“We can offer our customers the large car's properties in a compact format. This, combined with an exciting design and exceptional road manners, makes the new S40 sedan and V50 wagon highly potent challengers in their segments," says Hans-Olov Olsson, Volvo Car President and CEO.

Expanding the Volvo brand toward a younger age spectrum is an important part of Volvo Cars' strategy +óGé¼GÇ£ and it is naturally particularly important that the S40 and V50 models appeals to youthful buyers.

“We want to attract customers into the Volvo family as early as possible, and this all-new S40 and new V50 will definitely attract a new, younger buyer," comments Hans-Olov Olsson.

Annual target 70,000 S40s, 70,000 V50s
Volvo Car estimates global market demand for the all-new S40 to reach 70,000 cars, with approximately 20,000 S40s to be sold in the United States. Sales targets in Australia are conservatively set at around 400 S40s in the remaining half year of 2004.

S40 will be Volvo Car Australia's most popular model, and possibly the most important model. It is the step-in point to the Volvo car range that now includes the new XC90, the new XC70 Lifestyle Edition, the just-released Activity S60 2.5T and V70 2.5T, as well as the impressive V50 wagon.

Volvo Car Australia predicts V50 sales volumes at 200 vehicles in the remaining half year of 2004.

S40 and V50 are both built by Volvo at a recently renovated production plant in Ghent, Belgium. Volvo's production operations in Born in the Netherlands cease with the phasing out of the previous Volvo S40 and V40 models.

Volvo Car has invested $540 million (340 million Euros) in the Ghent factory, which when fully extended will be the company's largest production plant with an annual capacity of 270,000 cars.

In addition to the new S40 and new V50, the Ghent factory will also build the S60 sedan, while the production of the Volvo V70 wagon will be moved to the Torslanda factory in G+â-¦teborg, Sweden. The Volvo XC70, Volvo S80 luxury sedan and Volvo XC90 are also built in Torslanda.

More for your money in S40 2.4 and V50 2.4
The new S40 and new V50 will be priced slightly higher than the current Volvo S40 and V40. The step-in pricing is more than compensated by a higher entry-point specification and more thrilling performance.

In terms of buying power, the new S40 and new V50 are equipped as standard with features such as climate control air-conditioning, cruise control, performance sound system (with six speakers and a single CD), integrated rear seat child booster cushions, high-tech Dala T-Tec upholstery, and convenience features such as home safe lighting and puddle lights integrated into the side mirrors.

Let's mention too that the step-in S40 and V50 models are now powered by a refined 2.4-litre inline five-cylinder engine producing 125kW and 230Nm of torque. The power offering increases by 25 percent and torque increases by 21 percent in the new S40.

Also, the standard wheel size is 16x6.5-inch (alloy) with a 205-55 91W tyre.

Most of the options that can be specified on the larger Volvo S80 and S60 are also available to buyers of the new S40 and V50. This applies, for instance, to an integrated telephone, navigation system and the DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control) anti-skid system.

NEW S40 SEDAN AND NEW V50 WAGON DESIGNED TO EXPRESS POWER AND PERFORMANCE!

These are the words of Henrik Otto, Volvo Car's Design Director. He emphasises the crisp, sporty lines of Volvo's new medium-size sedan and wagon. They are compact and bestow a dynamic design and premium-car feel. Henrik Otto and his team obtained their inspiration from classic Scandinavian design typified by clean shapes and open surfaces, airiness and intimate interplay between form and function.

Exterior evolution +óGé¼GÇ£ interior revolution
The exterior is an evolution of Volvo Car's modern body design, while the interior is something of a revolution. Minimalism maximises the large-car impression despite the compact exterior dimensions.

The interior is built up of several visual layers. The first layer shows as an edge trimming around the entire interior, along the side windows and the windscreen. The impression is of being safely ensconced in a cocoon.

The next layer is the instrument panel. It has a clean, uncluttered layout, with air vents and other details positioned as islands in an otherwise free area. The instrument panel has a new type of surface, a texture conveying a feel of cutting-edge technical innovation rather than classic leather-trimmed furniture. This special surface texture separates the instrument panel visually from the cabin's outer edge trim.

Elegant and spacious
The most distinctive new feature in the passenger compartment is the unique, super-slim Floating Centre Console that elegantly links together the tunnel console with the instrument panel. The Floating Centre Console constitutes the interior's topmost layer. It is further described in a separate press release.

There is another console in the roof, echoing the Floating Centre Console and continuing the theme of the car's central nerve system.

High-tech T-Tec upholstery
The interior is available in choice of three shades: off-black, lava grey and quartz. Each interior colour is available with a range of matching upholstery colours.

Leather is standard on SE and T5 models. The most innovative upholstery is Dala, a ribbed textile with T-Tec elements and visible light-coloured seams. T-Tec is a material specially developed for Volvo Cars and inspired by sportswear and reinforces the cars' dynamic skills. T-Tec is the standard material in step-in models of S40 and V50.

Impressive from the inside out
New S40 and new V50 are shorter, but at the same time wider and taller than their predecessors. Overall, both cars offer more interior space. The bonnet is short and there is a pronounced cab-forward profile. This eager stance, as though the car is constantly urging ahead, creates a sensation of speed even when at a standstill and at the same time creates additional space for a long passenger cabin and generous rear-seat legroom.

The track and wheelbase have been extended, virtually putting a wheel at each corner. This contributes to the sporty appearance and gives the car stable on-the-road behaviour. The long wheelbase also makes it possible to fit conveniently wide rear doors.

Strong, agile form
Viewed from above, S40 and V50 have a rounded front, a broad midsection and a narrowing tail. Together with the broad shoulders, this shape forges a compact and athletic impression, and it also contributes to excellent aerodynamics of 0.31 (S40) and 0.32 (V50).

The doors are convex in profile, unlike the concave shape of the doors on larger Volvo models. This convex curvature reinforces the compact appearance and enhances the cabin's width.

The windscreen wipers are of an entirely new type, concealed under the trailing edge of the bonnet. There are turn indicator repeaters integrated into the door mirrors, easily visible from the sides.

In order to further emphasise the sporty nature of S40 and V50, Volvo has designed an accessory package consisting of more pronounced sill mouldings and spoilers. A number of newly designed 18-inch aluminium wheels and 215/45 rubber are also available as accessories.

Genuine Volvo identity
S40 and V50 cast a distinctive silhouette +óGé¼GÇ£ yet their styling honours a clear Volvo identity. The S40 grille with its familiar diagonal has a horizontal mesh pattern in a dark-grey metallic colour, echoing the Volvo S60 and S80. The bonnet expresses the pronounced V-shape. The body's contour lines +óGé¼GÇ£ the classic Volvo 'shoulders' along either side of the body +óGé¼GÇ£ are inherited from the rest of the Volvo family.

Those broad shoulders are a modern Volvo feature that signal power and safety. From the rear, the distinctive tail lamps show with the utmost clarity that what lies ahead is a Volvo.

The V50 is equally as identifiable as a Volvo. The vertical grille design and silver-shadow headlamp colour give the V50 an individual frontal appearance different from the S40 +óGé¼GÇ£ with darker grille and dark headlamp colour.

Tale of the tape
New S40 and new V50 are shorter overall than their predecessors, but they are larger in every other respect:

How new S40 compares with previous S40:
Length: 4468mm (-48mm shorter)
Width: 1770mm (+54mm wider)
Height: 1452mm (+44mm taller)
Wheelbase: 2640mm (+78mm longer)
Track front: 1535mm (+63mm wider)
Track rear: 1531mm (+57mm wider)

How new V50 compares with V40.
Length: 4514mm (-2mm shorter)
Width: 1770mm (+54mm wider)
Height: 1452mm (+27mm taller) without roof rails
Wheelbase: 2640mm (+78mm longer)
Track front: 1535mm (+63mm wider)
Track rear: 1531mm (+57mm wider)

Because headroom has increased, the driver's H point in V50 is higher than in V40. This gives the driver more comfort and better over-bonnet visibility.

INTERIOR STYLING

Thin Floating Centre Console provides a big visual impact

• Sources of inspiration outside the car world
• Minimalist product design
• Extremely slim Floating Centre Console with functional design
• The ultimate design icon of S40 and V50
• Discreet theatre lighting promotes a cosy interior

The S40 introduces an entirely new approach to interior design +óGé¼GÇ£ with the unique stand-alone Floating Centre Console. This is an entirely new design direction in the car industry, specially developed for the new S40 and V50 and previewed recently in the Volvo VCC (Versatility Concept Car).

One of the interior design challenges was to provide a perception of space and airiness despite the compact body. This required new approaches and a decision was taken to tackle the design work from an entirely fresh angle. The design team turned its attention to many sources of inspiration beyond the car world.

“If you want to be innovative, there is little point in looking at what the competition is doing. It is far more valuable to look at what they're not doing," says Henrik Otto.

A chair, an idea, a revolution in interior design
A natural influence was the Scandinavian design tradition of clean surfaces and uncluttered lines +óGé¼GÇ£ along with a natural lightness of material and structure. A couple of excellent examples are the world-famous designer Arne Jacobsen's classic compression-moulded chairs Series 7 and the Ant chair, along with Alvar Aalto's typically Nordic functional architecture and furniture design.

Trends in high-tech quality products such as audio systems, cameras and computers were also a rich source of inspiration. Not just in terms of form and function but also for ways of using and combining new materials +óGé¼GÇ£ and of making them part of the overall experience.

These ventures into parallel environments provided inspiration, and they also formed the very foundation for how the interior of the new S40 and new V50 would be designed.

Minimalist expression for maximum impact
In order to best utilise the various materials available and link them together in a natural way, the interior was built up in layers, with the Floating Centre Console as the topmost, free-standing feature. With its prominent position, it constitutes the car's foremost control panel, like the remote control in the modern home entertainment system.

Behind the Floating Centre Console there is a practical storage compartment for personal items, easily accessible from both sides. This space is discreetly illuminated, further enhancing the impression of a free-standing stacked panel +óGé¼GÇ£ and the feeling of intelligent function.

Since a modern audio system with a CD player does not require as much lateral space as the older cassette player units, width too could be minimised. The result is a very slim panel with a minimalist appearance, further contributing to a particularly noticeable sense of interior space.

“The panel is the ultimate icon of the car and a revolution in itself. It required considerable ingenuity and hard work to find a technical solution for this super-slim format," says Guy Burgoyne, interior designer.

Four décor levels
Like the other panels in the car, the Floating Centre Console can be customised with a variety of décor panels. The choice allows the buyer to tailor the car's interior to suit individual tastes.

Floating Centre Console décor effects:

• S40 2.4 and V50 2.4: a grey finish
• S40 2.4 SE and V50 2.4 SE: a wood-effect finish
• S40 T5 and V50 T5: a brushed aluminium finish (genuine aluminium)
• Optional on S40 and V50: a translucent, funky Iced Aqua finish

Multi-function controls
The controls in the new Floating Centre Console have an ergonomic and functional design. Most offer multiple functions in a logical and convenient way. The top half of the control panel is used to operate the audio system and the integrated phone, while the lower half controls the climate system.

The main system functions are regulated via the four large rotary controls. All the minor function buttons are collected together in a panel that resembles a hand-held remote control. All the push-buttons have a marked profile to avoid pressing two buttons at the same time.

The audio system in S40 and V50 can be specified with the Dolby Surround Pro Logic II, the same level of high-class car audio technology that was introduced in the Volvo XC90.

Theatre lighting
The interior of the new S40 and new V50 has a number of discreet lighting points. The overall effect is of theatre lighting, with soft illumination of various parts of the interior. The Floating Centre Console, for instance, is constantly illuminated from the roof, so softly and gently that the light does not distract the driver. The light is only noticed when the driver moves a hand towards a control, thus assisting in operation in the dark. This is yet another sign of the consideration and creativity that characterises the design of the new S40 and new V50.

SAFETY PLAYS LARGE IN COMPACT S40 AND V50

In terms of occupant protection, size doesn't matter. Volvo safety engineers were challenged in many ways by the compact S40 sedan and V50 wagon. The goal was always to make the all-new S40 and the new V50 as safe for occupants as is the larger S80 sedan; the challenging goal was accomplished thanks to:

• New, patented front architecture
• Four different grades of steel
• Clever engine compartment packing
• Re-engineered collapsible steering column

The front structure should deform under high impact force; however, there is a dilemma. This force must be lower than the maximum that the safety cage surrounding the occupants can handle. This translates to mean that collision performance is highly dependent on just how strong the safety cage can be made.

In a traditional front structure, incoming impact forces are transferred from the side members down to the sill and the floor. During this transfer of the impact force, large bending moments are created. These bending moments limit the maximum force that the side member can be designed to withstand.

Therefore, in order not to crush the back-up structure, the force in the side members has to be kept relatively low. The energy that the side member can absorb is a function of how long it is and the force level it can handle. Low force capability gives a long side member +óGé¼GÇ£ creating an additional challenge when designing a smaller car.

New, patented front architecture
S40 and V50 have a new front architecture for which Volvo has the patent. In S40 and in V50, the forces from the deforming side members are transferred into a web of longitudinal and lateral members that form the front part of the safety cage. This web can be compared to an old-fashioned railroad bridge where zigzag members absorb all forces in the optimum way. With this architecture, we can allow the side members to deform at a higher load. This means that the same amount of energy can be absorbed with shorter side members. The complete front end can therefore be made shorter.

We have used High-Strength Steel in the body area that absorbs the collision energy. This grade of steel is optimal for deformation at a very high load. In the areas surrounding the occupants, where we want very little or no deformation at all, we have used extra-high-strength steel. This steel grade is very strong but still ductile enough to make sure that the safety cage deforms in a controlled manner.

Each component has a pre-determined parking place S40 and V50 are thus designed to absorb incoming collision energy and to manage the front-end deformation in a controlled way.

The only potential problem was presented by the rather large five-cylinder engine in the compact S40 and V50 body. "Normally when you design an engine, you make sure that it fits into the car. When we designed the engine for S40 and V50, we made sure it would be slim enough to fit into the engine compartment even after a collision," says Ragnar Crona.

The five-cylinder engine powering S40 and V50 is a newly revised variant of Volvo's five-cylinder inline engine, and it is designed to be extremely slim to allow for the largest possible crumple zone. This new engine gives the occupants more of a survival zone compared to previous Volvo engines.

Everything you find under the bonnet of S40 and V50 has a predetermined position after a frontal impact, piling up in an organised way ahead of the safety cage surrounding the vehicle's occupants.

More space inside
We have also increased the space inside the car during an impact. In a crash, S40 and V50 steering column will collapse more than in previous models. This allows the driver to move further forward inside the car during the crash without compromising safety. As a result, the belt and airbag are better able to help limit the forces imposed on the driver, thus bringing his or her body to a "softer" stop.

Compact car safety
The patented front structure, the engine bay packaging, the combination of different-grade steel and the re-engineered collapsible steering column give the Volvo S40 and V50 a remarkably good front crumple zone. In fact, in terms of frontal collision protection, this clever engineering puts the new compact Volvo sedan and wagon on a par with the current Volvo S80, recognised worldwide as one of the safest cars on the market. It is not possible to change the laws of physics, but new technologies can certainly be harnessed to make compact cars even safer.

Volvo safety engineers challenge the laws of physics “While we cannot change the laws of physics, our aim of building cars that are the safest in their class applies to all models, irrespective of size," says Ingrid Skogsmo, head of the Volvo Car Safety Centre.

• Developed and tested in the world's most advanced safety centre
• New, patented frontal structure with several crumple zones
• Four steel grades interact for optimal deformation
• The same side-impact protection system as in larger Volvo models
• Frontal design with integrated protection for other road users
• 68 percent greater torsional rigidity for all-new S40 compared to current S40
• 34 percent greater torsional rigidity for new V50 compared to current V40
• Unique intelligent driver information system +óGé¼GÇ£ IDIS
• High level of theft protection

S40 and V50, despite their compact size, offer extremely high safety levels +óGé¼GÇ£ both protective and preventative. Volvo's primary objective has been reached; that is to engineer the compact S40 and V50 to the same high safety level achieved in the current S80 model.

This is possible for several reasons, including a very stiff body, a new frontal structure and a new intelligent system for driver information.

The safety systems have been developed and tested in the Volvo Car Safety Centre, the most advanced facility of its kind in the world. About 40 full-scale tests have been performed to help ensure that all the on-board components interact.

Crumple zones that employ different grades of steel
In the development of S40 and V50, the engineers started with the crash safety baseline set by the large S80 +óGé¼GÇ£ with the aim of reaching the same high level with the new compact body.

In a compact car body, the preconditions for efficient deformation are different to those of a large body. Since the necessary deformation is absorbed within a shorter total distance, the various materials' properties must be exploited to the maximum so as to absorb as much of the incoming energy as possible.

“A tough challenge, one that we approached in an entirely new way," confirms Ingrid Skogsmo.

The frontal body structure was divided into several zones, each with a different task in the deformation process. The outer zones are responsible for most of the deformation. The closer the collision forces get to the passenger compartment, the less the materials used deform. The objective is that the passenger compartment should remain intact in most collisions.

To give each zone the relevant properties, different grades of steel are used in different areas. Four different steel grades are used. In addition to conventional bodywork steel, three different grades of high-strength steel are employed: high strength steel, extra high-strength steel and ultra high-strength steel.

The zonale system enables the collision forces to be absorbed in a highly ingenious and effective manner.

Low-speed deformation zone
The front bumper incorporates an extremely rigid cross-member of boron steel (Ultra High-Strength Steel). The attachments to the longitudinal members of the body are designed in the form of 'crash boxes', which help absorb the forces generated by a low-speed collision without damage to the rest of the body structure. The crash boxes can be replaced easily at reasonable cost.

High-speed deformation zone
The straight sections of the side members are made of High-Strength Steel, a very ductile grade of material, which is optimised for high energy absorption. This is the zone that accounts for most of the deformation in a collision.

In addition, Volvo has opted to include upper side members also in the compact S40 and V50 since they provide significant occupant protection if the vehicle should collide, for example, with a truck platform or a loading pier.

Back-up zone
The section member that turns outward toward the A-post is designed to act as a barrier for the cabin space and as a back-up reducing deformation. The design also helps minimise the risk of a front wheel penetrating the interior. The wheel instead helps absorb the collision forces. This section is extremely rigid and is made of extra high-strength steel.

Three-way attachment
A rigid cross-member connects the A-posts and lower side members. On each side they form an extremely rigid three-way attachment, which very strongly helps to maintain the cabin space in a severe crash. The new front structure is one of Volvo's many patented safety designs.

Compact engines contribute to crash safety
Owing to efficient packaging; the engines in S40 and V50 have been slimmed by 200mm. Since the engines are installed transversely, the reduced width creates greater space between engine and passenger compartment. In a collision, the engine can be pushed no less than 150mm rearwards before the engine block comes into contact with the cross-member near the bulkhead.

S40 and V50 also shares the same type of interior safety systems as found on the S60 and S80 models.

The steering column can be deformed up to 140mm. When deformed, the steering column moves horizontally, to provide the optimal airbag position for this vehicle.

S40 and V50 share many safety features with the S80 model:

• Collapsible pedals
• Dual-stage airbags
• Seat belt pretensioners for the front seats and rear outboard seats
• Force limiter for the front seat belts
• Belt reminder for the front seats and rear seats

Side Impact Protection System
All-new S40 is 50 mm wider than its predecessor, and new V50 is 54mm wider than V40. This additional width creates added space for deformation in a collision. In other respects, S40 and V50 have the same type of side impact protection as found on the S80 Volvo model, with SIPS (Side Impact Protection System), side-impact airbags and IC (inflatable curtains). These curtains are designed to provide enhanced occupant protection in rollover accidents, by deflating more slowly (approximately 3 seconds) than the front airbags.

The side airbags are larger than in the previous S40 and V40 models so as to help provide more effective protection at hip and chest height.

Several features contribute to the stiffer body and help reduce side intrusion:

• Reinforced, transversely installed tubular beam between the A-pillars
• Diagonally installed beams of ultra high-strength steel in the doors
• B-pillars have been significantly reinforced and are dimensioned to provide enhanced protection

S40 and V50 have been designed to provide the highest level of occupant protection in a rear-end collision too. Volvo's system for avoiding neck injuries +óGé¼GÇ£ WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System) +óGé¼GÇ£ is one of the most effective on the market. In the event of a severe impact from the rear, the seat backrest and head restraint accompany the movements of the occupant's body.

The seats and backrests are of a particularly robust design. They are dimensioned to withstand high loads from items such as unsecured luggage, while at the same time they are designed to yield in severe crashes where a balance of strength and flexibility is important for occupant safety.

“Our seats are far sturdier than those usually found in the compact segment," says Ingrid Skogsmo.

Protection for other road users
The design of all-new S40 and new V50 front is characterised by clean, smooth surfaces and rounded corners. The curves and panels are shaped to reduce the risk of injury to pedestrians and cyclists in the event of an accident.

Furthermore, the front has an energy-absorbing structure ahead of the bumper so as to help reduce the risk of leg injuries.

The bonnet and front fenders are designed to absorb collision energy. This helps reduce the risk of head injuries. In addition, the compact new petrol engines leave a generous 70mm of free space between the cylinder head and bonnet.

Built for children too
Just like the rest of the Volvo range, the all-new S40 and V50 were developed with a keen focus on children. The body's safety structure and interior safety systems are designed and dimensioned to help protect the youngest occupants too. Both rear outer seats are fitted with integrated child booster cushions for children above three years of age.

Child booster cushions are a standard feature in all S40 and V50 models except T5, where it is offered as a $550 option.

PREVENTIVE SAFETY
The all-new S40 body is 68 percent stiffer than that of its predecessor. The new V50 is 34 percent more torsionally rigid than that of the out-going V40.

This torsional rigidity contributes to stable, predictable and consistent behaviour on the road. The cars' chassis design, with broad track and long wheelbase, also has a positive effect on stability.

• Front track is 1535mm (63mm wider than the previous S40 model).
• Rear track is 1531mm (57mm wider)
• Wheelbase is 2640mm (78mm longer)

The suspension is independent at all four corners, with spring struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. The rear suspension provides a certain degree of passive steering to counteract any tendency to skid.

Excellent braking
S40 and V50 have extremely powerful ABS brakes +óGé¼GÇ£ with electronic brake-force distribution to the rear wheels and automatic panic-braking assistance +óGé¼GÇ£ EBA (Emergency Brake Assistance). The front wheels feature ventilated discs. The disc size is dependent on engine power and vehicle weight (diameter up to 320mm).

Projector-type headlamps
The headlamps feature projector-type low beams. The concentrated beam of light is surrounded by a "halo" which helps oncoming drivers judge the distance to the car.

Bi-Xenon gas discharge lamps for high and low beam are available as an option ($2250) on all S40 and V50 models except T5 +óGé¼GÇ£ where Bi-Xenon lamps are standard equipment.

Additional side-mounted turn indicators in the door mirrors and integrated side-marker lights in the front and rear lamps make S40 and V50 easy to see from the side too.

Ergonomic driver's environment
An ergonomically designed seating position with all the instruments and controls in just the right position makes for safer progress. In this respect, S40 and V50 continue a renowned Volvo tradition. It has a comfortable and conveniently operated driver's seat, an adjustable steering wheel and a logically laid out instrument panel.

Steering wheel-mounted controls for the audio system and cruise control add further to driving safety.

Security
Volvo's holistic view of safety encompasses not just protective and preventative safety, but also personal security. S40 and V50 are designed to provide effective protection for occupants and their property, both while on the move and when the car is parked.

The level of theft protection is very high, as a result of close co-operation with Thatcham, the world-leading automotive research and technology centre.

S40 and V50 are equipped with a number of protective functions:

• Electronic immobiliser
• Electronic anti-theft "marking"
• Uniquely identified control modules
• Audio system as an integral part of the on-board electrical system

In addition to this, S40 and V50 have a sophisticated locking system with a wide range of scope for personal settings:

• Unlocking of doors +óGé¼GÇ£ all doors or only the driver's door
• Automatic locking of the doors after moving off +óGé¼GÇ£ with an option to cancel
• Indicator blink when unlocking or locking +óGé¼GÇ£ with an option to cancel
• Variable timing for Follow-Me-Home and Approach Light +óGé¼GÇ£ 30, 60 or 90 seconds

The remote can also open all windows, i.e. to cool down the interior on a hot day. It will also close the sunroof and all windows.

S40 and V50 can also be equipped with laminated door windows, an unusual feature in a compact car. Laminated glass is extremely difficult to smash and provides enhanced protection against break-ins.

PERFORMANCE LIVES UNDER THE BONNET

S40 and V50 are offered in Australia with choice of two engines:

A naturally aspirated 2.4-litre inline five cylinder developing 125kW and 230Nm A low-boost turbocharged 2.5-litre inline five-cylinder developing 162kW and 320Nm

The powertrain in S40 sedan and V50 wagon is characterised by:

• New generation of compact low-friction engines
• Compact format benefits collision safety
• Five cylinders and large displacement
• Long stoke enhances torque and throttle response
• Six-speed close-ratio manual gearbox from S60 R and V70 R
• Meticulously balanced chassis and accurate steering

Despite the S40's and V50's compact dimensions, a transverse five-cylinder inline engine lives under the bonnet +óGé¼GÇ£ a unique performance feature in the compact segment. Compared to its European competitors, S40 and V50 set the power benchmark for the compact luxury segment.

Volvo powertrain and safety engineers have worked together to develop an engine that is quite compact in outside dimensions but quite large in internal capacity. The result is an S40 and a V50 offering high performance and excellent driveability. The engine's compact dimensions also advantage the car's excellent crash safety.

The chassis has been developed in parallel with the new engines to provide on-road dynamics exceeding those of Volvo's larger sedan models.

Slimmer is better and safer
The new petrol engines are a further development of the low-friction engines that power the large Volvo models. The new generation is named RNC, with C indicating Compact. Most of the engine's external components have been designed and packaged so that the engine installation takes exceptionally little space.

• Exhaust manifold outlets are angled down towards the engine block
• Manifolds on the turbo engine is cast together with the turbo unit housing for added compactness
• Inlet manifold is compact-cast in fibreglass-reinforced plastic and is routed up over the engine. The fuel injectors are installed in an aluminium section for safety reasons
• Alternator, water pump and air conditioning compressor are of compact design and are very efficiently packaged
• The air conditioning compressor is relocated and well protected

Keep 'em separated
The RNC engine is 200mm slimmer and 25mm shorter than the five-cylinder engines found in the large Volvo models. An additional benefit of these 'sizeable' modifications is a reduction in engine weight. The carryover effect is an engine range that gives the all-new S40 new-found levels of performance. Combined with Volvo's architecture +óGé¼GÇ£ transverse engine installation +óGé¼GÇ£ it also contributes to high crash safety since there is added space for deformation in the engine compartment.

In a collision, the engine can be pushed 150mm to the rear before the crankshaft comes into contact with the cross-member near the bulkhead.

There is 70mm of free space above the engine between the cylinder head and bonnet. This allows the bonnet to crumple gently, thus reducing the risk of head injuries if a pedestrian or a cyclist should collide with the car.

High kilowatts and revolutions without vibrations
The new five-cylinder inline engines have a displacement of 2.4 and 2.5 litres. The five cylinders and large displacement provide high torque from low engine revs +óGé¼GÇ£ along with swift acceleration.

Both five-cylinder engines are undersquare +óGé¼GÇ£ meaning the stroke is quite long in relation to the bore. The 2.4-litre engine achieves 2435cc with an 83mm bore and a 90mm stroke.

The turbocharged 2.5-litre engine achieves 2521cc with an 83mm bore and a 93.2mm stroke.

In both engines, the leverage provided by the long stroke has a positive effect on the torque curve and on low-rev driveability. What is more, a five-cylinder engine with a long stroke has a more relaxed, more pleasant character owing to its low vibration level and smooth operation.

The engines in the Volvo S40 and V50 share the same technology as the units that power the larger Volvo cars:

• Four valves per cylinder and dual overhead camshafts +óGé¼GÇ£ for high power and alert throttle response
• Variable camshaft timing (CVVT) +óGé¼GÇ£ for high power and high torque in combination with lower consumption and reduced emissions
• Electronic engine management system with precise and adaptive control +óGé¼GÇ£ for efficient combustion and good performance

More kilowatts versus kilograms
The light S40 T5 is the sportiest model in the range. It has a 2.5-litre petrol engine breathing through a light-pressure turbocharger. The turbo system is tuned to provide exceptional torque from exceptionally low revs. Peak torque is reached at 1500rpm and holds firm to 4800rpm, and turbo lag is non-existent.

The T5 engine offers a maximum of 162kW and 320Nm of torque. The S40 T5 and V50 T5 will later become available in combination with all-wheel drive. The AWD version will be launched in Australia in early 2005. It will use the same type of light-weight, compact Haldex coupling as found on Volvo's larger AWD models such as the S60 R and XC90.

S40 and V50 range of engines

Volvo Car Australia will not offer a diesel engine in S40 nor V50 in the short term. However, Volvo Car Australia is considering the addition of a diesel engine to the range in the longer term. We believe the Australian luxury compact car buyer is not yet interested in diesel, despite recent legislation to improve the quality of diesel fuel.

Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions

Transmissions taken from the S60 R
The six-speed manual gearbox developed for the Volvo S60 R and V70 R now makes its entry in the Volvo S40 T5 and V50 T5. The six forward ratios are spread to combine swift acceleration with high top speed. The gearbox has triple synchromesh and a reassuringly distinct change pattern with a precise gate.

The normally aspirated engines are mated to a new generation of Volvo's five-speed manual gearbox. It has been further developed with triple synchromesh for faster changes and distinct, positive feel. The five-speed manual is offered in S40 2.4 and V50 2.4 as standard and as a no-cost option in S40 2.4 SE and V50 2.4 SE.

Adaptive automatic transmission
The five-speed automatic transmission for the Volvo S40 and V50 is the same as that used in larger Volvo models. It is a five-speed unit with an adaptive gear changing pattern; in other words, it adapts to the current driving style.

Volvo powertrain engineers have invested considerable time in matching driveshafts and universal joints to the high engine power outputs to ensure smooth, snatch-free power delivery under acceleration. Clutch feel, manual shift feel and overall refinement of the powertrain were a priority.

Chassis with large-car properties
S40 and V50 have been developed to exceed the handling performance and steering control of previous Volvo models. Chassis turning experience gained from the advanced S60 R formed the basis for the new compact sedan and wagon.

"A modern Volvo should obey the driver's slightest command +óGé¼GÇ£ immediately and without fuss," emphasises Peter Ewerstrand, the project manager for the all-new S40. "It should be as enjoyable to drive as it is safe. In chassis tuning S40 and V50, we had particularly high ambitions when the project got under way. And we're more than pleased with the result."

Independent suspension with a multi-link system at the rear provides a superb combination of comfort and consistent response. The wider track and longer wheelbase, compared to the current Volvo S40 model, also contribute to the car's stable behaviour on the road.

Front suspension geometry has been carefully calculated to provide quick and precise steering response and minimise torque steer. Not such an easy achievement considering the S40 and V50 both deliver impressive power from their five-cylinder engines.

The steering is electro-hydraulic with light, distinct and controlled feedback through the steering wheel. "The new powertrain and the carefully matched chassis in combination with the body's exceptional torsional rigidity, make for a particularly pleasant driving experience. This is a car you'll truly look forward to driving whenever you get the chance," promises Ewerstrand.

IDIS +óGé¼GÇ£ HOLDS THE PHONE

Intelligent Driver Information System (IDIS) helps the driver avoid distractions in busy situations

• Electronic secretary
• Delays incoming calls in busy driving situations
• Prepared for a future with more on-board information and safety systems

Intelligent Driver Information System is an innovative feature introduced by Volvo Car in S40 sedan and V50 wagon.

IDIS helps the driver prioritise the incoming information in the car depending on the current driving situation. If necessary, during high driver activity, IDIS steps in and delays incoming phone calls and other information until the driving situation is calmer. As such, IDIS functions as an electronic secretary would.

IDIS consists of two parts: a workload estimator and an information manager. The workload estimator continuously monitors the driver's activity by checking on such parameters as steering wheel movement, speed variations and the turn signal indicators. This information is processed and at a certain workload level, the information manager then makes the decision to delay the incoming information.

The driver's calculated workload level is the basis from which the information manager prioritises the flow of information in the car. Other parameters are time and the ranking of the various categories.

Information vital to safety is never delayed. Nor does the driver ever lose any information +óGé¼GÇ£ it is only presented a few seconds later, when the workload is somewhat lower.

Measuring driver activity
In a Volvo, the Multiplex computerised electrical system contains most of the information that is supplied by various sensors and controls in the car. Examples of the type of information used to continuously calculate the driver's workload are:

• Acceleration
• Speed reduction
• Turn signal indicators
• Steering wheel angle
• Reverse gear engagement
• Infotainment controls

Rapid-fire reactions read as one
An 'event' is when a signal exceeds its threshold value. However, it is more common for several different events to occur in rapid sequence with only a brief time interval between each. To overcome this, IDIS has a built-in delay function that holds up the information for a short while even after an event is completed. In this way, the system detects driving situations where the workload drops only temporarily. The system interprets a rapid series of events as one and the workload as high throughout this situation, so information that is not safety-related will still be delayed.

How IDIS works
When entering a T-junction, the driver is stressed by the fact that the phone rings just as his attention to the driving situation is most needed.

Although the traffic situation requires his full attention, he still answers the phone, if only just to silence it.

In this example, the driver is not focusing his full attention in terms of safety, and the driver probably does not feel comfortable with the situation. With IDIS in the car, the driver simply does not receive the incoming call while he is negotiating the T-junction. IDIS accepts the call but silences it and delays alerting the driver until he has completed his turn and his workload is lower.

Calls delayed for up to five seconds
With IDIS activated, phone calls can be delayed for up to five seconds. After that, calls are handled in the same way as if the driver were already speaking on the phone, that is to say by either issuing a "busy" signal or by transferring the call to a voice-mail function, depending on the settings registered with the operator. In the event of call transfer, the driver always receives a message that he has missed a call. That message will be displayed once his workload has lessened.

Helps the driver prioritise
The only information that comes through the information manager in high workload situations is time-critical safety-related messages. Information such as car messages, incoming SMS text messages and incoming phone calls is delayed accordingly.

The system is designed to allow the driver to concentrate on the road during driving situations that require his full attention.

IDIS is a standard safety feature fitted to S40 and V50, and it is always active unless manually disengaged. The driver can also choose to disengage only the phone's IDIS function. With the IDIS method of handling phone calls, Volvo takes a further step towards safer use of in-car phones.

Increasingly useful in the future
The input used today is sufficient to manage the information being handled in the S40 and V50. As more information is channelled into the system, there will be heightened demands concerning calculation of the driver's workload. Volvo will continue to focus sharply on the development of these forthcoming generations of IDIS.

VOLVO WATCHES ITS Ps AND Qs +óGé¼GÇ£ THAT'S POLLUTANTS AND QUALITY

• Materials and technologies selected to minimise risk to health
• New engine technology gives environmental benefits
• Premair+é-«
• Pollen filter is standard
• Interior Air Quality System a new option in the compact Volvo
• Environmental Product Declaration available from start
• Careful selection of materials and technologies

Volvo builds S40 and V50 in one of the most up-to-date production plants in the world. The manufacturing methods, as well as the materials and substances used in production, are selected to minimise the risk to health, both to production personnel and to people outside the plant.

For example Volvo Car's manufacturing processes of S40 sedan and V50 wagon at the Ghent, Belgium plant consciously uses chromium-free body material pre-treatment, water-borne exterior paints and CFC-free materials.

The S40's and the V50's on-board technologies are designed for the minimum possible effect on the surrounding environment in the form of low exhaust emission levels. The examples are aluminium low-friction engines, catalytic converters with three-way technology +óGé¼GÇ£ located close to engine, oxygen sensor (Lambdasond) both upstream and downstream of catalytic converter, system for recovery of evaporated fuel vapour (EVAP).

As are all Volvo cars, S40 and V50 are designed for a high recycling rate. Eighty-five percent by weight of the materials in the cars can be recycled; plastic components are marked to facilitate recycling; recycled felt and wood-fibre materials are used in certain interior trim components.

Lower fuel consumption and lower exhaust emissions
The new petrol engines are a further development of Volvo's low-friction engines. The manifold and turbo unit (on S40 T5 and on V50 T5) have been cast together in high-alloy cast steel that is particularly heat resistant (1050+é-¦ C). The manifold and turbo unit are therefore more tolerant to heat. As a result, the engine is run on a leaner fuel mixture, promoting lower fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, especially when driving at high speeds.

The new plastic inlet manifold also provides positive environmental effects. The plastic material's minimal heat conducting ability leads to cooler inlet air and thus more efficient combustion.

The lambda probes are of improved design, heating up faster and activating more quickly in cold starts. This promotes lower emissions.

The radiators for S40's and V50's five-cylinder engines feature Volvo's PremAir+é-« system, developed in cooperation with Engelhard Corporation. PremAir+é-« is a system that uses a catalytic coating on the radiator. It converts up to 75 percent of the ozone passing through the radiator into harmless oxygen.

Will meet the next generation of emission regulations
The five-cylinder engines have been upgraded to meet the next generation of US and California emission regulations for this decade.

Those regulations are the toughest emission standards in the world and have led to new steps within emission development to handle the stringent HC, NOx and durability requirements. Volvo offers this enhanced technology for tailpipe emissions worldwide on the new five-cylinder engines.

Cleaner inside than out
Like other Volvo cars, S40 and V50 have been developed to offer its passengers a clean and healthy cabin. A pollen filter is standard. In addition, Volvo's Interior Air Quality System (IAQS) is now available as an option in both luxury compact models. IAQS includes an activated carbon filter. It is an advanced air quality system, which automatically purifies the incoming air of impurities and odours. IAQS makes the interior air cleaner than the air outside the car.

All materials used in the interior have been selected and tested to prevent allergies and other ailments. Examples are low PVC content in interior trim materials, chromium-free leather, nickel-free surface treatment, +âGÇôKO-TEX-certified fabrics.

The +âGÇôKO-TEX Label is an international registered mark for testing of textiles and leather. The certification ensures that textiles and leather are hypoallergenic and free from hazardous substances.

Environmental Product Declaration available from start
Like all Volvo models, S40 and V50 come with an Environmental Product Declaration. Volvo is the first car manufacturer in the world to introduce an Environmental Product Declaration. Volvo Car's EPD is based on a holistic approach with focus on health, resource utilisation and ecological consequences. It gives the car buyer an overview of the car's environmental impact throughout its lifetime and thus makes it easier to compare the eco-performance of Volvo's various models and engine alternatives.

For further information please contact:
Todd Hallenbeck
Public Affairs Manager
Volvo Car Australia
Phone: 02-9020 1613
Mobile: 0412 259 635
Fax: 02-9020 1597
Email: thallen2@volvocars.com