XC60 Concept breaks the Volvo mold, again!

The remarkable thing about the XC60 Concept is that looks both dramatically different from the XC90, and all the present models, but still looks like a Volvo.


[IMG]http://www.oneshift.com/showroom/uploadimages/resized-20061215151920817.jpg[/IMG]

According to Steve Mattin, Volvo Cars Design Director, here’s how they did it, “Down below, unmistakable and capable XC muscles pump up the car, giving it a purposeful stance with a high ground clearance on large wheels. Above the waistline, the dashing lines trace the profile and sporty charisma of an elegant, sexy coupe”. Sounds simple, and it really works.

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The rear treatment also features some interesting detailing. Firstly, the tailgate opens in quite a radical manner with the lower half sliding in front of the rear window, before the entire tailgate opens up. This allows the loadspace to be accessed without opening up the entire tailgate. The other clever detail is that the opaque glass sections around the rear number are actually transparent from the inside, giving the driver a better view when parking.

The XC60’s dashboard also breaks new ground, featuring an iPod-like finish for the centre console. The touch-sensitive panel glows when the car is switched on, creating a dazzling light show in the process.

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An idea that has been adapted from the earlier concept vehicles YCC concept car is the idea of a thin “pony-tail” slot that runs down the centre of each seat, including those in the rear. This slot is transparent, and certainly improves rearward visibility.

Let’s hope the XC60 Concept makes it to production without too many compromises – the XC60 would certainly make an exciting SUV, especially for a Volvo.

Credits: Justin_Lee