A big thank you goes out to this customer who left Todd and Sam such an amazing review!

"Look for Todd and Sam to make your next Volvo purchase hassle free." - Customer

See more of this terrific review by clicking here.

Volvo is joining together with Spotify to increase entertainment applications in their vehicles!

Spotify takes on radio with Volvo vehicle integration

Cars continue to be a focal point for technology companies, and now music service Spotify is prepping integration with Volvo's line of automobiles. Wired reports that the vice president of Volvo's Electrical and Electronic Systems engineering, Thomas M. Müller, revealed the plans. The move into automobiles would not only put Spotify in competition with services like Pandora that are already seeping into that market, but up against satellite and terrestrial radio as well.

There's no timeline provided for the introduction of the Spotify integration, but according to Wired the service will likely be used in conjunction with Ericsson's Connected Vehicle Cloud service. Essentially an application development environment aimed at automobiles, Connected Vehicle Cloud will let manufacturers create various types of entertainment applications and get them into cars. The first release, scheduled for 2014, will use a driver's phone as a modem in order to connect to the internet. A version with a built-in modem will come to market in 2016.

 

Courtesy of The Verge

What better way to get ready for the approaching new year than with a new Volvo?

This 2013 C30 Hatchback is a perfect choice for winter months, coming with a climate package that includes heated seats! Click here to see more pictures or request more information on this awesome vehicle.

A block of ice is masterfully sculpted into the S60 right before our eyes!

Volvo teams up with Ericsson to put smart-car technology in future vehicles!

Volvo cloud-connected cars promised with Ericsson deal

Volvo and Ericsson want to get your next car talking to the cloud, with a deal that will see future Volvos navigating through the Connected Vehicle Cloud as they do the mean streets. The system – which will stretch to all of the countries Volvo sells in – will support app downloads to the dashboard and two-way interaction with vendors and other services, in addition to safety features such as Volvo has explored in self-driving vehicles and  road-trains.

According to Volvo, the dashboard will soon offer the same sort of digital services as drivers are familiar with from home or work. Information, navigation, and entertainment will all be offered from a central screen, and Volvo will be looking to third-party providers such as internet radio, road authorities, governments, toll-road operators, and others, to tie in with the system.

The connection between Ericsson’s Connected Vehicle Cloud system and the individual cars will be encrypted, so as to preserve security – a virus in your dashboard is probably something best avoided – and there’s an ambitious roadmap for developing the technology. Volvo has a history of driver behavior and traffic safety tracking, and elements of each will be integrated with future versions.

 

Courtesy of Slash Gear

The Volvo Holiday Sales event is sure to get everyone into the spirit of the season!

Volvo looks to reduce fuel consumption and increase safety with their futuristic convoys!

 

VOLVO TRUCKS TAKES THE LEAD WITH TOMORROW’S WIRELESS ROAD TRAINS

Using wireless technology to link a road train, in which a lead truck controls a convoy of vehicles driving behind it, is now technically feasible. The technology was demonstrated at the conclusion of the Safe Road Trains for the Environment (SARTRE) project, which Volvo Trucks participated in.

Although it may take some time for wireless road trains to be part of everyday reality, the technology brought about through the project could be put to use for other purposes in order make our traffic environment considerably safer in the near future.

The EU-financed SARTRE project recently presented the results of three years of research and trials. Representatives from the EU Commission and experts in transport technology from Europe, the US and Japan got to see a fully functioning wireless road train in operation at Volvo’s proving ground in Sweden. In the lead was a Volvo FH truck, closely followed by another Volvo truck and three cars.

Self-driving cars in road trains The participants were able to see that the project’s aims had been achieved: development of a technology for wireless road trains that can improve traffic safety, reduce the environmental impact of road traffic and improve traffic flow. The building of test vehicles, car-to-car communication and sensors for the control of nearby vehicles has been underway for three years.

Now these technical achievements make it possible for multiple vehicles in a road train to integrate smoothly with other traffic on public motorways. The entire road train is interconnected through wireless technology, which ensures that the trailing cars follow exactly in the track of the lead vehicle – as though the train consisted of a single vehicle. The result is that the driver in a trailing car can relax, perhaps read a book or watch TV, while the car drives itself.

“The gaps between the vehicles are much smaller than in normal traffic, but it is as safe, or even safer to be part of the road train, since it is lightning-quick computers and not human beings who respond to even the slightest change in any of the cars in the train,” explains Andreas Ekfjorden, project manager for Volvo Trucks’ portion of the SARTRE project.

One of Volvo Trucks’ most important responsibility areas in the project was to determine exactly what information needs to be transmitted back down the road train so that the other cars can follow the lead truck.

“All the vehicles in the road train have a roof-mounted antenna so they can receive information from the lead vehicle’s computer system. For instance, if the lead truck starts braking, all the other vehicles in the train brake at exactly the same time,” relates Andreas Ekfjorden.

The lead truck is also equipped with an alcolock and the full range of active and passive safety systems that Volvo has in production today.

Safer and more economical The purpose of SARTRE – to increase safety and decrease fuel consumption – is the reason that Volvo Trucks chose to participate in the project. It is the cars’ fuel consumption that drops the most as a result of the reduced air drag in the compact convoy of vehicles, but the lead truck’s fuel consumption is also cut. This will make it profitable for haulage firms to provide lead trucks. Vehicles that join the convoy could pay a fee, thus benefiting the haulage firm.

What is more, the results of the SARTRE project show clearly that a truck with a trained driver and comprehensive equipment package contributes to heightened traffic safety that actually benefits other road users.

“It’s fantastic that a truck driver can drive from A to B with at least one car trailing behind, while at the same time cutting both fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. And, not least, that he can replace several car drivers and thus boost safety,” says Lennart Pilskog, director public affairs at Volvo Trucks.

Future challenges remain However, although the SARTRE project has developed well-functioning road train prototypes there are still challenges that have to be overcome before the system can become an everyday reality. For instance, it is necessary to continue working to boost reliability, which must be on a par with that of an aircraft’s autopilot before road trains can emerge as a truly viable transport solution on public roads.

Another challenge that remains is the transition from driving in a convoy to manual driving and vice-versa. It has to be absolutely clear who is responsible for driving a trailing vehicle and exactly when that responsibility is transferred. This is not merely a technical issue, a lot depends on driver acceptance and the necessary feeling of safety and security.

Legislation is another vital issue that requires further attention. According to the Vienna Convention it is illegal not to have control over one’s own vehicle. This means that automated driving is not allowed. Adapting both the Vienna Convention and the national legislation of the various EU member states is estimated to take about ten years.

“Despite legislative challenges, there are so many benefits to be derived from road trains – in terms of traffic flow, safety, the environment and not least haulage firm profitability – that I believe this will become a reality in one form or another,” states Lennart Pilskog.

Although it may take time for wireless road trains to become a reality, applying the technology in other areas could mean the research results are put to use in the near future. The new communication technology, that is to say wireless car-to-car and car-to-infrastructure, may be used in both cars and trucks for a wide variety of purposes such as to provide warnings about accidents, obstacles or ice on the road.

“It’s a lot like being able to look around the corner, it’ll be a major help in improving safety on the road,” concludes Lennart Pilskog.

 

Courtesy of 3D Car Shows

Volvo manages to go green, and keep up their rigorous safety standards!

Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid - highest safety score ever for an electrified car in Euro NCAP

Volvo Car Group has a philosophy that an electrified car should be as safe as any other new Volvo car. This is now highlighted by the latest Euro NCAP results. The new Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid has achieved the highest- ever score for a plug-in hybrid. The five stars in the recent test, which included a frontal offset collision at 64 km/h (40 mph), demonstrates that the V60 Plug-in Hybrid has the same high safety level as the standard V60.

"We apply the same high standards to all our products. The Euro NCAP score demonstrates that the ingenious V60 Plug-in Hybrid features the same outstanding safety level as the standard car," says Jan Ivarsson, Senior Manager Safety Strategy & Requirements at Volvo Car Group.

The European rating institute Euro NCAP presents an overall rating for each car model tested. Separate tests are carried out in four sub-categories, which are used to produce an overall grade.

Unique safety approach

The integration of the battery pack and the added weight the batteries create required a unique safety approach during the development of the V60 Plug-in Hybrid. The structure has been modified and reinforced to enable a controlled deformation to help provide a high safety level. The battery pack in the V60 Plug-in Hybrid is well encapsulated and located under the load floor.

"The Plug-in Hybrid has been exposed to an extensive test programme during the development phase, as all our new car models," says Jan Ivarsson. "This includes full-scale crash tests with different load cases, such as frontal collision, rear and side collisions to verify that also the battery technology fulfils our stringent safety requirements. The V60 Plug-in Hybrid also offers all unique Volvo active safety functions, such as City Safety, Collision Warning with full Auto Brake and Pedestrian Detection."

Sold out in advance

Production of the new V60 Plug-in Hybrid is ramping up and the first 1,000 'Pure Limited' cars were sold out even before they reached the showrooms. After this initial production of cars for model year 2013, production of the Plug-in Hybrid will increase to 4,000-6,000 cars for model year 2014 - and next year's build slots are already filling up.

The Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid is the synthesis of close cooperation between Volvo Car Group and Swedish electricity supplier Vattenfall. The two companies have financed the development project jointly.

Three cars in one

The driver of the V60 Plug-in Hybrid need make no compromise in their motoring by using the car's three driving modes: Pure, Hybrid and Power. Fuel consumption is just 1.8 l/100 km (48 g/km CO2) in Hybrid mode (NEDC driving cycle).

In addition, the driver can choose to cover up to 50 kilometres on electric power with zero tailpipe emissions - or release the combined capacity of the diesel engine and electric motor to create a performance drivers car delivering 215+70 horsepower, 440+200 Nm of torque and acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds.

 

Courtesy of Autoblog Green

Everyone could use a great deal now and then, so we created the Volvo Holiday Sales Event!

We are offering a special lease deal on the S60 with $0 due at signing, plus payments of only $359/month for 24 months! To top it all off, Volvo will make your first payment. Click here to see our inventory for this Sign & Drive Event.

Volvo has big plans for 2014, starting with the debut of the next-generation XC90!

Next Volvo XC90 Set For Late 2014 Debut

Volvo has confirmed that its next-generation XC90 will be launched at the end of 2014, the first of several new models based around a modular platform known as SPA or Scalable Product Architecture.

The automaker also confirmed that it is replacing its current family of engines with a new family of four-cylinder engines. The four-cylinder engines are expected to feature direct fuel injection and turbocharging.

Volvo said it is spending half of an $11-billion investment on its next-generation vehicle architecture and engines.

"SPA makes us technologically independent, without any link whatsoever to our previous owner," said Peter Mertens, Volvo senior vice president of research and development, in a statement. "The new architecture covers about two-thirds of our total sales volume.

With about 40 percent of all components shared by all car models irrespective of size, we will benefit from economics of scale, boosting our competitiveness."

 

Courtesy of Edmunds

During Sign & Drive, we are offering a great deal on all of our 2013 C30 Hatchback's!

Our entire inventory of 2013 C30's is available for $0 cash due and only $349 per month for 36 months! Click here to browse our selection and see the amazing standard features that come with these vehicles.

We hope that Volvo will incorporate this amazing display into all of their new vehicles!

Our inventory of pre-owned vehicles is sure to have something for you, like this 2006 3-Series!

This BMW is bursting with luxurious features, like leather seats and walnut wood trim. Click here to find out more, or contact us about this vehicle.

The new S60 demonstrates Volvo's ongoing commitment to producing safety conscious vehicles!

The 2013 S60 continues Volvo’s tradition of cutting edge safety technology

 Volvo has established quite the reputation for building extremely safe vehicles, earning a loyal customer base and industry accolades in the process. Unsurprisingly the 2013 Volvo S60 is no different, exhibiting some of the most advanced safety tech on the market and earning the Swedish automaker yet another top five-star rating from the NHTSA, and the IIHS Top Safety Pick with a “good” rating in all categories across the board.

In addition to standard safety features like anti-lock disc brakes, front-seat side airbags, side-curtain airbags, and a Dynamic Stability and Traction Control system (DSTC) – which essentially regulates power to the drive wheels and can cut engine power or break individual wheels to help reduce skidding and maintain optimal control of the vehicle while cornering – a major highlight of the S60’s safety tech is its City Safety feature.

Acting more as a driver support system, City Safety helps drivers avoid low speed collisions. While driving at speeds of less than 30 mph, but more than 2 mph, City Safety, which is a standard feature on the 2013 S60, will apply brakes to the vehicle automatically in an attempt to avoid or mitigate an impending collision. Ultimately, no matter the tech, the onus of driver safety is planted squarely on the shoulders of the driver, but it’s certainly nice having City Safety to help in situations where distractions can get the better of you. No doubt it’s one of the cooler safety tech features on the market, and one that separates Volvo from the vast majority of automakers.

Another impressive, but optional, safety tech feature is Volvo’s Pedestrian detection system. Pedestrian detection operates similarly to City Safety, working automatically to apply the vehicle’s brakes should a pedestrian cross into its path. Unlike City Safety though, an audio visual cue is projected  from the dash onto the the windshield’s  Heads Up Display (HUD)  that flashes red. If no action is taken by the driver, and the vehicle is travelling at speeds less than 22 mph, full braking force is applied. The system works in conjunction with both radar sensors and a digital camera located behind the rearview mirror to monitor what exactly is in front of the vehicle. It’s able to detect standing and moving pedestrians that are at least 31 inches in height, but is limited to a 60 degree field of vision and does not work at night. Bummer.

Other safety tech options include an active lane departure system that beeps when the car switches lanes without an indicated turn-signal; a rearview camera system that shows trajectory and distance; parking sensors to help maneuver tight spaces; and adaptive cruise control. The latter allows the driver to select a desired distance and cruising speed that will automatically adjust and follow approaching vehicles at a safe distance. Perhaps even more useful than its dynamic follow features is the fact that the active cruise control can bring the S60 to a complete stop altogether should traffic halt.

 

Courtesy of Digital Trends

Get behind the wheel of your dream car with this 2012 Volvo C30!

This brand new R-Design is full of extras, including a platinum package and climate package. To see a gallery of photos, or contact us about this vehicle, click here.

The Polestar Concept is going to make an appearance at the L.A. Auto Show!

Volvo S60 Polestar Concept 508Hp Coming to the Los Angeles Auto Show

The one-off Volvo S60 Polestar Concept will continue its world tour with a global motor show premiere at next week's 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.

This will be the first time that the street-legal sports sedan study will be displayed to the public since Volvo's performance partner Polestar presented the concept in June this year.

"This is Polestar's interpretation of the Volvo S60," said Christian Dahl, founder and CEO of Polestar. "It's a car developed with our own preferences in mind -- although we know they are also shared by active drivers."

"We approached this project by looking at the production Volvo S60 as a platform for a potential race car - and the culmination of that data went into the design of the S60 Polestar Concept," added Jan Andersson, chief engineer at Polestar.

The S60 Polestar Concept comes with a specially tuned version of Volvo's 3.0-liter turbocharged straight-six producing 508 horsepower and 424 lb.-ft. of torque, with a six-speed manual and a modified Haldex all-wheel-drive system transferring power to the road.

A specially made Öhlins suspension, a beefier brake systen and 19-inch rims in 265/30 R19 tires can also be found on the S60 Polestar, which as we've mentioned in the past, has already been sold to an American collector.

 

Courtesy of Car Scoop

Did you know that roadside assistance is one of the many perks that comes with your new Volvo?

A Volvo On Call membership begins when you purchase your new vehicle, and is complimentary for the first four years! Click here to see all of the ways that you can use this roadside assistance program, from lockout assistance to car rental discounts.

Go on a journey with the new XC90 to see how it was designed around you

This pre-owned 2010 Volvo C30 is the perfect blend of luxury, style, and safety!

With awesome features like leather seats, keyless entry, and Home Safe security lighting, this is a Volvo that everyone will fall in love with. For more details, or to contact us about this vehicle, click here.

Volvo believes that your car can be luxurious and environmentally friendly!

The All-New Volvo V40 Range - Low-Emission Luxury Without Compromise

The all-new Volvo V40 range has given its premium hatchback competition its toughest test yet, thanks to a unique blend of low-emission luxury with no restrictions on equipment or specification level.

Whether it's the comfort of the V40, the sportiness of a V40 R-Design or the rugged personality of a V40 Cross Country - all three variants are available with sub-100g/km CO2 emissions in a full range of trim levels, creating the widest possible choice for both retail customers and company car drivers.

The V40 is also the safest car in its class too, having achieved the highest score ever recorded by EuroNCAP in recent crash tests, thanks in part to pioneering technologies such as the world's first pedestrian airbag and Volvo's autonomous braking system City Safety, which also now qualifies for reduced insurance premiums.

There's no compromise either for customers who want to combine comfort with sports-inspired styling as the V40 R-Design is fitted as standard with the dynamic chassis and available with the optional sports chassis.

Nick Connor, Managing Director of Volvo Car UK, said: "For years now, Volvo has offered the solution for drivers who want a premium vehicle experience with low emissions and low running costs, but who don't want to sacrifice equipment, styling or safety features.

"Put simply, the V40 delivers unprecedented choice in the premium hatchback sector without compromise for the customer. Our customers can enjoy low fuel and tax benefits thanks to sub-100g/km CO2 emmisions, yet still have the luxury of SE Lux spec if they want to - plus they get to choose from the V40, V40 R-Design or V40 Cross Country bodystyles."

The all-new V40 was launched in the UK in July and is available with a choice of six engines, including a new 254hp, five-cylinder 2.5-litre T5 Geartronic performance model, which can cover the 0-60 sprint in 5.7 seconds and will continue on to a top speed of 155mph.

Meanwhile, diesel engines include two 2.0-litre units - D3 with 150hp or D4 with 177hp - both of which are available with a choice of manual or automatic gearbox and combine impressive performance with frugal fuel economy (up to 65.7mpg for manual versions on the combined cycle).

 

 

Courtesy of The Sacramento Bee

Simplify your car buying process by filling out our finance application before you get here!

Speed up the time that you spend at our dealership by applying for financing online before you come in. Click here to see how easy it is to start the process.

Volvo Polestar Racing takes home the title in all three events - team, driver and manufacturer!

We just love giving our loyal customers a great deal!

The "Offers" tab on our Facebook page is always a great place to look for exlusive deals. Click here and we will take you there.

Volvo is once again on the forefront of technology, this time improving on how you charge electric cars!

Volvo's new charging system up to 6 times faster

Volvo is testing a new system with C30 Electric cars that is reportedly six times faster than today's on-board devices.

This 22 kW fast-charger provides a full charge in only 90 minutes. Plugging into an ordinary household outlet gives a charging time of 8-10 hours, depending on the available current.

"We know that short recharging times and extensive operating range are a necessity for potential electric car consumers. The fast-charging unit helps cure what is known as range anxiety since the car can be more easily recharged during the day,'' says Lennart Stegland, Vice President, Electric Propulsion Systems, Volvo Car Corporation. ''And even if you don't have enough time for a 1.5-hour charge, plugging in for just 30 minutes will give you enough power for another 80 kilometres of driving."

 

Courtesy of Auto 123

We have a huge selection of pre-owned vehicles, including this 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class!

This C350 Sport has everything from rain-sensing wipers to satellite radio. Click here to see if this vehicle is right for you.

Volvo once again demonstrates their ability to lead the way in automotive innovation!

Happy Halloween everyone! We want to know, who is your favorite scary villain?

The new Heritage Club from Volvo will recognize long-term owners of the brand

Volvo launches Heritage Club for owners of older and high-mileage cars

Volvo Cars of North America (VCNA) will launch the new Volvo Heritage Club on Nov. 1 as a way to recognize and celebrate long-term or high-mileage owners.

Membership in the Volvo Heritage Club will be granted to anyone who meets one of these eligibility requirements:

An owner who has had one or more Volvos for at least 10 consecutive years
An owner whose Volvo has more than 100,000 original miles
Any owner who was a member of the former Volvo High Mileage Club

"We decided to launch the Volvo Heritage Club with one distinct difference from our previous High Mileage Club," said VCNA President and CEO John Maloney. "This club acknowledges our passionate owners who may have had many different Volvos over time but never had a particular car with high mileage. When you combine both long-standing loyalty and high-mileage achievements, well, that's a club that truly represents the heritage of a car brand."

Volvo was one of the first auto manufacturers to reward drivers for their high-mileage accomplishments. In fact, origins of the first Volvo High Mileage Club date back to the 1960s when the first car medallions, then only produced for 100,000-mile achievements, began to appear.

Upon acceptance into the new Volvo Heritage Club, club members will receive a commemorative Volvo Heritage Club medallion to display on their vehicle. They'll be kept up-to-date with the latest Volvo news, obtain previews of new product offerings, gain access to exclusive promotions and offers, receive special invitations to Volvo events and more.

The commemorative Volvo Heritage Club medallions will be issued in the following achievement levels:

Consecutive years of ownership: 10, 15, 20 and 25 years
Mileage milestones: 100,000, 200,000, 300,000, 400,000, 500,000, 750,000 and 1,000,000 miles.

 

Courtesy of Auto Blog

Let us take the hassle out of making your service appointment with our online scheduler

To keep your Volvo performing at its highest level, proper maintenance is essential. Click here to see how easy it is to schedule your service appointment online.

Volvo's innovative technology is on track to make our daily commutes easier and faster!

Volvo to introduce new traffic jam assistance system

Crashes in slow-moving traffic may not be at the top of anyone’s list of pressing highway issues, but the reality is they cause a staggering amount of trouble for everyone on the road. Volvo recently announced a plan to minimize the exhausting chore of keeping alert in extended stop-and-go driving, though, and the company aims to equip all their vehicles with the technology by 2014.

Their “traffic jam assistance function” is an evolution of their current Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Aid technology introduced in the all-new Volvo V40 earlier this year. A push of a button activates the system and the car automatically maintains a set distance to the vehicle in front of it. At any time, the driver can take back control of the car.

The system ought to be given a round of applause. Right now, on your daily road commute to and from work in stop-and-go traffic, all any driver has to do is give a good bump to the car ahead and both drivers have to stop and get out of their cars to survey the damage while tens of thousands of cars behind them merge to remaining lanes, causing massive delays, billions of gallons of wasted gas and, in some cases, more crashes. In worst-case scenarios, one or more of the cars are disabled, people are injured or worse, and the police, emergency vehicles, fire trucks and ambulances have to quickly get to the scene while a whole highway system is essentially shut down.

"This technology makes driving more relaxed in the kind of monotonous queuing that is a less attractive part of daily driving in urban areas. It offers you a safe, effortless drive in slow traffic," says Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President Research and Development of Volvo Car Corporation.

Volvo, a leader in auto safety, isn’t stopping there. Their eventual aim is to popularize “autonomous” driving, whereby a car’s steering, braking and acceleration are controlled by means other than driver input.

On top of improved safety, the technology offers several advantages:

• Autonomous driving can cut fuel consumption significantly.

• It has the potential for shortening travel times by improving traffic flow.

• It paves the way for more freedom behind the wheel by creating possibilities for the driver to safely focus on something else while the car is driven autonomously.

"The average driver spends about 250 hours commuting every year. We believe that being able to use the time more efficiently will benefit both the individual and the society," stated Peter Mertens.

 

Courtesy of NY Daily News

Hurry in and test drive this 2012 Volvo S80 before it's gone!

If you are in the market for a new Volvo, you do not want to miss this S80. Click here to see all of its amazing features, like its City Safety auto braking system.

Volvo is set to premiere their V60 Racing today, so be on the lookout!

Volvo to reveal V60 Racing in 850 BTC racer tribute livery at São Paulo Auto Show

Though its reputation here in the States has been built almost solely on its reputation for safety, Volvo has so much racing heritage that it can realistically create tributes to some of the most historic racing vehicles in its 85-year history. The latest competition-ready Volvo will be on display at the São Paulo Auto Show in Brazil on October 23rd.

Based on the Volvo V60 wagon, the imaginatively named V60 Racing will show off new livery in tribute to the classic 850 models that competed in the British Touring Car Championship in the 1990s. Though it's only being teased at this point, we're expecting a predominately blue and white paint job with a few splashes of yellow.

 

Courtesy of Auto Blog

With Halloween just around the corner we wanted to brush up on some fun facts!

1. Because the movie Halloween (1978) was on such a tight budget, they had to use the cheapest mask they could find for the character Michael Meyers, which turned out to be a William Shatner Star Trek mask. Shatner initially didn’t know the mask was in his likeness, but when he found out years later, he said he was honored.
2. The first Jack O’Lanterns were actually made from turnips.
3. Halloween is the second highest grossing commercial holiday after Christmas.
4. The word “witch” comes from the Old English wicce, meaning “wise woman.” In fact, wiccan were highly respected people at one time. According to popular belief, witches held one of their two main meetings, or sabbats, on Halloween night.
5. 
     Samhainophobia is the fear of Halloween.
6. Fifty percent of kids prefer to receive chocolate candy for Halloween, compared with 24% who prefer non-chocolate candy and 10% who preferred gum.
7. The owl is a popular Halloween image. In Medieval Europe, owls were thought to be witches, and to hear an owl's call meant someone was about to die.
8. According to Irish legend, Jack O’Lanterns are named after a stingy man named Jack who, because he tricked the devil several times, was forbidden entrance into both heaven and hell. He was condemned to wander the Earth, waving his lantern to lead people away from their paths.
9. The largest pumpkin ever measured was grown by Norm Craven, who broke the world record in 1993 with a 836 lb. pumpkin.
10. Stephen Clarke holds the record for the world’s fastest pumpkin carving time: 24.03 seconds, smashing his previous record of 54.72 seconds. The rules of the competition state that the pumpkin must weigh less than 24 pounds and be carved in a traditional way, which requires at least eyes, nose, ears, and a mouth.

Courtesy of Random Facts

A huge thanks goes out to Jim who left us a 5-star review on Yelp!

"Sam Hung and Chris Kukahilko did a great job.  Sam was up front about the numbers, and gave me a price that my local Bellingham dealer wouldn't touch [USAA pricing]." - Jim P.

Click here to read more of this fantastic review.

One glimpse of the interior design of the Volvo V40 will leave you wanting to see more!

You will be impressed with the low mileage and excellent condition of this 2007 BMW 3-Series

This pre-owned BMW has a ton of extras like power heated mirrors and an on-board computer. To see more of what this immaculate 3-Series has to offer, click here. 

Volvo is only making 250 of their newest Limited Edition vehicles, so you better move fast!

Volvo Introduces 2013 C30 Polestar Limited Edition

While the Volvo C30 has often been called the sportiest-looking Volvo, a new, limited-production version may also be called an "enthusiast magnet" when it makes its way to showrooms in November.

 The 2013 Volvo C30 Polestar Limited Edition will definitely be limited in volume - only 250 will be made, beginning in October.  But it won't be limited when it comes to youthful exuberance and is packaged in a remarkably attractive and affordable container.  The base MSRP is $32,445, which includes an $895 destination charge.

 The excitement begins under the hood where the C30's standard 2.5-liter turbocharged 5-cylinder engine receives a healthy performance upgrade. Polestar, Volvo's official performance partner, provides performance software that boosts output by 23 horsepower and 37 lb.-ft. of torque to 250 hp and 273 lb.-ft. The improvement in power and torque is achieved through increased turbo boost in combination with re-optimized ignition and fuel maps.

 Polestar's upgrade offers the best of both worlds: Optimized power and torque without affecting certified fuel consumption. This is possible thanks to efficient tuning of the engine which only increases the power output when it's needed. Thus EPA fuel economy estimates are identical to the standard C30 T5 R-Design with 21 mpg city/29 mpg highway for the six-speed manual transmission and 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway with the optional five-speed Geartronic automatic.

 The visual magnetism of the C30 Polestar Limited Edition is enhanced with new 17-inch Styx alloy wheels with matte black finish and Polestar badges on the rear and sides of the vehicle. To signify that this C30 is special, all 250 iterations will wear the new-for-2013 exterior hue of Rebel Blue and have a special interior numbered plate.

 Inside, the C30 Polestar Limited Edition's sporty cabin is dressed with premium leather seating surfaces in a choice of Off-Black or two-tone Off-Black and Calcite. Standard features, equivalent to the Premier Plus trim level of the C30 T5 R-Design, include a power glass sunroof, power driver's seat with memory, soft loadcover, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, power passenger's seat, LED daytime running lights, Keyless Drive and active dual Xenon headlights.

 Customers can further upgrade this model by selecting the optional Platinum trim level. This includes the superb Volvo Premium Sound System with Dolby® Pro Logic® II Surround Sound, 10 loudspeakers and an astonishing 650 watts. Also included is a navigation system with real time traffic, remote control and map care plus Sirius/XM satellite radio.

 The C30 Polestar Limited Edition features standard R-Design cues including a color-coordinated body kit, front grille R-Design logo, R-Design watch dial instrument cluster, unique aluminum inlays, R-Design sport steering wheel and sport pedals.

 For 2013, this version - like all C30s - gains standard rain sensor windshield wipers and headlight washers. A Climate Package can be added to the C30 Polestar Limited Edition with heated front seats, Electronic Climate Control (ECC) and Interior Air Quality System (IAQS).

 A Sport Chassis, standard on the C30 T5 R-Design and C30 Polestar Limited Edition, provides improved chassis dynamics and steering reflexes. Compared to the C30 T5, spring stiffness for the R-Design is increased by 30 percent while the dampers feature a mono-tube design that builds up pressure quicker for 20 percent increased low-speed damping. Steering is more precise with stiffer bushings and a 10-percent-quicker steering ratio.

 Like all C30s, the C30 Polestar Limited Edition is well-equipped with standard safety features including Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC), Volvo's Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) and Whiplash Protection Seating System (WHIPS).

 

Courtesy of Volvo News

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Volvo is on the front lines as it paves way for Car-To-Car communications

Volvo is paving the way for the implementation of Car-2-Car and Car-2-Object communication systems in its own vehicles with the signing today of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with fellow members of the CAR 2 CAR Communication Consortium being run in Europe. The consortium’s goal is to come to an agreement that will eventually lead to shared technology for communication between cars and roadside infrastructure by 2016, which hopefully will mean safer and less congested roads in the future.

The technology is also a crucial element for the development of autonomous cars, including the stepping stone ‘road train’ system that was successfully demonstrated by Volvo and other firms in the recent SARTRE project.

Development under the new CAR 2 CAR project encompasses several different research fields. Some relate to the way cars can communicate with each other (Car-2-Car), for instance, to provide information in the event of road-works or a road accident, while others focus on how the infrastructure can convey information about what is happening along the route (Car-2-Object).

Note, Volvo is not the only automaker looking to further develop Car-2-Car and Car-2-Object communication systems. In the U.S., General Motors is working with the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration in the Connected Vehicle Safety Pilot Model Deployment Program being run in Michigan, while in Europe automakers such as Ford and Daimler are working together in a similar program called Safe Intelligent Mobility - Testfield Germany.

Experts believe roads could be made safer and traffic congestion reduced by using communications technology to integrate vehicles with each other and with transport infrastructure. For example, if the tail-end of a traffic jam is hidden behind the crest of a hill or heavy fog, vehicles approaching the problem area can be alerted in good time, allowing the driver to take appropriate action, or perhaps even enabling autonomous systems to take control and prevent an impending crash.

In addition to this, another benefit is improved fuel economy. For example, via a transmitter attached to a traffic light, a driver can be informed about what speed to maintain in order to make it through several consecutive green lights. This has a range of benefits such as steadier traffic flow, greater comfort for drivers, lower fuel consumption and lower emissions.

We’ll keep you updated as the CAR 2 CAR project progresses.

Courtesy of MotorAuthority.com

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Volvo Car Corporation pulls off the curtains from V40 Cross Country

Volvo Car Corporation, the well-appreciated Swedish auto maker, has introduced a new V40 Cross Country model, which turns out to be a perfect blend of ruggedness and elegance in the premium C-segment. With the launch of this model, the company has established new heights for luxury and comforts in the auto sector.

At the launch ceremony, the Senior Vice President Product Strategy and Vehicle Line Management of Volvo Car Corporation, Lex Kerssemakers, quoted, “The new V40 Cross Country is built on the heritage that started with the V70 Cross Country back in 1997. It is designed for those who want a sense of adventure in their everyday life. And when you want a break from the city, it is capable enough to take you and your gear to your favourite adventure and back. However, you still need to climb the mountain yourself.”

The new model from Volvo boasts off advance off-roading credentials, which helps it to promote the company's strategy of go anywhere. On this, he further added, “There is a clear distinction between our XC and Cross Country models. The Volvo XC models have a distinct crossover character with unique body-styles including an elevated seating position, while the Cross Country models are expressive all-road versions of our dynamic wagons and hatchbacks. When it comes to driving dynamics, the V40 Cross Country is eager to take on the sportiest competitor versions. It features an attractive blend of sportiness and comfort.”

Under the review of standard V40, the driver's seat in V40 Cross Country is 40 mm higher. Complementing these features, the model also boasts off dark contrast bumper, sculpted as well as contrasting sills, upright DRL-lights and honeycomb mesh grille. The wheels incorporated within the model is of the same size offered in Volvo V70, including the rims of up to 19-inch. With integrated skid plate, the 2012 edition model of V40 happens to be a refreshed five-door premium crossover, which can comfortably seat five individuals. The car is equipped with several off-road details, including anodized, dark high-gloss frame around the greenhouse, the black polished rear view mirror and the design railings over the roof.

Describing the designing language of the new model, the Exterior Design Manager of V40 Cross Country, Simon Lamarre, said, “The V40 Cross Country retains its V40 stylishness by integrating the ruggedness in the design with meticulous attention to detail. It has en extrovert, expressive character that promises the open-minded adventurer a great time.”

Coming to its interiors, the model features the Raw Copper exterior colour, which adds to its unmatched stitching, which can be highlighted further by opting the Copper Dawn centre stack inlay. The Swedish auto company has also offered an option of leather upholstery in five different inserts, which includes Espresso Brown accent colour.

Expressing her views on this, the Colour and Material Design Manager of V40 Cross Country, Maria Uggla, quoted, “Our customers are individualists, so we want to offer them a lot of possibilities. All choices feature the same strong, emotional expression as the exterior of the car. The two-tone upholstery alternatives are the perfect choices for those who want a truly individual look. There is a generous range of individual possibilities. Dark elegance? Scandinavian bright? Sporty ruggedness? Just choose the interior that fits your personality best.”

Volvo V40 Cross Country is a perfect vehicle to take on adventurous trips, no matter off-road or on-roads. The rear seat backrest is provided within two pieces and can be easily folded 40/60 proportion. Boot of the model is also a key USP for the car as it can store a volume of luggage without blinking an eye. The auto maker has provided steel net as a part of standard accessory and buyers can also ask for soft safety net, being a part of optional accessory. Besides, the model can be equipped with an extra floor in the boot compartment. The move creates a number of useful possibilities like if folded upside, individual will get a grocery holder and if folded away, passengers will get best-in-class space for storing luggage. Moreover, the flat floor can easily store long stuff, which adds to the utility of boot.

The seat of front passenger has an option of forward folding, which adds to the space provided within the model. Apart from the permanent two hooks, the additional floor features extra hooks for hanging bags. Interestingly, between the lower and upper floor, there lies ample space for storage.

Accessory options provided within the model include a 'Cargo Mat Organiser', which is capable enough to store smaller safely and in a specific order. The car also has a storage compartment under the armrest, which is suitable for storing music CDs and several other small items. The compartment also has a connector for USB/iPod and AUX input, depending on the compatibility of the audio system. Besides the armrest, which can be easily adjusted for offering extra support to the driver, the front console also holds two cup holders and a 12V power socket.

The glove compartment of Volvo V40 Cross Country has ample space for storing two cans or bottles of soft drinks, which can be kept cool with the help of its electronic climate control system. Other comfort features equipped within the model includes height adjustable headrests in the front row and the central rear seat, sunglass compartment over the driver's door, pen holder in glove compartment, cup holders at rear seat. Individuals can also store handy objects under the instrumental panel, front seat cushions and front row backrests.

2012 Volvo V40 Cross Country also features seven different mood lighting options. The interiors of the model are specifically designed to provide it feel of 'theatre lighting'. In order to light up the strategic areas, the car has been equipped with exclusive LED lights.

On the technical front, the car sports unmatched driving dynamics, accompanied by all wheel drive chassis. The company has assimilated a T5 petrol turbo engine in its Volvo V40, which makes it capable enough to roll on any weather condition. Five-cylinder 2.5 litre T5 engine has potential to belt out a maximum power of 254 bhp with a peak torque of 400 Nm, comprising 40 Nm overboost used during the acceleration. Mated to an automatic transmission system, the car can swiftly glide from initial to 100 kmph within a short span of 6.1 seconds. With these outputs and performance, the engine of this model delivers a fuel economy of 12.8 kmpl (EU Combined).

Besides, T5 engine is offered in a 2.0 litre version, which churns out a highest power of 213 bhp with a maximum torque of 300 Nm. The company has also offered a T4 1.6 litre GTDi engine, which produces a maximum power of 180 bhp with 270 Nm of highest torque, including 30 Nm for overboost. The mileage of this model stands at 18.1 kmpl with CO2 emissions of 129 gpkm. In few markets, Volvo has also offered a 2.0 litre five-cylinder T4 engine, which generates a peak power of 180 bhp with 300 Nm of highest torque.

T5 series has been mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, whereas T4 engine is provided with an option of either an automatic six-speed Powershift gearbox or a six-speed manual transmission system.

On the other hand, the diesel engine models are also being offered by the Swedish auto maker. A five-cylinder 2.0 litre D4 turbo-diesel powertrain has been designed by Volvo, which delivers a maximum power of 177 bhp and a peak torque of 400 Nm. This performance oriented power mill has the potential to enable the vehicle swiftly glide from 0-100 kmph within a short span of 8.3 seconds (automatic transmission) and with manual transmission, the same distance was covered within 8.6 seconds. With this performance, the diesel engine of V40 Cross Country delivers a fuel economy of 22.7 kmpl and CO2 emissions of 117 gpkm in manual transmission, while covers 19.2 kmpl in automatic gearbox.

With this, the auto maker has also offered an option of 2.0 litre D3 engine, which generates a peak power of 150 bhp and maximum torque of 350 Nm. Both of the abovementioned diesel engines are assimilated with either a six-speed automatic gearbox or a six-speed manual transmission system.

The D2 series in new V40 Cross Country delivers an impressive mileage of 26.3 kmpl with a controlled output of CO2 emissions at 99 gpkm. Besides, the 1.6 litre diesel powertrain churns out a maximum power of 115 bhp with a highest torque of 285 Nm, including 15 Nm for overboost. The D2 series has been mated to a six-speed manual transmission system, which has easy and hassle free switching between the gears.

It must be noted that all the models, including automatic and manual gearbox, have a smart-stop function, adding to the convenience of its passengers. Moreover, in order to make altitude-changing adventures easy for the driver, the new model from Volvo's end sports Hill Descent Control feature in T5 models with all wheel drive chassis. The mentioned advancement automatically maintains the speed of the vehicle while rolling down the steep inclines. Along with this, the model features a hill hold function, which makes it easy for the driver to climb the vehicle on a narrow hill.

Keeping in mind all the features, the Swedish auto giant has targets to deliver around 17,000 units annually. Among the estimated volume, the company aims to deliver over 50 per cent of the total sales to European markets and close to 30 per cent to the Chinese auto market. The model is planned to be manufactured at the company's Ghent, Belgium manufacturing plant, which will start the production process of V40 Cross Country from November 2012.

 

Courtesy of cartrade.com

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Volvo finishes SATRE project, says 'road train' works

Volvo, which has been testing variations of its road-train transportation concept with multiple cars and lead trucks since 2009, says the test has been "successfully finalised during 2012."

The SARTRE (Safe Road Trains for the Environment) concept involves a lead truck piloted by a professional driver, a follow truck and three following light-duty Volvos. In the most recent testing, Volvo was able to achieve consistent speeds of about 55 miles per hour with the cars driving at a four-meter gap.

The idea behind SARTRE is that drivers in a group of cars can basically take their eyes (and foot pedals) off the road when driving long distances because their vehicles would become part of a "road train." The cars are kept at steady speeds and safe distances because of technology – cameras, lasers and radar – that's already used for things like lane maintenance, blind spot alarms and adaptive cruise control.

In addition to being able to multitask, drivers benefit from achieving fuel economy increases of up to 20 percent better than driving without a car train because of the aerodynamic gains of having the cars drive so close together.

Volvo said in late May that it tested the concept on Spain's public roads. The three vehicles followed a truck for about 125 miles at speeds of about 53 miles per hour, all while traveling six meters apart. Despite that success, Volvo has not announced a timeframe for when this concept will be adapted and available for the general public.

 

Courtesy of autoblog.com

The rugged and sporty 2013 XC70 is here!

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Volvo puts their tires through the ringer to make sure they're perfect for you and your Volvo.

2013 Volvo C30 Polestar Limited Edition heads to U.S.

Volvo is adding a bit of exclusivity to its C30 hatchback for the 2013 model year by offering a special Polestar Limited Edition model in the United States. And we do mean limited – only 250 of the Rebel Blue hatches will be offered, boasting upgraded performance (sort of) and a whole host of standard kit.

We say "sort of" because, well, the Polestar power kit for this special C30 isn't any different than what you can spec on the standard car. Still, it offers an additional 23 horsepower and 27 pound-feet of torque, bringing the turbocharged inline-five's output numbers up to 250 and 273, respectively, paired to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

Aside from its new blue hue (that we really like, by the way), the Polestar Limited Edition is set apart from other C30 models with the addition of unique 17-inch Styx matte black alloy wheels, as well as a color-coordinated R-Design body kit. Inside, standard equipment matches that of the C30 Premium Plus model, meaning all of the Limited Edition cars are fitted with a sunroof, power seats, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, LED daytime running lights and Xenon headlamps. Of course, if you're feeling spendy, you can option up for the Platinum model, which adds navigation and a premium sound system to the mix.

All of this limited-run goodness comes at a price, though – the front-wheel-drive Polestar Edition retails for $32,445, including $895 for destination. Ticking the Platinum option will no doubt increase that cost by a few grand, and while it'll certainly be a hoot to drive, it's far more expensive than loaded competitors like the Mazdaspeed3 and runs into all-wheel-drive Volkswagen Golf R territory.

We've asked Volvo to pass along more images aside from the one poorly cropped, low-res shot you see here, and we'll be sure to update you if more photos surface.

 

Courtesy of autoblog.com

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Volvo contemplating mini revival

Up or down? That's the question about which way Volvo is going to take its brand: solidly into premium, full-size sedan luxury or into a smaller near-premium offering to challenge what is, right now, a very hot segment. Most of the chatter has centered around the former option, with Volvo declaring it would go for the top luxury guns, a patent filing suggesting an S100 flagship, and talk of a C90 luxury coupe to fight models like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe.

In between, that there's been speculation on the other side, with reports that Volvo is looking for a partner on a small car. Officials have themselves confirmed that within ten years, they won't have an engine larger than four cylinders, and everyone figuring that Volvo will have to do something with the spot occupied by the expiring C30 other than rename it and add two doors. The V40 takes the fight to the A3 and BMW 1 Series five-door, but what about premium and popular subcompacts like the Mini Cooper, Audi A1 and A-Class?

Volvo CEO Stefan Jacoby tells Automotive News that the Swedish brand is considering a model in that space, but to do so would require not only the aformentioned partner, but a smaller engine. We're not sure what to make of the engine comment, since it apparently already has smaller engines planned for its larger line. If such a car comes, it won't be soon; Jacoby says his priorities now are "Volvo's core ranges" and getting the Scalable Platform Architecture fully integrated into the brand's next-generation cars. But with the scattershot temperament of Volvo news lately, who knows.

 

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Risk of Injury in a Volvo Drops 50 Percent Since 2000

Give credit to Volvo, the Swedish automaker has emphasized safety through all its years and continues to do so while other automakers focus on performance or fuel efficiency.

 

Through all its technological innovations and focus on safety in the last decade, the automaker has concluded that passengers and drivers in a current-model Volvo have a 50 percent lesser chance of being injured than in a vehicle back in the year 2000. It may be hard to believe, but back in 2000, safety features such as electronic stability control, lane departure warning, blind spot detection, automatic braking, and more, were inconceivable – or at lest not popular. Nowadays, it’d be difficult to find a car that doesn’t offer those features.

Most recently, the 2012 Volvo S60 earned the top rating in the new IIHS crash test, a further testament to just how safe a Volvo is. The automaker isn’t just concerned about those in the vehicle, however, being the first to actually equip its vehicles with a pedestrian airbag.

As for what’s to come in the next decade? Volvo hopes that by 2020, no occupants in a new model Volvo should suffer any serious or fatal injuries in a crash.

 

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