Shanghai Show 2011 Highlights: Volvo Universe Concept

This is Volvo’s Concept Universe, the first indication of the company’s future direction under Chinese ownership.

Unveiled at the Shanghai motor show, the Universe is described by Volvo as a “large, luxurious sedan with a new human-centric design language that honours the beautiful lines of classic Volvo models”.

Stefan Jacoby, president and CEO of Volvo, said the Concept Universe offers “a sneak preview of what people can expect from our next top-of-the-line sedan”.

Peter Horbury, vice-president of design and in his second spell as Volvo’s creative director, said, “The Concept Universe is exceptionally refined, yet with all the simplistic assets that make Volvo champions of the uncomplicated. There is a growing appreciation for this ingenious blend of design and technology among modern luxury car buyers. We are convinced that our special brand of [human-centric] luxury has a great future.”

According to sources at Volvo, the Universe is not based on a specific platform because the company’s future platform and engine strategy is still being finalised. However, although the concept does not quite breach five metres in length, Volvo sources suggest that it would not need to be lengthened for the Chinese market because of “best-in-class interior space”.

Volvo exterior designer Jonathon Disley said the Universe project began 12 months ago, when the company’s designers were asked to consider a new form language for Volvo. They spent two days in the Volvo museum “looking at classic models from a different viewpoint”.

Disley said, “We felt that the most classic models were soft and voluptuous but also offered a sense of protection. We had a request from chairman Lee [boss of Geely, Volvo’s owners] to reflect the serenity in light when the sun is rising or setting and to create something intriguing in the nose.”

Work on this model took just 17 weeks from the final sketches to the clay model, which was milled directly from computer drawings.

Thanks to: Autocar