Volvo unveils new Concept Estate

After the Concept CoupéVolvo Concept CoupéSweden, 2014 > 2014 and the XC CoupéVolvo XC CoupéSweden, 2014 > 2014, VolvoVolvoSweden, 1927 > present49 models
4535 photos
6 videos
is ready to present the last of a series of three concepts in Geneva Motor Show, the Concept Estate. Together these prototypes indicate the future design of the new model range of the Swedish brand, starting with the XC90Volvo XC90Sweden, 2002 > present2 series
78 versions
112 photos
that will be launched in 2014.

The Concept EstateVolvo Concept EstateSweden, 2014 > 2014 is a three-door vehicle that is clearly linked to the two previous concepts created by Volvo design director, Thomas Ingenlath. The vehicle was inspired by the Volvo 1800 ES from the early 70s and could lead to future generations of the V60Volvo V60Sweden, 2010 > present301 versions
450 photos
and V70Volvo V70Sweden, 1996 > present3 series
200 versions
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.

The concept uses the new Volvo modular SPA platform and is powered by an engine whose details were not disclosed, but was chosen from the new range of Drive-E engines.

One of the highlights of the new concept is the unveiling of what may be the interior of future Volvo models. The brand has developed a clean and simple interior where the amount of buttons is significantly reduced. The center console now houses a large touch screen that lets you control the main functions, including infotainment and climate control, and it is also connected to the digital dashboard.

"The basic idea is to organize the controls and information in a perfectly intuitive and easy way for the user," says Ingenlath. "It's exactly where we expected to be, making the most pleasant, efficient and safe driving."

This new interior concept should be transported to the new XC90, with a similar large central touch screen to allow the control of most internal functions. This screen allows you to use similar functional gestures as those available in tablets. The display contains four sections on top of each other, with navigation on top and media, phone and climate control in the following positions. When you touch one of these areas it comes to the foreground and shows all available functions.

"It is normal for a tablet to compete for your attention, but a touchscreen in a car is very different," explains Volvo design chief Thomas Ingenlath. "The information must be clear and easy to use, without increasing the visual volume to the point of risking losing the attention on the road."

Other controls can be accessed through the steering wheel and information important to the driver is displayed on the dashboard.

The interior of the concept is fitted with four seats, with two rear folding in order to create a considerable cargo area. It was inspired in a Scandinavian living room with orange seatbelts and wool rugs together with natural wood, leather and metal finishes. The panoramic roof and two-spoke steering wheel are two further highlights of the interior design of the Concept Estate.