VW T-ROC concept set to Rock Geneva

Meet the T-ROC, the latest Volkswagen SUV concept, which is making its debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The T-ROC offers a glimpse at future Volkswagen SUVs: it is smaller than the Tiguan, but larger than the Taigun SUV concept, which is in the development phase.

The two-door, four-seat T-ROC combines the agility of an all-wheel-drive SUV with the airiness of a convertible, thanks to its roof design.  The middle section of the roof – made from a carbon composite – can be removed in two halves, each of which can then be stored in the boot. 

The T-ROC concept measures 4,179 mm long and 1,831 mm wide, making it around 200 mm shorter than a Tiguan, and around 300 mm longer than the Taigun concept.  At 1,501 mm tall it sits around 200 mm lower than a Tiguan.  

Like the latest Golf, the T-ROC is based on the modular transverse matrix (MQB) platform, and thanks to its lightweight design, it weighs just 1,420 kg.  The vehicle’s proportions are distinguished by relatively short overhangs (front: 811 mm, rear: 772 mm) and large track relative to its body width of 1,578 mm (front) and 1,564 mm (rear).  The wheelbase is 2,595 mm.  The wheels are 19-inch alloys with 245/45 tyres.

The team at Volkswagen Design, led by Walter de Silva and Klaus Bischoff, have advanced the brand’s ‘SUV DNA’ in the T-ROC, while also preserving its history.  Immediately striking are the 3D radiator grille with large honeycomb-shaped opening, LED headlights, daytime running lights and indicators and prominent round headlamp modules which hark back to the Karmann Ghia Type 34.  At the rear, LED elements also abound, with strong, purposeful design.

Both at the front and the back, the T-ROC makes use of integrated cameras which project images when driving off-road into the cabin via a tablet mounted in the centre console.  This allows the driver to see potholes or large stones which could damage the car – or certainly hinder progress.

Power for the T-ROC is provided by a high-torque (380 Nm from 1,750 rpm) and fuel-efficient 184 PS turbodiesel engine connected via a newly developed seven-speed DSG gearbox to a 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system.  This engine will be familiar to drivers of the new Golf GTD.  Top speed is 130 mph in this concept car, with zero to 62 mph in 6.9 seconds.  The T-ROC is predicted to have a combined fuel consumption of 4.9l/100km (57.6 mpg), equating to 129 g/km of carbon dioxide.

Three driving modes – ‘Street’, ‘Offroad’ and ‘Snow’ – are selectable at the turn of a wheel on the DSG gear-shift grip.  Parameters of the running gear, engine-gearbox unit and hill start and hill descent assist systems are modified depending on the mode selected.  The active mode is shown in a pop-up window in the fully digital instrument cluster.  

In addition to the digital cluster, the T-ROC also features a 12.3 inch colour display tablet which is firmly locked into the dashboard with the upper two-thirds of the display extending out from the dashboard.  The multi-touch display (which reacts to finger gestures) is user-configurable, and the range of colours used and information displayed on the tablet change according to the driving mode selected. 

The T-ROC’s name is derived from ‘T’ as a reference to the names of current and future Volkswagen SUVs such as the Taigun, Tiguan and Touareg, and ‘ROC’ meaning the all-wheel-drive car is as at home on ‘rocky’ trails as on tarmac.

F-Type and Range Rover Sport win at UK Car of the Year awards

JAGUAR

• Jaguar F-TYPE convertible is named ‘Best Open Top Car’ at inaugural UK Car of the Year Awards (UKCOTY)
• UKCOTY judging panel includes 27 of the most respected motoring journalists in the UK
• More than 100 new cars assessed in judging process for 2014 awards

Jaguar today celebrates another 2014 honour for the F-TYPE convertible sports car, this time in the shape of the ‘Best Open Top Car’ accolade awarded by the UK Car of the Year panel of judges. 

This UKCOTY award follows honours from all corners of the globe for the F-TYPE, and is awarded by a panel comprising some of the most respected automotive journalists in Britain. Tom Ford of BBC Top Gear Magazine, Autocar contributor Richard Bremner, and The Sun Motoring Editor Ken Gibson feature in a group of experts responsible for choosing the new Jaguar sports car, over strong contenders from the likes of Audi, BMW and Lotus.

UK Car of the Year committee Managing Director John Challen said: “The generations of drivers that missed out on the E-type have a new icon in the F-TYPE. The F-TYPE has succeeded in capturing the best elements of a classic - in a modern day package.”

BBC Top Gear Magazine’s* Tom Ford remarked: “Stunning looks, raucous soundtrack, utterly outrageous V8 version.  And it’s a Jaguar.”

Ken Gibson, The Sun Motoring Editor said: “The F-TYPE convertible is a truly worthy successor to the E-type.  Jaguar once again has a genuine sports car roadster.” 

LAND ROVER

The all-new Range Rover Sport has been voted the UK’s ‘Best 4x4 Car’ by the judges at the UK Car of the Year Awards 2014.

Exploiting Land Rover's breakthrough lightweight suspension design and innovative dynamic chassis technologies, the Sport's all-new, first-in-class aluminium architecture achieves a weight saving of up to 420kg.  Priced from £51,550, the Range Rover Sport provides a unique blend of transformational on-road dynamics with world's best all-terrain performance granting unrivalled breadth of capability.

The new Range Rover Sport is available with a selection of V6 and V8 engines with CO₂ emissions as low as 194g/km on a combined cycle at 38.7mpg.  Alternatively, the 5.0L V8 engine derivative develops 510BHP, 625Nm of torque and sprints from 0-62mph in 5.3s.  Customers have a choice of three equipment levels (HSE, HSE Dynamic and Autobiography Dynamic), with a fourth derivative (SE on TDV6 models) to be available from early 2014.  An extensive choice of colours, finishes and details will enable customers to create the ultimate bespoke SUV.

The UK Car of the Year is an independent set of awards designed to highlight and advise on the best new cars on the market in the UK.  The awards are designed specifically for UK customers, with all road tests taking place on UK roads.

The panel of 27 professional journalist judges comprises some of the most respected names in motoring journalism who geographically represent the UK as a whole.  The judging panel has a combined reach of more than 80 million readers per month and aim to offer impartial advice to UK car buyers through both The UK Car of the Year awards website and their various publications.

Ken Gibson, Motoring Editor of The Sun, said: "At last the Sport lives up to its name, drives really well on road and remains unbeatable off road. No longer in the shadow of its big brother.” Tim Pollard, editor for MSN Cars added: "A brilliant multi-purpose vehicle: a combined luxury cruiser, mud-plugger, stylish town plaything and family transport,” while Tom Ford, contributing editor for Top Gear magazine, commented: “A Range Rover Sport finally worthy of the name.  Rounds off an extremely compelling Range Rover range.”

BMW i3 crowned UK Car of the Year - REALLY ? who does this voting !!!!!

• New range-extender model impresses judges with its design, performance and innovation
• BMW and Skoda win two categories each at inaugural awards
• Victories for Citroën, Porsche, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Jaguar and Land Rover
• More than 100 new cars assessed by 27 expert judges
• 11 category winners produce one overall champion

The BMW i3 has lifted the top prize at the first-ever UK Car of the Year Awards. It triumphed in the Best Supermini category before the new BMW went on to scoop the title of UK Car of the Year 2014.

The awards, which include 11 categories and one overall prize, are voted for by 27 of the most respected motoring journalists in the UK. Each is an expert in their field to ensure UK consumers get the best advice possible, whichever type of car they are considering buying.

In the overall vote, which featured the likes of the Porsche Cayman, Range Rover Sport, BMW 5 Series, Citroen C4 Grand Picasso and Audi A3, almost half of the 27-strong judging panel chose the i3.

“Alternative vehicles have made a big impression on UK car buyers in recent years, and the i3 takes things to the next level,” said John Challen, Managing Director of UK Car of the Year Awards, and Editor of ukcoty.co.uk. “It might be a new direction for BMW, but the i3 successfully retains the driving characteristics from BMW’s more established models.”

Uwe Dreher, BMW UK Marketing Director, commented on the win: “For the BMW i3 to be voted as the first-ever UK Car of the Year is real testament to the years of research and development that have gone into making BMW’s first electric production car. The BMW i3 has pushed the boundaries in every way from sustainable production, to its unique construction and revolutionary ownership proposition. The judging panel clearly recognised this and we are delighted to be given such an independent accolade.”

Elsewhere, praise came from BBC Top Gear’s Tom Ford, who commented: “i3 moves the game on for urban and inter-urban transport. It is clever, exciting, useful and desirable.”

Tim Pollard, from MSN, said that i3 “Shows that small cars can be at the cutting edge of technology – and that EVs can be desirable,” while Press Association’s Matt Joy believes that the new BMW “makes the fundamental leap for the electric car, namely that it is desirable for reasons other than its eco credentials.”

Runner-up to the BMW i3 for the UK Car of the Year 2014 prize was the Ford Fiesta ST, which won the Best Performance Car category. Joint third place went to the Skoda Octavia Estate and Jaguar F-type, which topped the Best Estate and Best Open Top Car categories respectively.

Full list of UK Car of the Year Awards 2014 winners:

Best Supermini – BMW i3
Best Small Hatch – Audi A3
Best Family Car – Skoda Octavia
Best Executive Car – BMW 5 Series
Best Luxury Car – Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Best Estate Car – Skoda Octavia Estate
Best MPV – Citroën C4 Grand Picasso
Best 4x4 – Range Rover Sport
Best Coupé – Porsche Cayman
Best Open Top Car – Jaguar F-type
Best Performance Car – Ford Fiesta ST

Alfa Romeo MiTo and Giulietta “Quadrifoglio Verde" to be unveiled at Geneva.

• High-performance models of the 2014 Alfa MiTo and Giulietta ranges to be named 'Quadrifoglio Verde', the Italian translation of ‘Cloverleaf’
• The new Alfa Giulietta QV is powered by same all-aluminium, 240hp, turbo-charged petrol engine and advanced six-speed TCT transmission as the Alfa Romeo 4C supercar
• Exterior Alfa Giulietta revisions include carbon fibre front spoiler, side skirts, door mirrors and rear spoiler - plus new alloy wheels with a burnished anthracite finish
• Interior upgrades include new leather and Alcantara® seats with one-piece backrests, as well as a new steering wheel and new QV instruments
• Alfa MiTo QV is powered by a new 170hp 1.4-litre MultiAir turbo engine with Alfa TCT as standard for improved performance and emissions
• Interior revisions include contrasting white and green stitching, new QV instruments and a “Competizione” carbon-look dashboard
• New Matte Magnesio Grey body colour created for limited-run “Launch Edition” available on both models

The new, high-performance Alfa Romeo MiTo and Giulietta 'Quadrifoglio Verde' models will make their world debut at the Geneva Motor Show on March 4^th 2014, combining 90 years of 'Quadrifoglio Verde' heritage with the very best of Alfa Romeo's DNA - as optimised by the astounding Alfa Romeo 4C supercar.

Indeed, the new Alfa Giulietta Quadrifoglio Verde shares its heart with the Alfa Romeo 4C – under the bonnet beats the same 1750 turbo-charged petrol engine - complete with direct-injection; dual variable valve timing; an anti-lag, turbo scavenging control system and a lightweight aluminium engine block - which delivers a maximum output of 240hp at 6,000rpm and an impressive 250lb ft (340Nm) of torque between 2,100 and 4,000 rpm, with 80 percent available from only 1,800 rpm. The new Alfa Giulietta QV accelerates from 0 to 60mph in just 6.6 seconds, 0.2 seconds quicker than the current car, and can reach149mph where legally permitted.

The new 1750 turbo petrol engine is combined with the state-of-the-art ALFA TCT six-speed, twin dry-clutch transmission which offers fully automatic or sequential manual shifting, either via the gear lever or paddle shifters mounted on the steering-wheel. As with all Alfa Romeos, the driver can also customise the vehicle characteristics using the Alfa D.N.A. driving mode selector which adjusts throttle response, engine performance, transmission responsiveness (and shift patterns in auto mode) as well as the level of power steering assistance. To further enhance the QV driving experience, Alfa Romeo has also developed a new fuel intake unit to ensure the engine produces the sort of sound that is expected of the sportiest Alfa Giulietta in the range.

This impressive level of performance has not been at the expense of the environment: thanks to multiple injection control and advanced anti-friction and energy loss reduction systems, the emissions of the 'Quadrifoglio Verde' meet the strict Euro 6 regulations.

Externally, the new Quadrifoglio Verde is distinguished by the glossy anthracite finish on the door mirror, front grille, door handles and fog light bezels, and it is also equipped with large exhaust tail pipes, new anthracite alloy rims, side skirts, a rear spoiler and red, four-piston Brembo® brake callipers with 320mm front discs. And, of course, there’s the legendary Quadrifoglio Verde emblem on the front wings, like so many of its illustrious predecessors.

Interior highlights include the new leather and Alcantara wraparound sports seats with one-piece backrests; new instruments (complete with the QV logo) and a new steering wheel with leather trim and contrasting white stitching. The gear lever boot and the handbrake lever are also leather wrapped with white and green stitching while aluminium sport pedals, black roof lining and special floor mats complete the new QV’s upgrades. As with all versions of the 2014 Alfa Giulietta, standard equipment includes the Uconnect™ touch-screen multimedia system and Bluetooth connectivity.

To mark the launch, Alfa Romeo is introducing a special Launch Edition Giulietta Quadrifoglio Verde. With a limited run of just 500 vehicles, 100 of which are destined for the UK market, the Alfa Giulietta QV Launch Edition is further enhanced with carbon spoilers, front and rear sports air dams and side skirts, as well as 18" alloy wheels with a five-hole design and a burnished anthracite finish. The Alfa Giulietta Quadrifoglio Verde Launch Edition will be available in Alfa Red or in Competizione Red (triple coat) as well as the exclusive Matte Magnesio Grey.

The new Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde is also revised for 2014 and, as with the Alfa Giulietta, it is the powertrain that undergoes the most significant changes: Under the bonnet there’s a new 1.4-litre MultiAir Turbo Petrol engine which develops 170hp at 5,500 rpm and up to 250 Nm at 2,500rpm in Sport mode (230Nm in Natural or All-weather modes). The MultiAir electrohydraulic valve management system reduces fuel consumption by controlling intake air directly via the inlet valves (without using the throttle) and reduces polluting emissions by using extremely precise combustion control.  

In place of the six-speed manual gearbox fitted to the previous-generation model, Alfa Romeo’s latest-generation, six-speed, double dry-clutch ALFA TCT transmission is now fitted as standard to the 2014 Alfa MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde. As in the Alfa Giulietta, the new transmission offers automatic or sequential manual shifting, either via the gear lever or steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters, and can be reconfigured for different driving scenarios via the Alfa D.N.A. driving mode selector, which also tunes throttle response, engine performance, power steering assistance and the suspension depending on the mode.

As a result of these new technologies, the 2014 Alfa MiTo QV returns 52.3mpg on the official combined fuel cycle and its CO₂ emissions are just 124g/km (an improvement of 10 and 11 percent respectively). These figures are all more impressive when you consider that this is a car that is capable of dispatching the 0-62mph sprint in just 7.3 seconds and has a top speed of 136mph.

External enhancements for the 2014 MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde include a burnished finish for exterior detailing, twin chrome exhaust tailpipes, a rear spoiler, sports rear bumper, 17" alloy wheels and Brembo® brake callipers finished in red. Once again, the Quadrifoglio Verde emblems take pride of place on the front wings.

Inside, the new Alfa MiTo QV is equipped with air conditioning, cruise control, new QV instruments, a sports steering wheel with white stitching and a gear-lever boot and handbrake lever both embellished with white and green stitching. The new Uconnect™ infotainment system is also standard, featuring a five-inch colour touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity. Sabelt® seats with wraparound carbon fibre backrests and the Alfa Romeo logo embossed into the Alcantara® material are optional.

New QV Line

As the Quadrifoglio Verde is launched, new Alfa MiTo and Giulietta QV Line models will also be added to the ranges. QV Line model will capture the essence of the Quadrifoglio Verde but will be offered across a broader range of engines. The availability and final specification of QV Line models in the UK will be announced at a later date.

About Quadrifoglio Verde:

The Quadrifoglio Verde has been a symbol of Italian motor racing since 1923 when Ugo Sivocci first decided to race in the Targa Florio with this symbol painted on the bonnet of his ‘RL’ for good luck. Sivocci completed the 268 mile race of the Madonìe Circuit (four laps of 67 miles each) at an average of 36.7mph, a speed which was amazing at the time given the hazards and quality of the road surface.

Soon the other drivers of the Alfa Romeo team – including Enzo Ferrari, Antonio Ascari and Giulio Ramponi – decided to adopt the lucky Quadrifoglio Verde as well. From this moment on, the Quadrifoglio Verde became the symbol of Alfa Romeo race cars and was later also used on special series production models to demonstrate the continuity between Alfa Romeo’s “touring” cars and those designed for competition.

It was the Quadrifoglio Verde that stood out against the dark red of Brilli Peri’s ‘P2’ when he won the first “World Car Racing Championship” at Monza in 1925, the first of the five world titles that Alfa Romeo won. By the end of the 1920s, it was the Quadrifoglio Verde that distinguished the factory Alfa Romeos from those managed by the “Scuderia Ferrari”, with its prancing horse symbol, on the racetrack.

In 1950 and 1951, Giuseppe "Nino" Farina and Juan Manuel Fangio won the first two Formula 1 World Championships on board the Alfa Romeos 158 and 159 respectively, the renowned "Alfettas." In the 1960s, the Quadrifoglio Verde was used for the ready-to-race version of the “Giulia” and the “TI Super”, and then in combination with the light-blue Autodelta triangle on models ranging from the "GTA" to the "33 TT 12" and "33 SC 12" which were entered in the World Championship in 1975 and in 1977. The success of the Quadrifoglio Verde continued in touring car racing, culminating in resounding victory in the DTM with the 155 V6 Ti in 1993, the British Touring Car Championship in 1994 with the revolutionary 155 TS and a long series of wins by the 156 Superturismo between 1998 and 2004.

Amongst production Alfa Romeos, the Quadrifoglio Verde symbol sometimes appeared on the body without appearing in the official name: Giulia TI Super , Giulia Sprint GT Veloce, 1750 GT Veloce (which features a gold-coloured QV on its rear buttresses) and Alfasud Sprint are all examples of such models. From the eighties onwards, however, the Quadrifoglio Verde began to appear in the vehicle names, such as the Alfasud ti Quadrifoglio Verde, Sprint Quadrifoglio Verde, various versions of the 33 Quadrifoglio Verde, 75 Quadrifoglio Verde, Spider 2.0 Quadrifoglio Verde, 164 Quadrifoglio Verde and 145 Quadrifoglio Verde.

After a brief hiatus in the early part of century, the Quadrifoglio Verde returned on the highest-performance versions of the Alfa MiTo in 2008 and Alfa Giulietta in 2010. For 2014, the Quadrifoglio Verde name is officially revived, thus renewing the passion shared by millions of Alfisti all over the world and beginning a new chapter in the history of the legendary Alfa Romeo brand and the storied Quadrifoglio Verde moniker.

Introducing the NEW Citroen C1 Swiss & Me concept car.

• New Citroën C1 Swiss & Me concept to be unveiled at 84th Geneva Motor Show
• Illustrates personalisation possibilities & pays homage to the city of Geneva
• New Citroën C1 Swiss & Me features a Swiss flag on its roof & a striking two-tone colour scheme

The 84th Geneva Motor Show will see Citroën unveil the C1 Swiss & Me, a bold and unique concept version of the New Citroën C1 city car.

Bearing the colours of the Swiss flag and paying homage to the city of Geneva – the venue for its worldpremiere – the C1 Swiss & Me perfectly demonstrates the personalisation possibilities of the New Citroën C1.

An emblematic and cosmopolitan city, Geneva boasts a high quality of lifestyle and is the ideal setting for this new model, which adopts a playful approach to the constraints of city driving.

Particular work has gone into the concept car’s styling and colour scheme; a bi-tone effect blends a red roof, featuring the Swiss flag, and a pearl white body. Splashes of red, including red wing mirrors, further complement the exterior styling of the C1 Swiss & Me concept.

The concept car also emphasises the on-road performance of the New Citroën C1, with wing extensions, large wheels and a central tailpipe.

The New Citroën C1 Swiss & Me concept car underlines the spirit of the New Citroën C1 – an everyday companion with a resourceful and irreverent approach to the urban jungle

Pricing and Specs announced for new McLaren 650S prior to Geneva launch.

• New McLaren 650S Coupe can accelerate 0-200km/h (0-124mph) in just 8.4 seconds
• Faster than rival ‘stripped out’ road racers, yet offers far superior comfort, refinement and equipment
• Available in Coupe and Spider variants from launch priced from £195,250 (RRP on the road)

As the first example of the McLaren 650S rolled off the line at the state-of-the-art McLaren Production Centre in Woking, McLaren Automotive has released performance numbers and confirmed pricing ahead of the global debut at the 84^th International Geneva Motor Show.

The latest addition to the McLaren range accelerates to 100km/h (62mph) from rest in just 3.0 seconds, and can reach 200km/h (124mph) in just 8.4 seconds. The standing quarter mile (400m) takes 10.5 seconds, and top speed is 333 km/h (207 mph). This performance puts the latest model from McLaren a full second quicker than the iconic McLaren F1 road car to 200 km/h, and 0.6 sec faster over the standing quarter mile, underlining its performance focus. This represents a sprint time to 200 km/h more than half a second quicker than the rapid 12C, which continues in production. Pricing for the McLaren 650S Coupe starts at £195,250, with the 650S Spider starting at £215,250.

Optimised aerodynamics ensure that the performance of the McLaren 650S is accessible and increases driver engagement. Enhanced handling, high-speed balance and steering turn-in result from improved levels of downforce. ‘Driving excitement is at the absolute heart of the McLaren 650S,’ explains Mike Flewitt, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Automotive. ‘Of course the performance figures are important, and they help boost excitement. But they’re only part of the story. This is a car that’s about feel as well as measurement.’

Despite these impressive performance figures, more akin to a stripped out road racer, the McLaren 650S boasts a high level of luxury specification. Carbon ceramic brakes sit behind unique ‘650’ lightweight alloy wheels shod with Pirelli P Zero™ Corsa tyres, IRIS satellite navigation with Bluetooth telephony, DAB digital radio in Europe (SIRIUS satellite radio in North America), wireless tethering, audio streaming and voice control are all fitted as standard, and the cabin is trimmed in Alcantara. Enhanced levels of optional specification are also offered, including fixed-back carbon racing seats, based on the lightweight design found in the McLaren P1™, an electric steering column adjustment assists ingress and egress, a rear parking camera and extended carbon fibre throughout the interior.

The ‘no compromise’ McLaren 650S also performs efficiently, returning 24.2 mpg (11.7 l/100 km) on the EU combined cycle, and a CO₂ figure of 275 g/km making it one of the most efficient models in class. This is testament to the drive by McLaren for continued improvement and class-leading efficiency.

‘The McLaren 650S represents 50 years of road and racing car know-how,’ comments Mike Flewitt.‘Everything we’ve learnt from the 12C and the McLaren P1™ has gone into this car, creating a car with the widest breadth of capabilities of any production supercar. It’s also a new benchmark in pure driving excitement.’

The McLaren 650S Coupe and Spider make their global debuts on Stand 1240, Hall 1 at 12.00 CET (11.00 GMT) on Tuesday, 4 March 2014 at the 84th International Geneva Motor Show.

TECHNICAL AND PERFORMANCE DATA

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION– McLaren 650S COUPE

Drivetrain Layout	Longitudinal Mid-Engine, RWD	Track, F/R (mm)	1656 / 1583
Engine Configuration	V8 Twin Turbo / 3799cc	Length (mm)	4512
Engine PS / rpm	650 / 7250	Width (mm)	2093
Torque Nm / rpm	678 / 6000	Height (mm)	1199
Transmission	7 Speed SSG	Dry Weight (kg / lbs)	1330 / 2932
Body Structure	Carbon Fibre MonoCell with   Aluminium Front and Rear Frames	Active Aerodynamics	McLaren Airbrake
Wheelbase (mm)	2670	Suspension	ProActive Chassis Control
Brakes	Carbon Ceramic Discs with Forged Aluminium Hubs (F 394mm/R 380mm)	ProActive Chassis Control modes	Normal / Sport / Track
Tyres (F/R)	Pirelli P Zero Corsa 235/35 R19 / Pirelli P Zero Corsa 305/30 R20	Powertrain Modes	Winter / Normal / Sport / Track
Wheel Sizes (F/R)	19” x 8.5”J / 20” x 11” J

PERFORMANCE DATA

Efficiency	CO2	275 g/km
	Fuel consumption (combined)	24.2 mpg
	Power to weight (with lightweight options)	500 PS (493 bhp) /tonne
	CO2/power	0.42 g/km per PS
Speed	Maximum speed (650S Spider)	333 km/h (207 mph)
Acceleration	0-100 kph (62 mph)	3.0 s*
	0-200 kph (124 mph)	8.4 s*
	0-300 kph (186 mph)	25.4 s*
	0-400 m / ¼ mile	10.5 @ 224 km/h (139 mph)*
Braking	Braking	100-0 km/h     30.5 m (100 ft)
		200-0 km/h     123 m (404 ft)
		300-0 km/h     271 m (889 ft)

*with standard-fit Pirelli P Zero™ Corsa tyre
All figures apply to a European specification McLaren 6505 Coupé

Volvo Infotainment Tablet to simplify and enhance the way drivers operate cars.

Sleek Scandinavian design and intuitive technology to reinvent the car interior.

Volvo Car Group will use the Geneva Motor Show to reveal its new in-car control system, which is designed around a large tablet-like touch screen that will simplify and enhance the way drivers operate their cars.

The touch screen replaces the traditional selection of buttons and controls in the centre stack with one clean and sleek control panel. It will blend established tablet functionality, such as swiping and pinching, with new solutions that are specially designed for the in-car environment. It also interacts with the digital instrument cluster in front of the driver.

“The basic idea is to organise controls and information in a perfectly intuitive and user-friendly way. Everything is exactly where you expect it to be, making the drive more enjoyable, efficient, and safe,” says Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President Design at Volvo Car Group.

This ground-breaking driver experience will be introduced in the next car generation, starting with the all-new Volvo XC90 later in 2014.

“The new user interface is designed to create a smooth, logical and safe interaction between the driver and the car,” says Thomas Ingenlath. “This goes far beyond just putting a large tablet in the centre of the dashboard. We have created a digital environment that is fully integrated in the car.”

Logical stack of four ‘tiles’

The layout on the portrait screen can be described as a stack of flexible ‘tiles’, each displaying a key functionality. Navigation is on the top, followed by media and telephone.

A thin notification band is located above the tiles, while the digital climate controls become the ‘foundation’ of the pile. 

“Information, navigation and media are high up and easy to keep an eye on. The phone controls, application icons and climate controls are located low, comfortable to reach and touch. Using the screen is so logical that it will be part of your muscle memory very quickly,” explains Thomas Ingenlath.

The smooth user interface also includes thumb-reach controls on the steering wheel and extensive voice-control possibilities.

Digital solution

The new user interface is designed so that the tiles on the touch screen expand on interaction. When one of the tiles expands to display required information, the others are compressed, still visible and instantly accessible.

“Having all functions present all the time makes the touch screen exceptionally user-friendly. The spacious layout also promotes smooth interaction without distraction,” says Thomas Ingenlath.

Crystal clear but calm

“Creating this crystal clear, yet calm, environment is a core part of our digital craftsmanship. It is fine for an ordinary tablet to fight for your full attention but a touch screen in a car is very different. Information must be clear and user-friendly, without turning up the visual volume so much that you risk losing focus on the road. This also makes it easier to make really urgent information, such as a warning, much more distinctive,” concludes Thomas Ingenlath.

Third Volvo Concept to debut at Geneva, and shows the future of Volvo Cars.

Volvo Car Group will use the Geneva Motor Show to reveal the third in a series of concept cars – the Concept Estate – that continues the widely-admired exterior design language revealed in the first two concepts, but for the first time reveals how the interior of Volvo’s forthcoming models will both look and function.

The Volvo Concept Estate’s most striking interior design feature is its simplicity. The traditional selection of buttons and controls have been replaced by one large tablet-like touch screen control panel in the centre console, bringing the interior firmly into the 21^st century.

“The basic idea is to organise controls and information in a perfectly intuitive and user-friendly way. Everything is exactly where you expect it to be, making the drive more enjoyable, efficient and safe,” says Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President Design at Volvo Car Group.

In association with Volvo’s specially designed software, the touch screen will be the main control panel for Volvo’s new in-car user experience. It replaces all buttons and controls except for a few crucial functions such as volume, play/pause, hazard warning and window heaters. It also interacts seamlessly with the digital instrument cluster in front of the driver.

“Not having to deal with buttons and controls for a growing number of functionalities is like being freed from a pair of handcuffs,” says Robin Page, Design Director Interior of Volvo Car Group. “This has made it possible to build a beautiful interior architecture around the portrait screen. The concept car showcases how this user interface will be integrated in our new car generation.”

Volvo is the company that redefined the Estate car by combining functionality, sturdiness and practicality with performance. The V70 and XC70 are among the most respected Estates on the market and the new Concept Estate points to how the company could capitalise on this heritage in its forthcoming models.

Volvo has been on a winning streak with its concept cars. The Concept Coupé was named ‘Car of the Show’ by a leading German auto magazine at the Frankfurt Motor Show, while the Concept XC Coupé received the prestigious ‘Eyes ON Design’ award at the Detroit Motor Show.

Global attention on Volvo’s concept cars has been intensifying as they provide the first significant clues as to how the all-new and much-anticipated XC90 SUV and subsequent cars will look. The XC90 is due to be launched later this year.

Learning from history

The rear of Concept Estate echoes the design of the Volvo 1800 ES from the early 1970s.

“The 1800-models are iconic Volvos, renowned for their beautiful forms and detailing. However, using elements from their exterior and interior has nothing to do with being retro. We are using these subtle links to a glorious past to create a future in which sheer beauty becomes a recognised part of Volvo’s identity,” says Thomas Ingenlath.

The subtle inspiration from the 1800-models is also evident on several details inside the Concept Estate, such as the two-spoke steering wheel, the instrument panel and the dials.

Robin Page explains: “The first four decades of the Volvo history was characterised by classic craftsmanship and high quality materials. We are merging this vital part of our brand DNA with the more recent focus on technology and smart functionality. In the Concept Estate we also add the creative side of Scandinavia. The result is an exotic interior with genuine materials and beautiful detailing.”

Beautiful and different

Applying this approach to the iconic estate car – which is the essence of versatile Volvo functionality – creates a car that is both beautiful and different.

The generous dash to axle ratio, low bonnet, sleek silhouette and the glass roof all contribute to the impression of a dynamic, yet capable three-door sports wagon. The contrast between the deep, dark brown pear colour and the bright five-spoke, 21-inch wheels contributes to the modern, cool aura.

Just like the recent Concept Coupé and the Concept XC Coupé, the face of the Volvo Concept Estate is characterised by a new topography on the bonnet and the ‘floating’ grille, flanked by headlights featuring new T-shaped DRL light guides. The rear light signature is another distinctive element in Volvo Cars’ new design direction.

Swedish inside and out

Extrovert and colourful trends within contemporary Swedish lifestyle and design have been powerful sources of inspiration for the design team. Occupants in all four seats are embraced by orange seat belts, and the exclusive, woven wool carpets from the Swedish designer Kasthall have the same deep accent colour.

The crystal gear leaver from Orrefors/Kosta Boda also has an orange glow, while the chequered black and white wool textile on the headliner and rear sides of the front seats adds playfulness to the ‘room’.

“Creativity is thriving in Swedish society. This includes design and technology as well as the fashion, music and art scene. We have used all this as inspiration to create a new, exciting way to express Sweden’s soul,” says Thomas Ingenlath.

The feel of a Scandinavian living room

Refined, handcrafted details, such as an instrument panel covered by thick, naturally tanned saddle leather from Tärnsjö, inlays made of waxed, naturally aged wood and machined copper details, also emphasise the exclusive Swedish atmosphere inside Concept Estate.

"The interior is exceptionally vivid. Yet the glass roof and seats covered by light, soft Bridge of Weir leather help to retain that bright and cosy feeling that is the hallmark of a Swedish living room. A place that makes you feel so comfortable that you are reluctant to leave,” says Robin Page.

Specially designed Swedish ‘kubb’ game

The ambiance might inspire occupants to stop for a picnic and game of Swedish “kubb”. The specially designed game set is visible through the load floor in the back.

“Don’t know the rules? No problem. They are printed on the transparent floor. And rain is no excuse. You will find exclusive Stutterheim raincoats in the back of the car as well,” explains Robin Page.

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Volvo's Partner Suppliers in the creation of the Concept Coupé, Concept XC Coupé and Concept Estate:

Tyres: Pirelli
Wheels: Uniwheels
Leather: Bridge of Weir
Exterior paint: Axalta Coating Systems
Carpet: Kasthall
Gear shift: Kongsberg
Gear shift glass: Orrefors
Exterior light: Valeo
Belts: Autoliv
Interior ambient light: 3M