Volvo continues to prove that it deserves a spot in the premium class with fascinating new concepts that preview the brand’s future compact lineup. The handsome 40.1 crossover SUV and 40.2 sedan (dubbed notchback) are based on Volvo and Geely’s Compact Modular Architecture (CMA); a platform that promises exciting advancements in electrification, autonomous driving technology and infotainment.
According to several sources, these new concepts will be the XC40 crossover and S40 sedan when Volvo brings them to the U.S. market in just a few short years.
The 40 Series is a part of Volvo’s long-term strategy for vehicle development, specifically when it comes to expanding its presence in the growing premium small car market. The company has stated that it wants to sell 1 million electric cars by 2025 globally, with a goal to deliver 40 Series models that will offer up to 215 miles of all-electric range. Volvo also has plans to develop models powered by a new Twin Engine plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The automaker’s new CMA platform will also play a key part in Volvo’s goal to design vehicles that will eliminate vehicular fatalities and serious injuries by 2020. With semi-autonomous driver-assist and safety technologies, the automaker hopes to make driving safer than ever before.
“Each member of our product family has its own distinct character, just like the members of a real family. CMA has helped us to capture something special, something youthful in our new concept cars. They have an energy, a disruptive and engaging urban character that makes them stand out amongst the crowd. This is the flavour of small Volvos to come,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President, Design, at Volvo Car Group.
