Volvo Charges Up Detroit with XC60 Plug-In Hybrid Concept

New Electrified Drivetrain Technology to Improve Fuel Efficiency of Lineup

TOPSHAM, MAINE (01/19/2012)(readMedia)-- Known more for its confident Swedish styling and reliable safety features, Volvo has been working hard to add fuel efficiency to its resume in recent years. Those efforts were on display last week at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, where the Volvo XC60 Plug-In Gasoline Hybrid Concept made its debut. The hybrid version of Volvo's sporty crossover showcased new technology expected to significantly improve fuel economy when it reaches U.S. Volvo dealerships within the next couple years.

Based on Volvo's most popular vehicle, the Volvo XC60 Plug-In Gasoline Hybrid Concept car draws from the features of an all-electric car, a fuel-sipping hybrid and a powerful touring car. Though the automaker has not decided which model will be first to feature the technology in production form, Volvo has touted the hybrid system's flexibility as a competitive advantage in its largest market, the United States.

"With the XC60 concept model, Volvo has packaged a variety of innovative technology into a form that Maine Volvo drivers already know and love," said Rob Goodwin, general manager of Maine Volvo dealer Goodwin Volvo. "The XC60 hybrid concept successfully takes the practical innovation that has made Volvo a leader in safety and applies it to fuel efficiency and performance."

As the first vehicle that can be plugged without an adapter into a home wall outlet during charging, the XC60 hybrid concept delivers an all-electric range of up to 35 miles in Pure mode, meaning zero tailpipe emissions on short trips around town. In Hybrid mode, Volvo claims that combined fuel economy during continuous driving is 50 mpg with an effective range of 600 miles, meaning few, if any, pit stops during long road trips.

For those looking for a power fix in the XC60 Plug-In Gasoline Hybrid Concept, a simple push of a button unleashes the top performance of the gas-electric drivetrain. The system features a 280-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine driving the front wheels and a 70-horsepower electric motor powering the rear wheels. That adds up to a maximum combined output of 350 horsepower during Power mode, enabling the compact crossover to accelerate to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds.

Performance-hungry Volvo fans that can't quite wait for a new hybrid can turn to the 2012 XC60 T6 R-Design, which relies on a turbocharged six-cylinder engine to deliver its acceleration. With 325 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque driving all four wheels, the XC60 T6 R-Design is as quick as it is safe, having recently been named an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick for 2012.

"Volvo continues to cover the safety angle while surprising customers with its ability to match its European rivals when it comes to driving fun," Goodwin noted. "Modern Volvos are powerful, comfortable, reliable and fuel efficient, and that is a successful combination for the varied driving conditions that our customers experience in Maine."

About Goodwin Volvo:

Goodwin Volvo provides Maine Volvo drivers with unmatched service by ensuring that the customer relationship goes well beyond the initial sale. With a wide inventory of new and used Volvo vehicles and parts, the sales and service staff at Goodwin Volvo can answer customers' detailed questions to guarantee an educated purchasing decision. Visit their Topsham, Maine Volvo dealership at 91 Main Street, check out their online inventory at www.goodwinsvolvo.com, or call them at 888-221-3201. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoodwinsVolvo.