The Volvo XC70 was hailed as the 2012
Executive Crossover at the 8th Annual C! Awards and has once again proven that
it is the top choice when it comes to excellent cross country transport.
The Volvo XC70 is a sophisticated and
elegant car for an active urban life and a reliable partner for all kinds of
exciting adventures. A unique soft nose, characterized by a larger grille and
headlamps, it is complemented with the dark colored body panels for an
exclusive, rugged impression. The tailgate's upper section has a sportier
forward-leaning stance. The tailgate overlaps the tail lamps, providing an even
wider opening. The glass goes further down at the sides, enhancing rear view
while the rails are integrated into the A-pillar moldings.
Designed to be functional, the
40/20/40-split rear seat has integrated seat belt to share with you and yours
while the luggage compartment volume of 555L (ISO V211) is big enough for a
variety of loads and has a storage space under the floor that is locked when
the tailgate is shut. An upgraded turbodiesel D5 engine now delivers 215hp and
420Nm of torque and is coupled with Dynamic Stability and Traction Control that
ensures driving fun.
Celebrate life knowing that the Volvo
XC70 has been developed to give a first-class driving experience. Based largely
on a pliant ride and secure road holding capabilities, this executive crossover
ensures high stability which is particularly important when driving with many
passengers and a lot of luggage.
The chassis technology has also been
further developed to provide even more stable and more controlled road manners.
The suspension system and engine installation have been enhanced to ensure
high-class comfort.
In 2008, the Volvo XC70 won as the
Luxury Cross Over- Wagon 4WD at the Philippine Car of the Year Awards, Best 4x4
Estate of the Year in the UK and Best Crossover in Russia’s Car of the Year
awards, among others. A perfect balance of luxury, safety, reliability, the
Volvo XC70 is without a doubt, an executive crossover designed around you.
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Volvo Philippines shares the pride with the All-New Volvo V40 receiving top rating of five stars in the Euro NCAP collision test. The overall result is the best ever recorded by the institute.
"A fantastic result. We are very proud to have one of the world's safest cars and we're taking yet another important step toward our 2020 target - that nobody should die or be seriously injured in a Volvo," says Thomas Broberg, Senior Technical Advisor Safety at Volvo Car Corporation.
As of 2009 European safety institute Euro NCAP presents an overall rating for each car model whose safety it tests. Separate tests are carried out in four different sub-categories, which are then ranked to produce an overall grade. The four categories are adults occupant protection, child protection, pedestrian protection and safety assist.
It is not only the overall result that is record-high. The All-New Volvo V40's protection for adults for was also the best result ever recorded in a test, no less than 98 percent. During the development of the all-new Volvo V40, the goal was to build in the same safety level as in larger cars. The holistic approach, a strong structure and systems such as the WHIPS whiplash protection system form the basis for the excellent result.
In the safety assist category, the Volvo V40 scores maximum points. "The new Volvo V40 was launched as the most intelligent and the safest car in its segment, and it is truly packed with active safety systems such as auto brake, Pedestrian Detection to shield pedestrians, Lane Keeping Aid which helps the driver stay within his or her lane, and BLIS which helps the driver detect vehicles in the offset rear ‘blind spot'," says Thomas Broberg.
In the pedestrian protection category, the Volvo V40 also sets a new record. One important factor here is the innovative, unique pedestrian airbag. Sensors in the front of the car detect any contact with a pedestrian. A pyrotechnical charge releases the bonnet hinges and elevates the bonnet with the help of an airbag. The inflated airbag's cushioning effect combined with the increased distance to the hard components in the engine compartment help protect the pedestrian's head in any impact. The Euro NCAP description of the system says, among other things, that "the system worked well, the bonnet offering good protection in all areas likely to be struck by a pedestrian's head, making the V40 the first car to score maximum points in this area."
Volvo Car Corporation had already previously received the Euro NCAP Advanced Award for its City Safety system, which is fitted as standard in all versions of the V40. City Safety operates at speeds of up to 50 km/h, which is more than any other car manufacturer offers in similar systems.
"We work continuously on improving the already high safety level of our cars through ongoing research into the reasons behind road accidents and by gaining in-depth understanding of the results of actual collisions," says Thomas Broberg.
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New trade partner signals Volvo expansion in the Philippines
Volvo means, “I roll” in Latin and roll it does as a new
trade partner in the Visayas region signed on to deliver the dynamic range of
Volvo cars in Bacolod, Iloilo and nearby provinces.
Distributed by its local partner Grandcars, Incorporated,
Volvo Iloilo and Bacolod are now open to serve loyal Volvo enthusiasts with its
trademark quality and customer care. “It is with much pride and pleasure that
we have officially rolled onto Bacolod and Iloilo roads. We promise to continue
our dedication to providing world-class Volvo vehicles coupled by quality customer
service to the eager Visayan market”, quips Roselyn Dimalanta, 1st Executive
Vice President of Volvo Philippines.
Powered by fuel-efficient engines and exhilarating drive
trains, the stable of new Volvos are revved and ready to conquer the vibrant
land of Dinagyang and the City of Smiles. The nimble Volvo C30 Sports Coupe is
ready to zip through city streets along with its other compact siblings the
Volvo S40 and V50. Equally excited to cruise around are the Volvo S60 Sports Sedan
and the elegantly appointed Volvo S80. If it’s a trip to the outskirts of town,
then the Volvo V60 Sportswagon, the stylish Volvo XC60 Crossover and the
7-seater Volvo XC90 AWD SUV can cleverly switch to rugged mode in just a blink.
Whatever the situation is, there’s surely a Volvo that is designed around you.
Designed around people, Volvo continues to share with the
market Scandinavian luxury cars that make life less complicated through
masterful engineering and thoughtful design. Cool outside with its sleek
design, the new fleet of Volvos also exude warmth that comes from balancing the
demands of the machine with human needs. Unique from its competitors with its world-renowned
safety heritage and inherent care for people, Volvo cars offer luxury that
gives people a feeling of space, calm, control, comfort and security – strength
in every sense.
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Buckle up for exclusive deals and new offersVolvo Philippines makes it easier to own a brand new Volvo through its Buckle Up Ownership Packages. Running until September 30, 2012, Volvo enthusiasts can drive home a new car for as low as 20 down payment at 0% interest and payable up to 60 months.
This exciting ownership offer is made available for the Volvo XC60 and XC90 AWD SUV. With high ground clearance, amazing crossover capability, clever design and world-class safety, these SUVs offer the best mix of comfortable city driving and rugged outdoor escapades. A selection of ownership packages is also available for other models. Whether it is the nimble C30 Sports Coupe, the range of fuel-efficient S60 Sports Sedans or the versatile V60 Sportswagon, each Volvo is assured to deliver dynamic performance because each car is designed around you.
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ROCKLEIGH, N.J. (Aug. 14, 2012) -- The 2012 Volvo S60 earned a top rating
of "good" in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) new
small overlap frontal crash test, making it the highest-rated European luxury
vehicle among those tested. The Volvo S60 was rated higher than the Infiniti G,
BMW 3 Series, Acura TSX, Audi A4, Mercedes C-Class and the Lexus IS 250 / 350.
The Acura TL was the only other vehicle to earn a "good" rating.
"When we decided to build a world-class sports sedan we made sure it
was a great Volvo first and foremost," said John Maloney, president and
CEO of Volvo Cars of North America. "We set the benchmark on safety, and
we continue to lead the crowd."
The IIHS news release is located under the "additional
information" tab..
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Volvo introduces a pioneering
preventive safety technology in 2008 called City Safety. This Volvo world-first
technology was introduced as standard with the Volvo XC60 which helped reduced
risk of rear-end collisions between a car and a Volvo.
Studies showed that 75 percent of all
reported collisions take place at speeds of up to 30kph. In half of these cases
the driver has not braked at all before the collision, mainly due to
distraction. In these cases, City Safety could make a crucial difference. The
Volvo City Safety System helps in completely avoiding collisions at low speed
or at least substantially mitigating the consequences. City Safety works with a
laser sensor in the upper portion of the windscreen. If the system establishes
that there is a danger of collision when the car in front performs a sudden
braking maneuver or because of a stationary vehicle, the car's own brake system
swings into action. If the driver fails to respond to the danger situation,
emergency braking is automatically initiated with a deceleration between 50 and
100 percent of the available brake friction force.
In 2011, the benefits of the City
Safety technology were documented in another IIHS (Insurance Institute for
Highway Safety) report quoting a reduction of the collision frequency by up to
22 percent. Insurance claims involving the Volvo XC60 show that City Safety
reduces the cost of personal injury claims by 51 percent - while vehicle repair
costs were lowered by more than 20 percent.
This system is now further upgraded
to be active on speeds up to 35kph. In situations where the difference in speed
between the two vehicles is 15kp or less, a collision can be completely avoided.
In a potential collision situation in which the difference in speed between the
vehicles is between 15-30kph, the consequences of the impending collision can
be considerably reduced because the system will intervene to reduce speed
before the collision occurs
Designed to give you more miles of
peace of mind, the City Safety is fitted as standard in the locally available
variants of the Volvo XC60, Volvo S60 and Volvo V60.
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By developing several new high-tech safety solutions, Volvo Car Corporation is taking a major step toward its 2020 goal that nobody should be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo car. A lot of intensive development work is under way by Volvo Car Corporation's safety experts to deliver on the vision that no Volvo cars are to be involved in collisions in the future. One step on the way is the 2020 goal is that nobody should be seriously injured in a new Volvo car. "We are taking clear steps in the right direction. We have a number of research projects with the aim to develop technologies for future Volvo models," says Jan Ivarsson, Senior Manager Safety Strategy & Requirements at Volvo Car Corporation.
Many of the new technologies are tailored to the way drivers behave in the modern traffic environment. Today's drivers differ from yesterday's. For instance, surveys from three different research institutes in the USA reveal that modern drivers spend 25 to 30 percent of their time behind the wheel doing other things, such as focusing on mobile communication.
Drivers who make phone calls and who check their email and text messages are becoming increasingly common - and since these situations affect the driver's attention on the road, they have to be taken into account when developing new technologies.
"In the modern mobile society we bring our social lives with us wherever we go. The car is no exception. For us it's quite simply a matter of creating technology that provides the driver with the right support at all times," relates Jan Ivarsson.
Volvo Car Corporation's research focuses on three main areas: staying safely in the current lane, avoiding accidents at crossroads and junctions, and avoiding collisions with wild animals. The following research projects are currently under way:
• Autonomous Driving Support
• Intersection Support
• Animal Detection
Autonomous driving in traffic queuesAutonomous Driving Support helps the driver stay in his or her lane and follow the rhythm of the traffic if queues build up.
Using data from a camera and radar sensors, the car can follow the vehicle in front. The engine, brakes and steering respond automatically. If the vehicle in front is forced to make a quick move because of an obstacle in the road, the driver is assisted by the steering system, which makes the car veer in the same direction.
"This function has considerable scope for making the driver's life easier. Our first generation of advanced technology focuses on driving in queues at low speeds. The car follows the vehicle in front in the same lane. However, it is always the driver who decides. He or she can take control at any time," says Fredrik Lundholm.
Automatic braking at intersectionsCrossroads and junctions are the most complex part of the modern traffic environment. When many road-users cross each other's paths simultaneously and from different directions, all that is needed is a small mistake to cause a serious accident.
In the USA, 21.5 percent of all fatal accidents in 2007 occurred in intersections, and in 16 EU countries (excluding Sweden) the corresponding figure was 20.6 percent in 2006. Mattias Brännström, PhD Active Safety Functions, is responsible for Intersection Support, a research project within Volvo Car Corporation in collaboration with the Department of Signals and Systems at Chalmers University of Technology. The system alerts and automatically brakes for crossing traffic when necessary. "Intersection Support uses sensors to assess the entire traffic scenario. If a critical situation is registered, a decision to intervene is taken at lightning speed," explains Mattias Brännström.
He exemplifies this by drawing a queue of cars turning left at an intersection. When the lightturns green one car after another turns left. Suddenly an oncoming car drives through the red light - and creates an immediate danger. "In this situation, the turning car automatically brakes to avoid a collision. Intersection Support thus serves as a system that not only helps deal with the driver's own mistakes, but those of other road users too," explains Mattias Brännström. He says Volvo Car Corporation's safety approach is about getting cars to behave like people. The sensors are the eyes, the computers are the brain and the brakes are the muscles. "With our advanced technology we're trying to do the same thing that people would do in the same situation if they have time to react. We want to provide assistance in as many situations as possible," says Mattias Brännström.
Animal Detection focuses on collisions with wild animalsOf course this collection of data is not restricted to urban environments. Out in the countryside and in more remote areas there are many serious collisions involving wild animals. Accidents involving wild animals are a major international traffic problem. In Canada, about 40,000 such accidents leading to vehicle damage are reported every year. Sweden reported 47,000 animal collisions in 2010. Of these 7,000 were elk collisions. The conditions in Canada and Sweden are also found in Norway, Finland and Russia. In the USA, about 200 people a year are killed in impacts with wild animals, mostly with deer.
However, these official accident statistics do not reveal the whole truth. For instance, they do not include all those accidents in which a driver swerves to avoid an animal and instead collides with another vehicle or veers off the road. According to a University of Umeå study of accidents between 2003 and 2010, no less than 23 percent of fatalities occurred after drivers swerved to avoid elk in the roadway - and these figures do not show up in the official statistics of collisions with wild animals.
Volvo Car Corporation is now working on Animal Detection, a system that detects and automatically brakes for animals both in daylight and in the dark. "The technology is a further development of our pedestrian protection system. Considerable attention has been focused on ensuring that the system works in the dark since most collisions with wild animals take place at dawn and dusk," explains Andreas Eidehall, Technical Expert Active Safety.
Accidents with wild animals often take place at cruising speeds. The aim is to reduce the speed of impact from about 100-110km/h to below 80km/h. Once speed drops below 80km/h, the car's safety systems are effective and the risk of serious injuries is small. This requires the ability to detect the animal from a distance of about 30 meters.
Another important aspect is response time - the time lapse between object identification and system reaction. "With advanced technology we can shorten the response time still further in order to enhance the system's effectiveness," says Andreas Eidehall.
The system is trained to recognize the shapes of animals and their movement patterns via a vast amount of collected data. The gathering of images of animals in motion takes place on a continuous basis. But since wild animals have in many respects mastered the art of staying out of sight, this is a complex process.
"There is a huge challenge in collecting data that helps us understand how we can detect what nature has done its best to conceal. The focus is on large animals since they cause the most damage and the most severe injuries. We have worked with elk and large stags, but have now also included horses and cattle. One future step will be the ability to detect smaller animals such as deer and wild boar," says Anders Eidehall.
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Seven sensors, advanced technology and an airbag that deploys at lightning speed in the windscreen area. These are some of the main elements of Pedestrian Airbag Technology - the system that makes Volvo Car Corporation with its All-New V40 the first manufacturer with a pedestrian airbag.
In China, 25 percent of traffic fatalities are pedestrians. In Europe the figure is 14 percent and in the USA 12 percent. Far larger numbers of pedestrians are injured. The most serious head injuries involving pedestrians and cars are caused by the hard structure under the bonnet panel, the windscreen's lower edge and the A-pillars.
These were some of the considerations when Volvo Car Corporation started the development of its Pedestrian Airbag Technology. The system was a world breakthrough when the All-New Volvo V40 was launched in Geneva earlier this year.
"We are proud to be able to offer a car with an airbag for pedestrians. The purpose of the airbag is to help protect pedestrians in certain situations when they impact the bonnet and the area around the windscreen wiper recess and A-pillar, where there may be a risk of serious head injuries," says Thomas Broberg, Senior Technical Advisor Safety, Volvo Car Corporation.
Seven sensors embedded in the front of the car transmit signals to a control unit. When the car comes into contact with an object, the signals change. The control unit evaluates the signals and if it registers what it interprets as a human leg the pedestrian airbag is deployed.
Raises the bonnet by ten centimetersThe bonnet hinges are each equipped with pyrotechnical release mechanisms which, when the system is activated, pull out a pin and release the rear of the bonnet panel. At the same time, the airbag is activated and starts filling with gas. During the inflation sequence the airbag raises the bonnet. It is lifted ten centimeters and stays in the raised position.
The added gap between the bonnet and the hard components in the engine compartment gives space for the bonnet to deform, creating a dampening effect when it is hit by a pedestrian.
"The airbag has two functions. Firstly, it raises the bonnet to create distance, and secondly it cushions the impact around the hard parts of the area near the windscreen," explains Thomas Broberg.
In its inflated position, the airbag covers the entire windscreen wiper recess, about one-third of the windscreen and the lower part of the A-pillars. The entire sequence from activation of the system to full inflation takes a few hundredths of a second.
Tests with human-like dummy legsThe system is active at speeds between 20 and 50km/h. 75 percent of all accidents involving pedestrians take place at up to 40 km/h.
"We developed the technology using computer simulations and human-like leg and head forms. The tests were carried out in a wide variety of configurations," relates Thomas Broberg.
The airbag itself consists of a sack and a gas hybrid generator. Upon activation, the sack is filled with gas within a few milliseconds.
Two years ago, 2010, Volvo Car Corporation launched Pedestrian Detection with full auto brake. The system can avoid a collision with a pedestrian at speeds of up to 35 km/h if the driver does not respond in time. At higher speeds the focus is on reducing the car's speed as much as possible before the collision.
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Launch of the Volvo V60 and Volvo V40 boosts Volvo Car Corporation's
growth towards 200,000 cars in China
Volvo Car Corporation is one of the fastest growing luxury
car brands in China - and the journey towards selling 200,000 cars per year in
the world's most dynamic car market continues in 2012. "The introduction
of the Volvo V60 and the all-new Volvo V40 will help us maintain the desired
growth momentum," says Freeman Shen, Senior Vice President Volvo Car China
Operations.
Last year Volvo Car Corporation sold over 47,000 cars in
China, an increase of more than 55 percent compared with 2010. At the Beijing
Auto Show, Volvo Car Corporation presents two valuable additions to the
company's model line-up.
Combining luxury, fun
and functionality
The Volvo V60 is a luxurious, sporty and exciting-to-drive
Sports Activity Vehicle for customers who understand and appreciate both fun
and functionality.
"In addition to a great driving experience the Volvo V60
offers the owner rational functionality, the opportunity to enjoy life together
with friends and family. It is a perfect choice for true car enthusiasts,"
says Freeman Shen. He adds: "The all-new Volvo V40 is a premium hatchback
that offers the same virtues as the V60 - in a slightly more compact package.
It has an outstanding, beautiful design and it is charged with sophisticated
features you normally have to buy a large car to get."
Second home market
China is Volvo Car Corporation's second home market. The
company's full-fledged business operations in Shanghai include product
development, design, purchasing and staff support functions.
"We are also expanding our retailer network and our
industrial system to provide a growing number of Chinese buyers with
Scandinavian luxury cars, accompanied by first-class service and hospitality.
Our recruitment continues with more talented people joining us. Currently we have
close to 800 employees working for Volvo Car Corporation in China." says
Freeman Shen.
A Volvo manufacturing plant in Chengdu is the next step in
Volvo Car Corporation's ambitious industrial strategy. This new plant will be
up and running in the second half of 2013 and will have a production capacity
of more than 100,000 cars per year.
"Our co-operation with New York Knicks' rising
basketball star Jeremy Lin is another milestone in the continuous strengthening
of our brand position in China. As our new Brand Ambassador, Jeremy Lin will
participate in corporate and marketing activities. He will also appear in
advertising," concludes Freeman Shen.
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Ford prepares challengers of the Jollibee
Drive-Thru Cross-Country Challenge with award-winning road safety seminar
MANILA, Philippines, May 2012 – As part of its
commitment to promoting safe, smart and fuel efficient driving in the
Philippines, Ford recently conducted a Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) seminar
for the twenty challengers participating in the Jollibee Drive-Thru Cross-Country
Challenge.
In partnership with Ford, Jollibee launched
its nationwide Drive-Thru Cross-Country Challenge where ten teams of two are
tasked to drive across the Philippines and make their way to as many of the
designated Jollibee Drive-Thru stores for a total of 10 days onboard the
popular Ford Fiesta 1.6L Sport Plus hatchback. With a mix of driving and fun
challenges, the teams will accumulate a total of 40,000 kilometers over the ten
day program.
To prepare the challengers, Ford’s DSFL
program highlighted safe, smart and fuel-efficient driving techniques to help
the finalists anticipate road conditions, stay safe on the road and save fuel
on the way.
“Road safety is very close to our business. We
are not only committed to providing our customers with vehicles that feature
the latest safety features and smart technologies like the best-selling Ford
Fiesta, but with our DSFL training, we also hope to enhance their knowledge and
help make them drive better, safer, and with more awareness of other vehicles
on the road,” said Anika Salceda-Wycoco, assistant vice president for Communications,
Ford Group Philippines.
Anticipating Traffic Conditions, Preventing Road
Accidents
The latest DSFL seminar, specifically tailored
for the Jollibee Drive-Thru Challenge teams, tackled road safety awareness, important
safety tips and fuel efficient driving techniques. The DSFL hands-on training
using the Ford Fiesta Sport Plus included steering exercises, tight maneuvering
courses and breaking exercises, allowing the participants to properly acquaint themselves
with the vehicles prior to the actual challenge.
“The Jollibee Drive-Thru Challenge teams will
face multiple road conditions and obstacles on their journey across the
Philippines. With our DSFL seminar, we hope to equip them with the right road
safety information and skills to keep them safe on the road,” said JP Tuason,
DSFL instructor and president of Tuason Racing School.
Thrilling Driving Challenge Awaits
The challengers were not only excited about
the Jollibee Drive-Thru Challenge but were also pleased with the road safety
information and techniques shared during the DSFL seminar held in Ford’s Sta.
Rosa offices.
“I’m definitely looking forward to this
challenge. I love cars and spending ten days with the Fiesta is more than
enough pleasant experience for me. The seminar is also useful as it is not just
about winning but also staying safe on the road,” shares motoring writer
Ulysses Ang.
“Having known one another for seven years, our
advantage is that we know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. The seminar
was very helpful in preparing us for possible dangers on the road,” shares good
friends Anthony Gaas and Niño Duran.
The winning team of the Jollibee Drive-Thru
Cross-Country Challenge will receive a PhP1 million cash prize and two Ford
Fiesta 1.4L AT Trend hatchbacks.
Since 2005, Ford Philippines’ road safety
program has had more than 20,000 participants and was re-launched in 2008 under
Ford’s global DSFL program. The company has an ongoing partnership with the
Tuason Racing School (TRS) to help raise awareness on safe driving practices,
and has conducted sessions with a wide variety of audience – provided to all,
free-of-charge.
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Up to 5 years zero interest ownership packageTrue to its promise of providing the market with cars that understand people, Volvo Philippines takes the unique experience a step further with a winning ownership option. Starting April 13, drive home a brand new Volvo with Volvo’s High Five Ownership Package. For as low as 20% downpayment* at zero interest for up to 5 years, reward yourself with a car that delivers uncompromising luxury.
Innovative and IntuitiveInnovative and intuitive, Volvo safety technologies are designed to give the driver peace of mind. City Safety, for example, is a world-first collision avoidance technology which prevents rear - end collisions. This technology is local available as standard in the Volvo S60, V60 and XC60. Volvo S60 T6’s Collision Warning with Full Auto Break and Pedestrian Detection helps avoid collision with unprotected road users by flashing a red light on the wind screen and an audible warning when a person is within range. Should the driver fail to respond on time, full auto breaking power is applied.
Functional and Natural
Volvo's new driver-control interface called Volvo Sensus, allows you to conveniently explore the hi-tech features of your car and personalize them to suit your needs. All information is displayed on a high-resolution 5" or 7" color screen, which can also display the phone, park assist camera, DVD, digital TV, among others. Everything is conveniently controlled using the ergonomic steering wheel controls -- so you can keep your attention on the traffic and your hands on the steering wheel. Moreover, every material in your Volvo is chosen for its quality, allergy reducing and renewable characteristics.
Engaging and Entertaining
The unique range of sleek smart and strong Volvos are locally available with state-of-the art turbo charged petrol and turbodiesel engine variants which are optimized to deliver uninterrupted power output while ensuring that you get most out of every micro drop of your fuel. What is more, every Volvo engine is engineered to respond instantly so spontaneous adventures never have to wait.
It is indeed high time to drive home your favorite Volvo. Built with thoughtful details and coupled with a winning ownership package, experience pure driving fun with the sleek, smart and strong Volvos that are specially designed around you.
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• The All-New Ford Fiesta continues to shine with best-ever monthly performance
• Supply of vehicles from Thailand is continuing to improve; company remains upbeat on
overall 2012 performance
• The all-new Ranger and all-new Ford Explorer 2.0L GTDi XLT with EcoBoost were
launched, and Ford Mustang revealed, at last month's Manila International Auto Show
MANILA, Philippines, 16 April 2012 – Ford Philippines today reported March retail sales of
623 units, an increase of 50 percent from the previous month, as vehicle supply from Thailand
continued to improve.
The all-new Ford Fiesta led the March performance and reaffirmed its segment leadership by
delivering its best-ever monthly sales of 392 units – an increase of 64 percent from February.
Despite the lingering effects from the Thai floods on local supply, the class-leading Fiesta
delivered overall first-quarter sales that rose slightly from the previous quarter to 774 units.
“The all-new Fiesta continues to prove its wide appeal among young and savvy consumers
who appreciate its best-in-class package of design, safety, fuel economy, quality and value
for money," said Randy Krieger, president, Ford Group Philippines. “Our fast-growing Fiesta
customer base is incredibly loyal and enthusiastic, and they are certainly helping spread the
excitement about this fantastic small car.”
The Ford Escape SUV turned in a strong March, with retail sales of 112 units, an increase of 56
percent from the previous month.
At the Manila International Auto Show last month, Ford underscored the reason for its
confidence that momentum will continue to build this year by launching the all-new Ford Ranger pickup, the all-new Ford Explorer 2.0L GTDi with EcoBoost, and revealing the new Ford
Mustang sports car.
Ford started taking orders at the Show for the all-new Ranger with the official public launch now
expected in July.
“Combining the toughness and capability of a pickup truck with smart technology, outstanding
safety, excellent fuel economy, quality and comfort, the all-new Ranger will redefine the pickup
truck segment in the Philippines,” said Krieger.
The all-new Explorer 2.0L GTDi XLT is first vehicle in the Philippines equipped with Ford’s
innovative EcoBoost engine technology, which enhances engine performance and power while
delivering increased fuel economy. The Explorer 2.0L GTDi XLT will officially go on-sale in July.
Additionally, the all-new Explorer 3.5L Limited won 2011-2012 Car of the Year for ‘Best Luxury
SUV’ at the Show, as well as the Bosch Technical Innovation Award for its award-winning
MyFord Touch and SYNC global in-car connectivity systems.
“The all-new Explorer is fast-becoming one of our strongest vehicles in the Ford portfolio, and we are eager to sustain the momentum,” said Randy Krieger, president, Ford Group
Philippines. “The success of this vehicle is further evidence we are delivering products that
people want and value.”
The local reveal Ford Mustang turned out to be a show-stopper at MIAS, with enthusiasts
eagerly receiving news that this super-charged vehicle will be officially launched in July, with
first deliveries expected in September.
Ford also reaffirmed its plans to launch the all-new Ford Focus later this year, representing the
next of the eight all-new vehicles Ford will introduce in ASEAN by mid-decade.
“With the arrival of so many great One Ford vehicles this year in the Philippines, there is no
question that our sales performance will continue to strengthen through the year,” explained
Krieger.
Ford plans to open 12 new authorized Ford dealerships this year to support its aggressive
growth plans, bringing its nationwide network to 35 authorized dealers.
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What separates a car lover from a car enthusiast? “Passion with knowledge will always set them apart” says Sophie delos Santos, President of Tradeshow International and organizer of the oldest running car show in the country, the TRANS SPORT SHOW. “We have been staging this annual event since 1992 purposely to serve as a gathering of finely-restored show cars for competition . And because the show has become a breeding ground for car enthusiasts, we feel responsible for keeping their passion alive and setting the proper direction as far as car appreciation and knowledge is concerned”, delos Santos said. Come April 18-22, the 21st Trans Sport Show will happen at the SM Megamall’s Megatrade Halls and is being presented for the second time by Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, Inc.
Keeping true to Trans Sport Show’s tagline as the “Car Show for Enthusiasts by Enthusiasts”, Tradeshow International, Inc. maintains a high standard when accepting cars for show and competition which will go under scrutiny by a panel of seasoned car enthusiast judges. “We do reserve very limited slots new players in the field to help fuel up enthusiasm but we select only those who we feel have the passion to begin with or car hobbyists with strong potential to develop into true car enthusiasts. Also, after 20 years, this is the time to usher in the next generation of Trans Sport Show fans”, enthuses de los Santos. There will be over 15 categories open in the 21st Phoenix Trans Sport Show Cup with two major awards which are the Best
of Show Nostalgic (for vintage and classic cars) and Best of Show Contemporary (for newer cars). This year’s panel of judges is headed by veteran judge Osamu Hasegawa together with Eddie Salonga, Boyer Kalugdan, John Escobar, Nilo Escalona, Pepon Marave and George Apacible. Awarding will be on April 21 at 6PM.
Part of Trans Sport Show’s tradition is to educate the public on automotive history hence, a special highlight will be the “50th Anniversary of the MGB” display in cooperation with the Manila Sports Car Club and the MG Club. Fifty years ago, in 1962, MG introduced the sports car, which increased its fame in the 60s and 70s. It remained in production until 1980. Accurately described as the most popular sports car, there were more than 500,000 MGBs made from 1962 to 1980. The display will feature restored MGBs including a GT and a roadster.
Other event highlights include a talk about “Collecting Vintage Cars” on April 21, Saturday at 4PM by members of the Manila Sports Car Club, Porsche Club and the Vintage Car Club. Get valuable insights on how to get started in the hobby, maintaining and enjoying it. The Search for the 2012 Miss Trans Sport Show is open to all the pretty booth attendants in the show and will surely be a must –shoot activity for the photographers. There will also be exhibitor related activities namely the WWW.AUTOINDUSTRIYA.COM
GT 5 CHALLENGE with qualifying rounds fromApril 18 – 21 and awarding on April 22. DKT Philippines will have the PREMIERE MAX BLACK JACK & PREMIERE VIXENS SEARCH MODELS . Online voting activities from April 19-21 include Most Popular Online Babe via www.topgear.com.ph, Best Car Display via www.tsikot.com and Best Booth Display via www.kotse.com. For Facebook users, you may upload your most creative picture taken at this year’s event in Trans Sport Show’s official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pages/TRANS-SPORT-SHOW.
The 21st Phoenix Trans Sport Show is sponsored in part by Solar Sports, Basketball TV, C!, Top Gear, Power Wheels, Radio High 105.9 , Crossover 105.1, DZRH 666, DWIZ, 97 Home Radio, RJ 100, DZRJ 810, Inside Motoring, Business Mirror, Businessworld, Chinese Commercial News, Daily Tribune, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard Today, Manila Times, Phil.Daily Inquirer, Philippine Star, Malaya Business Insight, Padi’s Point, Lazer Maxx, Gotcha, Auto Review, Sunshine TV, Motoring Today, Auto Focus, Stoplight TV, Pinoy Extreme, ABS CBN TFC, Autoindustriya.com, Kotse.com , TopGear.com.ph, Tsikot.com, Autopartsmanila.com, Café Puro and Motorola. Show tickets are already available in all SM Ticket Cinema outlets or buy onsite on the showdates.. For more details, call Tradeshow International, Inc. at 6713122, 6718381-82, 09175322637 and 09175322648.
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4:50 PM by
kankan
, under
The Ultimate 8-Star Christmas Promo grand prize, a brand new Volvo XC60, was awarded
to Jeanette Suy Chua (center) by Megaworld Corporation First Vice-President and
Commercial Division Head, Kevin Tan, (left) and Viking Cars Inc. Assistant Vice-President, Loi
Concepcion-De Guzman (right).
The Megaworld Lifestyle Malls Ultimate 8-Star Christmas promo ran from November 3 until
January 31. All Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, namely: Eastwood City, Venice Piazza at McKinley
Hill, Burgos Circle at Forbes Town Center, Paseo Center, The Clubhouse at Temple Drive,
and Newport Mall at Resorts World Manila, participated in the promo.
The Volvo XC60 is available locally in three exciting variants, the dynamic 2.0L T5 with 240hp and 320Nm of torque, the 2.4L turbodiesel at 215hp and 415Nm of torque and the powerful 3.0L T6 boosting 304hp and 440Nm of torque.
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The Scandinavian luxury car brand, Volvo Cars, announced today that it has signed Chinese-American NBA (National Basketball Association) star, Jeremy Shu-How Lin, to a global brand endorsement contract, with focus on China, the United States, and Chinese-language markets in Asia. According to the cooperation agreement, over the next two years Jeremy Lin will participate in Volvo Cars corporate and marketing activities in his capacity as Volvo Cars Brand Ambassador. He will also appear in Volvo Cars advertising in these markets.
“Volvo Cars’ choice of Jeremy Lin as the company ambassador derives from our shared ethos of passion, dynamism and progressiveness,” said Mr. Freeman Shen, President of Volvo Cars China at the press conference. “This is a significant moment in the history of Volvo Cars’ brand rejuvenation, showcasing the new Volvo brand strategy Designed Around You with sportsmanship and intelligence. In this new era, Volvo Cars has set a vision of being the world’s most progressive and human luxury car brand, and we are determined to win the future. For our region, Jeremy Lin is the pride of the whole Chinese population, and we are excited to work with him.” “We believe Jeremy Lin’s character, intelligence, perseverance, and pursuit of excellence are perfectly in tune with Volvo car owners’ characteristics of appreciating smart understated luxury with a human touch,” added Mr. Richard Monturo, Vice President of Marketing, Volvo Cars Corporation, elaborating on the brand associations.
Jeremy Lin, the only NBA star with a Harvard degree, told the press conference, “It’s a great honor for me to be appointed as Volvo Cars Brand Ambassador today. You may not immediately see the connection between me and Volvo Cars. But both of us are striving to be better and smarter at what we do, and to do it our own way. I hope that my efforts will inspire more young people to follow their ambitions in sports and education, just like Volvo Cars is designing cars around people’s ambitions in life.”
Volvo Cars has organically integrated sports into its corporate and brand culture, with its joint sponsorship of the Volvo Ocean Race, and participation in winter sports, golf, and other sporting events. The Jeremy Lin endorsement is another milestone of Volvo Cars’ revival, and will duly help the company further enhance its brand image and business performance globally, especially in the strategically important markets of China and the United States.
In the Philippines, Volvo through its local distributor Viking Cars, Incorporated, has long acknowledged the values shared by the brand and the dynamism of basketball as early as 2007 when it signed on basketball star Chris Tiu. From the iconic pocket rocket Volvo C30 to the stylishly bold Volvo XC60, Tiu has continued his meteoric rise to be drafted in the Philippine national basketball team Gilas (meaning skill in Filipino), as well as be one of the country’s esteemed young television hosts and celebrity endorsers. Much like the Volvo he drives, his achievements are punctuated by his being impeccably styled, intelligently fascinating and giving off 100% dynamic performance in everything he does. “We’re really looking forward to welcoming Jeremy Lin into the Volvo team especially here in the Philippines where basketball is a major part of our culture and lifestyle,” says Loi de Guzman, Assistant Vice President for Marketing Services of Volvo Philippines.
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The All-New Ford Explorer has been reinvented, raising the bar on SUV safety by combining technologies to help avoid crashes with those that set new standards of protection in the event of one.
The comprehensive safety story of the All-New Ford Explorer adds new features including the world’s first inflatable second-row seat belts.
“The All-New Explorer 2.0L GTDi XLT combines – all at once – our best technologies to not only help prevent a crash, but to help prevent injuries to occupants when a crash is unavoidable,” said Vinay Piparsania, vice president for Marketing and Sales, Ford Group Philippines. “The use of high-strength steels such as boron in the Explorer body structure also offers a greater level of protection, while meeting the most stringent roof crush standards.”
Explorer showcases Ford’s commitment to safety by offering passengers an unprecedented array of active and passive safety technologies.
World’s first inflatable rear seat belts
The All-New Explorer 2.0L GTDi XLT offers a Ford technology unique in the automotive industry in the first-ever inflatable second-row seat belts. Rear seat passengers – often children or mature passengers – can be more vulnerable to head, chest and neck injuries, thus the advanced restraint system is designed to help reduce such injuries.
Advances in airbag inflation and seat belt construction methods have enabled Ford and its suppliers to develop inflatable seat belts that are designed to deploy over a vehicle occupant’s torso and shoulder in 40 milliseconds in the event of a crash.
“Ford’s rear inflatable seat belt technology will enhance safety for rear seat passengers of all ages, especially for young children who are more vulnerable in crashes,” said Piparsania. “This is another unique family technology that builds on our safety leadership, including the most top safety ratings of any automaker.”
Vehicle safety sensors determine the severity of the collision in the blink of an eye and deploy the inflatable belts’ airbags. Each belt’s tubular airbag inflates with cold compressed gas, which flows through a specially designed buckle from a cylinder housed below the seat.
In the event of a frontal or side crash, the inflatable belt’s increased diameter more effectively holds the occupant in the appropriate seating position, helping to reduce the risk of injury.
The inflated belt helps distribute crash force energy across five times more of the occupant’s torso than a traditional belt, which expands its range of protection and reduces risk of injury by diffusing crash pressure over a larger area, while providing additional support to the head and neck. After deployment, the belt remains inflated for several seconds before dispersing its air through the pores of the airbag.
Rear inflatable seat belts demonstrate Ford’s ongoing commitment to occupant safety. The Ford inflatable belts spread impact forces across five times more area than conventional seat belts. This reduces pressure on the chest while helping to control head and neck motion.
Belt comfort also should help increase usage rates. Studies show inflatable belts to be more comfortable for passengers due to padding.
Explorer reduces distraction, warns, intercedes
The Ford SYNC® hands-free, voice-activated integrated communications and entertainment system combines with MyFord Touch driver connect technology to keep drivers focused on driving with their eyes on the road and hands on the steering wheel.
The All-New Explorer also comes equipped with a host of technologies to help prevent crashes – from parking lot fender benders to high-speed collisions – by warning drivers of crash potential. These technologies include options such as:
- Collision warning with brake support
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Dynamic avoidance technologies include AdvanceTrac electronic stability control with RSC and the world’s first application of Curve Control, a new Ford feature designed to enhance vehicle braking in instances of excessive speed in turning or curve conditions.
Collision warning with brake support and Curve Control actually apply the brakes when these systems sense situation irregularity, helping the driver to avoid an incident by bringing the vehicle back in safe control.
Ford-exclusive MyKey allows parents to preset limits on vehicle speed and audio system volume levels. In addition, MyKey prevents deactivation of dynamic control systems such as AdvanceTrac and enables parents to set speed warnings. MyKey is a critical factor in minimization and prevention of young driver distraction and risk.
Ford’s Belt-Minder provides a persistent warning when drivers and front seat passengers fail to buckle seat belts.
Structural safety and crash protection
Explorer features a unibody configuration body structure. Nearly half of this stiff shell is comprised of high-strength steels, such as boron. A-pillars, rocker panels and front beams are boron, for both increased strength and reduced weight. In addition, this structure was designed and developed to exceed stringent rollover standards.
The initial component is the high-strength boron front beam that absorbs crash forces on impact. These forces then transfer to the shotgun rails, developed to divert impact to the A-pillars and the stiff roof structure. Shotgun rails constitute the second component within the Trinity structure. The third element is an engine cradle designed to break away and drop downward in the event of a frontal impact.
When a crash becomes unavoidable, Explorer relies on a class-leading complement of airbags to protect occupants. Two front and two side second-generation airbags are joined by a Safety Canopy consisting of side curtain airbags for all three rows of passenger seating. Personal Safety System™ seat belts feature pretensioners and an energy management system with adjustable height in the first row.
Outboard second-row seat locations include the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system for attaching child safety seats.
The All-New Ford Explorer 2.0L GTDi XLT with EcoBoost will be on display at the 2012 Manila International Auto Show on March 29 to April 1, 2012 at World Trade Center.
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