Volvo's Vision of Luxury and Innovation: The 2011 Volvo Concept You
In the continuing saga of Volvo's ambitious journey to redefine its luxury sedan line, a bold new player has entered the field. Following on the heels of the Concept Universe, Volvo has unveiled the Concept You, a model that aims to harmoniously meld elegant Scandinavian design with innovative smart pad technology. This new concept car promises to be a pivotal milestone in Volvo's evolution.
A New Era in Design and Technology
The Concept You offers an interesting blend of sleek exterior design and high-tech interior that seeks to provide an unprecedented level of command and convenience to the driver. With a coupe-like exterior and a fully outfitted interior, this concept car seeks to offer a first-rate experience to luxury sedan customers, pushing the envelope of both craftsmanship and intuitive technology.
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the Concept You is its advanced smart pad technology. Volvo appears to have taken inspiration from the current technological landscape, using touch screens to replace traditional buttons and controls, aiming to provide an intuitive and uncluttered driving experience. This endeavor may change the way drivers interact with their vehicles, making vehicle manuals an artifact of the past.
Reimagining the Cockpit
Volvo has pushed for a driver-centric approach in the Concept You. The control center is divided into four main areas: a digital Driver Information Monitor (DIM), a windscreen head-up display, an upper center console touch-screen, and a touch-screen nestled between the two individual rear seats. There's even a steering wheel made of wood and leather with integrated touch-screen paddles.
These innovations represent a significant shift in the driving experience, with touch screens and sensor technology taking center stage. For example, an upper center console touch-screen springs into action when the driver gazes upon it, thanks to hidden infrared cameras that track eye movements. Hand movement sensors trigger the Infotainment system's control mode, allowing access to different features based on whether the driver or front passenger interacts with the screen. Volvo seems to have invested significantly in creating a cockpit that's not only visually appealing but also technologically advanced.
Reinventing In-Car Entertainment
Music lovers would likely be intrigued by the Concept You's unique sound system, integrated with Alpine's high-end technology. Volvo debuts an innovative "FreshAir" subwoofer, utilizing outside air to create what the company claims to be the "ultimate listening experience". This push to innovate even extends to Volvo's weight-saving efforts, with smaller sound system units that deliver superior sound quality.
Scandinavian Luxury in Every Detail
The Concept You presents a meticulously designed interior that channels Volvo's commitment to Scandinavian design philosophy. This translates into an uncluttered, user-focused, and uncomplicated environment filled with luxurious materials. The seating arrangement echoes this ethos, with a driver-focused front and a serene, relaxed rear, exuding a gradient of calm from dark to light as you move from front to rear.
The materials used in the interior are clearly chosen to impart a sense of high-end luxury. The individual seats are made of chrome-free leather and ecological suede. The interior features handcrafted pieces of walnut, coupled with a blend of leather panels, suede roof lining, and carefully selected aluminum details.
Mastering the Art of Timeless Design
Volvo's partnership with world-famous Danish design house Georg Jensen is clearly evident in the Concept You. The inspiration is visible in the details of the 21-inch polished aluminium wheels, the grille, and the innovative headlamps that emulate the simplicity, elegance, and superb craftsmanship synonymous with Scandinavian design. This focus on timeless luxury and handcrafted quality may well set the stage for the future design ethos of Volvo.
Volvo's Concept of Tomorrow
In essence, the Volvo Concept You is a testament to Volvo's commitment to innovation, design excellence, and technological evolution. By striving to integrate advanced technology with timeless Scandinavian design, Volvo seems to be setting a new benchmark in the realm of luxury sedans. The Concept You represents not just a vehicle, but Volvo's vision of the future of automotive design and technology.
