Many will label the sumptuously elegant Volvo Concept Coupé as a modern tribute to the P1800 of the '60s and although it is technically a design study with no confirmed production plans behind it, it does pave the way for a more stylish Volvo future.
It is the work of Volvo's new Senior Vice President of Design, Thomas Ingenlath, who describes Volvo's new direction as such:
“In my opinion, Volvo design has always had a certain authority. We aim to extend this calm, intelligent and strong side of our brand with a greater potency, modernity and expressiveness. Concept Coupé clearly expresses this direction.”
In this case authority and elegance are ensured by a long bonnet, low stance, bow-shaped beltline and five-spoke 21-inch wheels.
At the front, distinctive T-shaped DRL headlight guides point towards a large 'floating' grille and both design elements are set to become a signature feature on future Volvos.
The interior abounds with handcrafted touches such as the sparkling crystal gear lever, leather instrument panel and inlays hewn from naturally aged wood.
Taking the next step in man-machine interaction, the cabin includes a large portrait touch-screen that interacts with an adaptive digital display and head-up display in front of the driver.
V8 PERFORMANCE
The concept also promises V8-like performance from its hybrid drivetrain that mates a turbocharged and supercharged 2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine to a rear-mounted electric motor for total system outputs in the region of 300kW and 600Nm.
According to Volvo, this is the first of three concept cars that will reveal the design possibilities created by Volvo's new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform.
The first SPA vehicle will be the new XC90 that's due in 2014, and no doubt to be followed by a new sedan and perhaps even a sleek two-door like the Concept Coupé. Come on Volvo, you know you want to...
“The new Volvo Concept Coupé reveals how we could shape our cars from now on. Free from the superficial surface excitement of other car brands, we add emotional value to the Volvo brand with the calm, confident beauty that is the hallmark of Scandinavian design,” Ingenlath added.