Morgan Eva GT, 2012

 

 

 

 

Morgan EvaGT, 2012

Company introduces a new concept for a sporting family, the Morgan Eva GT. The four seater Coupe takes its inspiration from the British sports saloons of the early 1950's. Among these were the Bristol 400 series and the Frazer Nash BMW 328. After the Second World War rationing forced designers to conserve and make the most of the materials at their disposal. 

However the pressure cooker of war had also led to an abundance of innovative engineering ideas. Steel was scarce so lightweight aluminium was used for bodywork. Smooth "in-line" straight six cylinder engines were fitted to give long distance comfort and reliability. Because the engineers had often worked on aircraft development during the war aerodynamics contributed to high but economical cruising speeds.

The Morgan Motor Company is the last survivor of these British sports car manufacturers. Of course the company is lucky enough to have 100 years of continuous success behind it and like Bristol and Frazer Nash; Morgan has a history of successful collaborations with German suppliers BMW, Siemens and Bosch. But Morgan also works with a number of young engineering companies in the United Kingdom and with world class British university research departments.

The new challenge is to make cars that are more efficient than any we have seen so far. The Morgan Motor Company is in a good position to respond to this challenge because the company is small and flexible with a proven track record of fast development cycles. It currently manufactures one of the greenest sports cars in the world, the Morgan Four Four Sport. Morgan achieves this result with the use of the new Ford 1.6 Sigma engine coupled with a light chassis. Morgan currently has a young well qualified technical team working towards a potential 5 engineering PHD's, who will make full use of research departments at the University of Oxford, Cranfield and Birmingham City to tap into a technical knowledge network to make more efficient cars. The team is helping to develop a high torque electric motor twice as powerful as others of the same weight and size and a powerful lithium phosphate battery with a higher charge density to achieve the most efficient performance for weight so far.
   
The dynamic team at Morgan has made a commitment from 2010 that they will bring out a new model every two years. The legendary sports car manufacturer will target new niches... electric sports cars, a fun weekend vehicle and the first of the new cars will be the Morgan Eva GT, a four seater Coupe aimed at young families, with a bit of drama or automotive theatre as we like to call it. This is a revolution for a car company famous for making the same car for 50 years!

The Chassis
The Morgan Eva GT makes full use of clever technologies that the Morgan Motor Company has developed to manufacture a lightweight car. Morgan was one of the first car companies to see the advantage of a bonded aluminium chassis to give rigidity but also to save weight. The Morgan Eva GT uses a further developed version of the bonded aluminium chassis of the Morgan Aero SuperSports, a chassis that successfully competes in International GT3 Sports Car Racing. Compliant with European and US safety approvals.

Bodywork
The Morgan was the first car company in 1995 to see the benefit of superformed aluminium, an aircraft technology, to manufacture smooth accurate body parts. Morgan Design have sculpted a new shape for the Morgan Eva GT that focuses on natural materials and understands their unique technical properties. Using computer technology in design and in manufacture to ensure accuracy, the parts are then hand finished to make sure they feel as good as they look. A perfect "A" class surface, minimal shut lines, hidden wipers, flush door handles and sharp creases deflect air over the surface of the car. The new Morgan Eva GT represents a philosophy of lightweight luxury that embraces authenticity, sustainability and innovation achieving its final result through the process of skilled craftsmanship.

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Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, 2011

 

 

 

Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, 2011

Lincoln introduced its first hybrid

The new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid - a premium midsize car poised to be the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America. Ford Motor Company - America's largest domestic hybrid seller - is further broadening its aggressive electrification plan and second generation of hybrid technology with the new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. The vehicle was revealed at the 2010 New York International Auto Show.

Lincoln's first-ever hybrid is expected to deliver at least 41 miles per gallon in the city when it goes on sale this fall.

The new premium midsize sedan hybrid joins Ford Motor Company's growing lineup of hybrids, including the Ford Fusion Hybrid - 2010 North American Car of the Year and America's most fuel-efficient sedan - plus the Ford Escape Hybrid and Mercury Milan and Mariner Hybrids.

Introduction of the new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid also complements Ford's aggressive global electrification plan. Ford is introducing five new electrified vehicles by 2013. They include the Transit Connect Electric in late 2010, the Focus Electric in 2011, a next-generation hybrid electric vehicle and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in 2012, followed by another next-generation hybrid electric vehicle in 2013.

The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid's projected fuel economy tops its nearest competitor - the 2010 Lexus HS 250h - by 6 mpg. It also trumps the Lexus with room for one more passenger and more standard luxury and segment-exclusive safety features.
The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid uses Ford's second-generation hybrid technology - the 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle I-4 hybrid engine, named one of Ward's 2010 "10 Best Engines."

The system combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver optimal performance and fuel economy.
Industry-leading fuel economy comes without sacrificing power. The combined gasoline engine and electric motor provide 191 net horsepower. Plus, the pure electric mode on the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid extends to 47 mph - compared with the Lexus HS 250h battery-only mode, which reaches just 25 mph.

More standard luxury
The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid comes standard with features and technologies that are either not offered on the Lexus HS 250h or are available only at an extra cost. They include:

Smart Gauge with Eco Guide - Ford's highly successful interactive technology provides real-time information to help drivers maximize fuel efficiency, and coaches drivers on how to optimize hybrid performance. Lincoln takes Smart Gauge to the next level of engagement by giving drivers enhanced positive feedback on long-term fuel efficiency and driving performance through the "growth" of virtual small flowers on the system's right-most screen. Lincoln's white flowers, inspired by apple blossoms, remain permanently unless long-term fuel economy is reset.

Lincoln SYNC - The Lincoln-exclusive voice-activated communications and entertainment system provides an omnipresent link to contacts and information. In addition to Bluetooth phone, audible text and MP3 player capabilities, Lincoln customers also can access Vehicle Health Report and 911 Assist.

10-Way Power Passenger Seat - This seat is designed to accommodate a diverse group of passengers. Memory functions enable passengers to fine-tune and recall their positions.
Power Driver Memory Seat Settings - The driver seat memory feature helps ensure personal seating preferences anytime, with the touch of a button.

Heated and Cooled Front Seats - This uniquely engineered system delivers exceptional heating and cooling comfort.
Genuine Wood Trim - In addition to their exquisite appearance, the Swirl Walnut and Olive Ash wood trims offered in the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid are eco-friendly as well. The veneers come from well-managed forests, as defined by strict environmental, social and economic standards, and from other rigorously controlled sources.

Reverse Sensing System - This system senses what drivers might not see behind them and relays an audible alert if objects are near, which increases in frequency the closer a driver gets.
Keyless Entry Keypad - This Lincoln-exclusive feature provides secure entry at a driver's fingertips. A personal combination holds a memory for driver preferences. So if an owner is out for a run and doesn't want to take the keys along, the vehicle can be opened with the touch of a few buttons.

Easy Fuel Capless Fuel-Filler - This Lincoln-exclusive feature uses an integrated spring-loaded flapper door to eliminate the need for a fuel tank screw cap. That means no more fumbling to remove and tighten the cap and less fuel odor on a driver's hands at the pump.

The Personal Safety System - A Lincoln-exclusive suite of seven protection technologies works together as a system to help protect vehicle occupants. The system includes dual-stage front air bags and an occupant classification system to sense whether the passenger seat is occupied. It tailors - or suppresses - air bag deployment to help provide an appropriate level of protection. It also features the Ford Belt-Minder system to remind front-seat occupants to buckle up.

MyKey - The Lincoln-exclusive feature allows parents to program a key to limit speed and audio volume to encourage teens to drive safer and improve fuel efficiency. It also encourages seat belt usage, provides earlier low-fuel warnings, and can be programmed to sound chimes at 45, 55 and 65 mph.
Integrated Spotter Mirrors - The traditional side-view mirrors are designed with a secondary convex spotter mirror in the top outer corner, which provides a view of the driver's blind spot. When traffic enters the driver's blind spot on either side of the vehicle, it is visible in the secondary convex mirror, alerting the driver of obstacles.

The Acoustic Laminated Windshield - This windshield features a layer of sound-absorbent vinyl sandwiched between two sheets of glass, which enhances interior quietness.
The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid also includes standard Bridge of Weir leather seats. The world-renowned luxury leather from Scotland is unembossed, allowing the natural beauty and character of the grain to shine through. The leather is milled for up to 12 hours to ensure a soft hand, and Bridge of Weir uses a chromium-free tanning process, which makes it easier to recycle.

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Ferrari FF, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ferrari FF, 2012

The 81st Geneva International Motor Show played host to the unveiling of two major new Prancing Horse innovations: the revolutionary Ferrari FF, a four-wheel drive four-seater with a mid-front V12 that is the most powerful and versatile car Ferrari has ever built, and the 458 Italia sporting the HELE (High Emotions Low Emissions) System which cuts CO2 to just 275 g/km.

The Ferrari FF makes its eagerly-waited debut at Geneva after the huge build-up of expectation and interest created by the client premiere at Maranello broadcast online by www.ferrari.com.

The revolutionary Ferrari FF offers a completely new take on the sporting Grand Tourer theme. It is not only the first Ferrari with four-wheel drive, but, more significantly, a model that hails a major break with the past, effortlessly melding extreme sports car performance with the versatility and usability of a genuine GT and boasting an extremely innovative design.

Every single area of the Ferrari FF brims with innovation, not least its engine, the first GDI V12 to be coupled with the seven-speed F1 dual-clutch gearbox. The V12 unleashes a massive 660 CV at 8,000 rpm, and maximum torque of 683 Nm at 6,000 rpm with 500 Nm already available at just 1,000 rpm. This ensures the performance figures of an extreme sports car, with the 0-100 km/h sprint covered in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 335 km/h. Efficiency has been significantly boosted too, with fuel consumption now standing at just 15.4 litres per 100 km, and CO2 emissions at 360 g/km, a 25 per cent reduction compared to the previous V12s, thanks in part to the HELE (High Emotions- Low Emissions) System which incorporates Stop&Start technology.

Uniquely, the Ferrari FF also guarantees this exceptional performance on terrain with very low grip coefficients, thanks to Ferrari's own patented 4RM four-wheel drive system. Torque is still delivered by the rear wheels, but the PTU (Power Transfer Unit) ensures that as much as is required is also transferred to the front wheels when necessary on low grip surfaces. The Ferrari FF intelligently distributes torque to each of the four wheels individually, thanks to the fact that all of the dynamic vehicle controls (E-Diff, F1-Trac and PTU) have been integrated into a single CPU.

Exceptional sporty driving is guaranteed by the Ferrari FF's transaxle architecture (mid-front engine with gearbox over the rear axle) and the positioning of 53% of weight to the rear of the car. Meticulous attention has been taken in lightening the engine (new castings), bodyshell (new aluminium alloys and production processes) and a host of other components. The interior has also been optimised through the use of high-tech materials such as magnesium for the seats. Third generation Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes are now lighter and longer-lasting, with virtually negligible wear during normal use on the road. All of these innovations have combined to produce an absolutely exceptional weight-power ratio of 2.7 kg/CV, a new benchmark for this kind of car.

Styled by Pininfarina, the Ferrari FF's lines effortlessly reflect its signature uncompromising balance of sportiness and versatility. It can comfortably accommodate four in its bodyhugging seats and spacious cabin. Its 450 litre boot can also be extended to 800 litres as the rear seats fold down independently. This means that the Ferrari FF offers more luggage space not only than any other car in its category, but also many four-door saloons, too.

Everything aboard the Ferrari FF is tailored specifically to the needs and tastes of its driver with a choice of six exclusive colours and the finest Frau aniline leathers specially treated to enhance their natural softness. The Ferrari FF's exceptional specification enhances in-car enjoyment for all four occupants. Features include a new rear-seat infotainment system with two screens for watching TV and DVD and a 1,280 Watt, 16-channel stereo system with Dolby Surround Sound.

The three FFs on the stand in Geneva are joined by a 458 Italia, the 599 GTB Fiorano with the sporting HGTE package, and a Ferrari California in an elegant Blu Tour De France finish. The Ferrari California is enjoying incredible sales success and is also the model subject to the widest range of personalisation requests in Ferrari's line-up. The V8- engined convertible is, in fact, very popular in the special two-tone and three-layer paint option finishes, with additional original interior combinations of materials, colours and trim solutions. The extraordinary success of the Ferrari California testifies to its enduring and sophisticated appeal.

 SPECIFICATIONS
    Engine

•         Type: 65° V12
•         Total displacement: 6262 cc
•         Bore/stroke: 94 mm x 75,2 mm
•         Maximum power: 660 CV @ 8000 rpm
•         Maximum torque: 683 Nm @ 6000 rpm
•         Specific power: 77 kW/litre - 105 CV/litre
•         Maximum revs: 8000 rpm
•         Compression ratio: 12,3:1

    Dimensions and weight

•         Length: 4907 mm
•         Width: 1953 mm
•         Height: 1379 mm
•         Wheelbase: 2990 mm
•         Front track: 1676 mm
•         Rear track: 1660 mm
•         Dry weight: 1790 kg
•         Kerb weight: 1880 kg
•         Weight distribution: 47% front, 53% rear
•         Boot volume: 450 litres
•         Fuel tank capacity: 91 litres

    Wheels and tyres

•         Front: 245/35 ZR 20 8,5 J x 20"
•         Rear: 295/35 ZR 20 10,5 J x 20"
•         Rear (winter tyres): 285/35 ZR20 10,5 J x 20"

    Brakes

•  Front: 398 mm x 38 mm
•  Wheel: 360 mm x 32 mm

    Transmission and gearbox

•  4RM (four-wheel drive) and 7-speed dual-clutch transmission

    Electronic controls

• 4RM control (full integration of all controls: F1-Trac, E-Diff and PTU); ABS/EBD; ESC

    Suspension

•  SCM3

    Performance

•  Top speed: 335 km/h
•  0-100 km/h: 3,7 sec
•  0-200 km/h: 11 sec
•  100-0 km/h: 35 m
•  Weight/power ratio: 2,7 kg/CV
•  Consumption and emissions (ECE + EUDC combined cycle)
•  Consumption: 15,4 l/100 km
•  CO2 emissions: 360 gr/km

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Cadillac XTS, 2013

 

 

 

 Cadillac XTS, 2013

Cadillac unveiled the 2013 XTS, the newest addition to the Cadillac luxury sedan lineup. It arrives in showrooms in U.S. and Canadian showrooms in the spring of 2012 as the most technologically advanced production car in the brand's history.

Larger than the CTS, the new Cadillac XTS delivers the space, elegance and dramatic presence that are Cadillac signatures, but with entirely new and technically advanced methods tuned for a new generation of luxury customers. It also marks the debut of CUE, a comprehensive in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and media control.

In addition to the CUE interface and connectivity, many other advanced technologies are integral to the new XTS. It will be the only luxury sedan with standard Magnetic Ride Control - the world's fastest-reacting suspension. Advanced technologies that enhance vision and safety surround the driver are available as well.

Positioned directly above the centerpiece CTS family in Cadillac's revamped lineup, the new XTS features a 3.6L direct injection engine and advanced all-wheel drive system, marking a shift to more-efficient performance in a spacious luxury sedan.

The Cadillac CUE is the highly customizable user interface that exemplifies XTS' blend of advanced technology and artistic design. The heart of CUE, which stands for Cadillac User Experience, is the standard eight-inch (203 mm) screen in the "center stack," the faceplate below the screen and the steering wheel controls. CUE features several industry firsts, including capacitive-touch control with proximity sensing, gesture recognition and natural voice recognition.

Exclusively on the Cadillac XTS is the 12.3-inch (312 mm) reconfigurable cluster. It features vibrant graphic displays showcased among four driver-selectable themes, ranging from minimal to extensive information. And while it is the prominent element in the XTS' technological character, CUE is part of a more comprehensive and layered approach to the car's design, capabilities and performance

Highlights:

• Advanced Haldex all-wheel-drive system with electronically controlled limited-slip differential
• Magnetic Ride Control, rear air suspension, HiPer Strut front suspension and Brembo brakes - all standard
• Standard 19-inch wheels and available 20-inch wheels
• Direct-injected 3.6L V-6 with lightweight features, including integrated cylinder heads/exhaust manifolds
• Capless fuel tank filler for easier, cleaner refueling
• Folding rear-seat headrests that enhance rear visibility
• Safety Alert Seat that vibrates to alert the driver
• Intervening braking system that lessens or avoids potential collisions
• Short- and long-range radar systems that support:
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Front and Rear Automatic Brakes
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

The XTS is also the most-spacious Cadillac sedan, tailored to provide roominess in a more efficiently sized package. It offers more interior space than midsize luxury cars and comparable to full-size sedans, particularly in the rear seat area, where it has 40 inches (1,016 mm) of rear legroom. That's about four more inches than the BMW 5-Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class and about two more inches than the Audi A6 - and comparable to larger sedans.

And when it comes to trunk space, the Cadillac XTS is in a league of its own, with 18 cubic feet (509 L), exceeding both midsize and full-size competitors - more than Audi A6 and A8 L, BMW 5 and 7-Series and Mercedes-Benz E- and S-Class. For XTS customers, the cargo advantage means room for five or more suitcases.

Technology reinforces multidimensional design philosophy
Cadillac XTS' hardware and spatial dimensions are the foundational layers that support a new level of surface detail. Multidimensional exterior and interior elements, including the grille, headlamps and new use of accent lighting, coalesce to give the XTS a presence and attention to detail unlike any Cadillac that has come before it.

CUE, for example, represents the pinnacle of technology, but it is being showcased using a subtle and sophisticated interior appearance that blends with other features to create a soothing and inviting feel. It offers more capability and driver-selectable choices than ever before from Cadillac, but the center stack has only seven buttons - three of them for the radio. That's less than half the controls found on the center stack of the typical car.

The Cadillac XTS' surface details also convey a more-nuanced design philosophy, with elements that support the long, sleek proportion that is a welcome return to Cadillac. They bring forward more beauty and elegance with refined, graceful forms and surfaces working harmoniously with established Cadillac linear forms. It is a car that conveys the next step in Cadillac form and surface vocabulary.

The Cadillac XTS Platinum is the fullest expression of Cadillac's multidimensional philosophy, with features that include a chrome/satin-chrome grille finish, polished 20-inch aluminum wheels with chrome inserts, a fully wrapped leather interior with Alcantara headliner and more.

Advanced safety features based on 'control and alert' strategy
The Cadillac XTS' technology fundamentally supports a suite of advanced safety features, based on a "control and alert" strategy that extends the vision around the vehicle. It helps drivers identify potential crash situations and even intervenes when a crash threat appears more imminent, employing layers of visual, audible and tactile (vibration) alerts, depending on the alert feature.

The alerts are designed to identify obstacles with sufficient warning to give the driver time to react and make changes - including the Safety Alert Seat feature, which vibrates either the left or right side of the driver's seat cushion, depending on the location of the impending concern. The intervening features, including Automatic Collision Preparation, take over if the threat appears more immediate or the driver does not react to previous alerts.

Two levels of control-and-alert protection are offered in the Cadillac XTS' Enhanced Safety Strategy (ESS) packages.

ESS I:

•     Lane Departure Warning
•     Forward Collision Alert
•     Safety Alert Seat
•     Side Blind Zone Alert
•     Rear Cross Traffic Alert
•     Reflected LED display.

ESS II includes all ESS I content plus:

•     Head-up display (in color)
•     Front and Rear Automatic Brake
•     Adaptive Cruise Control
•     Automatic Collision Preparation

The Cadillac XTS also features On Star as standard. On Star service also includes myCadillac and On Star myLink mobile apps, whichoffer vehicle information and On Star services via the customer's smartphone.

AWD and Magnetic Ride Control support new driving experience
A layered approach to the driving experience relies on new and established technologies - all rooted in a stiff structure. The body is infused with strategically placed ultra-high-strength steel for strength and crash protection and serves as the foundation for the advanced-chassis system.

A smart Haldex all-wheel-drive system - with an electronic limited-slip differential that splits torque between the rear wheels - complements an advanced HiPer Strut front suspension and standard Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping to give the Cadillac XTS sure-footed, confident and comfortable ride and handling traits. A linked H-arm design with "air springs" comprises the rear suspension.

HiPer Strut is based on the MacPherson strut front suspension design and features dual-path top mountings that separate the transfer of spring and damper loads to the body structure. It improves ride-and-handling characteristics in four significant ways:

• Provides more linear and communicative steering through improved camber control
• Improves impact isolation on bumps and rough surfaces
• Reduces torque steer
• Improves vehicle sensitivity to tire irregularities and wheel imbalance.

Magnetic Ride Control delivers precise body motion control - "reading" the road every millisecond and changing damping in just five milliseconds. It replaces conventional mechanical-valve shocks with electronically controlled shocks filled with a magneto-rheological fluid containing minute iron particles. Under the presence of magnetic charge, the iron particles align to provide damping resistance almost instantly.

Stabili Trak electronic stability control is standard on all models, along with variable-effort steering and Brembo four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel antilock brakes - all features that add important layers of control to the driving experience. Like Magnetic Ride Control, Cadillac XTS borrows the Brembo braking technology from Cadillac's V-Series of high performance models.

Horsepower for the Cadillac XTS comes from an advanced 3.6L V-6 that's known by its "LFX" engine code. It is rated at an estimated 300 horsepower (224 kW). Lightweight features help reduce overall weight for greater efficiency and a more favorable front-to-rear weight balance. Examples include a composite intake manifold saves approximately 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg) over the weight of a comparable aluminum intake and an integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold design that saves approximately 13 pounds (6 kg) per engine.

The LFX engine is matched with the Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission with tap-shift control.

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Wiesmann Roadster MF5, 2010

 

Wiesmann Roadster MF5, 2010

Delivering a top speed of 310 km/h, an exceptionally low power-to-weight ratio of only 2.7 kg/hp and completing the sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, the Wiesmann Roadster MF5 takes even experienced sports car enthusiasts into a brand new dimension of driving enjoyment. 

The exclusive open-air experience will only be available to a select few because the spirited power package is only being produced in a limited edition of 55. Equipped with a V10 engine, 507 HP and 520 Nm torque, it's a car that appeals to all the senses. The extendable rear wing of the roadster version plus perfectly balanced suspension set-up guarantees the necessary stability, even at top speeds.

The Wiesmann Roadster MF5 is available from a basic price of EUR 189,500.

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Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid, 2013

There are many hybrids on the market, but none of them can match the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid. The world's first diesel plug-in hybrid is Volvo Car Corporation's most technically advanced model ever - an electric car, hybrid car and muscle-car all rolled into one. At the mere touch of a button you can choose which of your three cars you want to drive at any given moment in time.

The production version of the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid will be launched in just one colour - Electric Silver. Sales get under way at the start of 2012, and the first cars will be built in the autumn of that year.

The first 1,000 units of the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid are only available in Electric Silver livery. The car is also distinguished by aero-designed 17-inch wheels, integrated exhaust tailpipes and a number of bodywork features in glossy black, such as the grille and the aerodynamic front spoiler.

The chromed "Plug-in Hybrid" emblem is found both on the lower part of the tailgate and in a smaller version on the front wings.

Exclusive interior
The interior of the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid has black leather upholstery with contrasting stitching and inlays of blue-grey wood. Other distinctive interior details include a leather-covered steering wheel, specially designed mats and a gear lever knob with integrated indicator.

The list of standard equipment includes features such as speed-dependent power steering, electrically adjustable driver's seat, parking sensors front and rear, Bluetooth phone link and Volvo on Call.
Standard is also the High Performance Multimedia DVD audio system with its 4x40 W amplifier, eight loudspeakers and seven-inch screen.

Smartphone app
The V60 Plug-in Hybrid is the first Volvo to be launched with an entirely digital Driver Information Monitor (DIM). The conventional analogue gauges have been replaced by a one-piece LED screen offering a large number of display options. The driver can choose which information to show via the car's menu setup.

It is also possible to communicate with the car via a mobile app. This gives the owner access to a number of smart functions such as air conditioning, pre-cooling and after-cooling, and a reminder to connect the charge cable if this has not been done by a predetermined time.

The first Volvo with the D6 badge
On the car's tailgate there is a D6 badge. The reason is that the combined performance of the five-cylinder turbodiesel and electric motor puts the car firmly within the same horsepower range as the petrol powered T6.
The front wheels of the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid are powered by a five-cylinder 2.4-litre turbodiesel producing 215 hp and maximum torque is 440 Nm. The car has a six-speed automatic transmission.

The rear axle is powered by an electric motor producing 70 horsepower. The electric motor is supplied with power from an 11.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack installed under the floor of the load compartment.
The sophisticated and exceptionally compact battery pack consists of 10 modules each containing 20 cells. An integrated computer monitors the system and compares temperature and charge level in each of the 200 cells. The battery pack also has an integrated water-cooling system driven by the car's climate unit.

Three driving modes - three cars in one
The driver selects the required driving mode via three buttons that give the car three entirely different temperaments: Pure, Hybrid or Power.

In Pure mode the car is powered solely by its electric motor as much as possible. If the battery pack has been recharged with electricity from renewable sources, its range is up to 50 kilometres and its carbon dioxide emissions are zero. The electric range varies with terrain, climate and driving style.

Hybrid is the standard setting whenever the car is started. The diesel engine and electric motor cooperate to ensure optimal balance between driving pleasure and environmental footprint. CO2 emission (NEDC, mixed driving cycle for certification) is 49g/km, corresponding to diesel consumption of 1.9l/100km. The car has a total range of up to 1,000km.

In Power mode the technology is optimised to give the car the maximum possible power. The diesel engine and electric motor have a total power output of 215+70 horsepower and maximum torque of 440+200Nm. The electric motor's lightning-quick torque delivery contributes to the car's acceleration from 0 to 100km/h in 6.2 seconds.

Save battery power for later
The driver can choose to save battery power in order to drive on pure electricity later on, for instance in an urban green zone or in the heart of a city.

When Save is activated, the on-board system ensures that there is always sufficient charge for driving later in Pure mode. If necessary, the high-tension generator will charge the battery pack so there is sufficient capacity for driving in Pure mode.
The aim is that the Save mode should ensure there is sufficient battery power for about 20 kilometres of driving on electricity alone.

Charge at home - cooling or heating in advance
The Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid can be recharged from a regular power outlet (230V/6A, 10A or 16A) at home or in a parking lot. Recharging time varies with amperage. A full charge with 10A takes 4.5 hours. This is cut to 3.5 hours with 16A, while a 6A charge takes 7.5 hours.

It is also possible while recharging the car to heat or cool the passenger compartment to provide a more comfortable start of your journey. This also means that more battery power is used for actually propelling the car.
The pre-conditioning function can also cool the batteries. The ideal operating temperature for the battery pack is 20-30°C. This means that cooling prior to driving is very important in order to maximise battery charge and thus also range.

The Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid has two heating systems. In electric mode the car uses a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) air heater. The car also has a diesel-powered heater.

Better pulling power with four-wheel drive (AWD)
Pressing the AWD button activates the electrical four-wheel drive. Instead of the mechanical power transfer of conventional four-wheel drive, the central control unit distributes power between the diesel-driven front wheels and the electrically-driven rear axle. The electric four-wheel drive system has been designed to provide better grip when starting and when driving on slippery roads, for instance in snow or mud.

However, owing to the electric motor's lower power, torque to the rear wheels is limited and four-wheel drive is active up to 120 km/h.
When four-wheel drive is activated, the diesel engine operates continuously and the generator ensures that the charge level in the battery pack is sufficient to supply the rear axle with the necessary power.
Since electric four-wheel drive is only activated by the driver when necessary, it is more economical than conventional permanent four-wheel drive.

2-stage braking system
A two-stage braking system is yet another smart feature of the Volvo Plug-in Hybrid. When the driver presses the brake pedal, the system starts braking the rear axle's electric motor. This braking energy is then used to recharge the car's battery pack.
The mechanical brakes are activated only when the situation requires more braking power than the rear axle can provide.
Immense interest suggests that the first series of the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid will sell out quickly

The Volvo Car Corporation is on the threshold of introducing the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid - a rechargeable diesel hybrid car that is the company's most technically advanced model ever.

Production gets under way in November 2012 and the first model year's volume is limited to 1,000 cars. They will be offered with Pure Limited specifications, including the highest trim level Summum.
The indicative price of the world's first plug-in hybrid with diesel engine is starting at EUR 57,000 depending on market.

Nordic region the biggest market
After the initial batch of 1,000 cars for model year 2013, production of the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid will increase to 4,000-6,000 cars as of model year 2014.

About 30 per cent of total volume will go to Sweden and the other Nordic countries. Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, France, the Netherlands and Britain will have a share of between 5 and 15 per cent each.

Electrifying temporary presence
In addition to other venues, the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid will be launched through "electrifying" temporary presence in high profile venues. They will appear in places such as Stockholm, Berlin and London. The idea is that customers should meet the car where they feel most at home.

Surveys reveal that the main target group for the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid includes customers that are eager to adopt unique new technology. The car is ideal for customers who want superior environmental performance without compromising any of the established qualities in a contemporary luxury car.
Volvo Car Corporation expects that 80 per cent of total sales will be in the form of company cars.

Starter pack from Vattenfall included
Vattenfall offers the owners of this new car a starter pack including 100 per cent renewable electricity generated by Vattenfall´s own production facilities and a wall-mounted charging station. The starter pack will be provided in Vattenfall's core markets Sweden, Germany and Netherlands.

Superior technology
From the environmental viewpoint the plug-in hybrid is totally superior to the first generation of hybrid cars, which in principle reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 15 per cent compared with the same model without hybrid power.
In hybrid mode, the large rechargeable battery pack in the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid gives 65 per cent lower carbon dioxide emissions than a conventional V60 with the same diesel engine: 49 g/km. This corresponds to fuel consumption of just 1.9 litres/100 km.

At the touch of a button the driver can choose to cover up to 50 kilometres on pure electric power - or utilise the combined capacity of the diesel engine and electric motor to create a veritable driving machine that offers 215+70 horsepower and 440+200 Nm of torque.

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