Volvo has been struggling amid slumping global sales, but that hasn’t stopped the automaker from diving into research and development. One such as product of its R&D efforts is a new plug-in hybrid that will be due by 2012. Volvo has committed itself to producing a high mileage diesel-electric plug-in hybrid, but it has yet to confirm its plans to sell the vehicle in the U.S.
In 2012 when this vehicle reaches European showrooms, Volvo says the vehicle will have a range of 60 miles on a single charge before requiring a plug-in. To help in this endeavor, Louisiana Luxury Cars says Volvo has partnered with energy company Vattenfall. Volvo and Vattenfall have held a partnership since 2007 and Saab has also entered the partnership, which has already yielded the Saab 9-X BioHybrid concept. According to Wausau Used Cars, Volvo is also already testing a V70 wagon equipped with plug-in hybrid technology.
Part of Vattenfall's role will be testing high speed charging stations for the home and for public use. Shreveport Volvo dealers stress that these charging stations will be important as they’re likely to replace gasoline or diesel fueling stations where consumers will pay for electricity instead.
Although mass produced plug-in electric vehicles are still in early development, Volvo appears to be committed to the project. Thanks to its partnerships with Vattenfall, the automaker is also committed to addressing one of the biggest challenges in EV adoption - a fueling infrastructure.
Lexus ES Still Critical to Luxury Brand Lineup
As one Lexus’ most popular models, there will be plenty of drivers that will be happy to see a revamped Lexus ES 350 coming to showrooms later this month. While it may not be a full redesign, the updating certainly brings needed enhancements.
Euro Civic Type-R Teases U.S. Consumers
In the U.S., Honda is mostly known for producing somewhat conservative, economical cars. However, the image of Honda outside of the States is far more performance oriented. This is attributed to a range of models that can be had overseas, but remain unavailable here.
Could GM Utilize Toyota Hybrid Technology?
Toyota and General Motors have had a strong partnership via NUMMI. This seemingly odd relationship was responsible for the Pontiac Vibe, which was build alongside the similar Toyota Matrix in a joint manufacturing venture based in California. With the Pontiac Vibe now discontinued, the question now is what will come of the NUMMI partnership.
