TMW - EUROPEAN SALES - Full brand sales in Europe for 2013

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2013 was a year of varying successes and failures, however overall 2013 was most probably the year that the Europe wide fall in sales finally flat-lined, there were some huge stories that hit the worldwide media over the last twelve months, namely the takeover of Chrysler by FIAT, VW's continued dominance in Europe, followed far far behind by the PSA group, who themselves are in continued talks about mergers, takeovers and financial dire straits.

But the main story, well on this blog, is the brilliant news that Jaguar Land Rover carry on where they left off 2012, and thats higher sales, better profits, more models, and more improvement in reliability. as well as the awards, that just flowed month after month to JLR, The stunning F-Type, new Sport and the big daddy, Range Rover, all said hello, and like a hound after a hare, the sales shot off, at a high rate of knots, the next few years will be a huge one for JLR, with massive investment, the new Engine plant at Wolverhampton UK, comes on stream this year, the new 3-Series competitor will emerge, as well as the new XF, and SUV.

The last year or two have been devoted to getting Range Rover right, this has been done, now it is the turn of Land Rover and Jaguar, with the Freelander name disappearing and being replaced with the Discovery moniker making Discovery a brand in its own right, but this is not all, a brand new plant in India, China, Mexico and Saudi Arabia are all with built, building or in the planning stages, JLR will become a huge company, one that the likes of BMW and Mercedes will do well to keep their eyes on.

SEAT and Skoda saved VAG by adding over 40,000 models to the 2012 sales, but VW, AUDI and Porsche all took hits keeping 13's sales below 12's, however the mighty VAG will not rest on its laurels, they did sell nearly three million cars in the EU last year, and nearly Ten Million worldwide, so a few thousand is really nothing, but I am sure that there will be meetings and conversations high up to fathom out the issues and processes put in place to ensure it does not happen this year.

The French brands fared little better, -8.4% for the PSA company and up 4.4% for Renault Group, however it was the Dacia brand that saved Renault, and a massive first year in the UK where it sold over 17,000 cars in its first year, not bad for an unknown brand, its seems that the UK customer did indeed do the maths (reference to the UK TV advertising "Dacia - You do the maths"), Peugeot and Citroen, for two old brands, with great products 2013 was a let down, but 2014 will be better, Peugeot will have the youngest range of products in its history, Citroen will continue with the DS brand and push it further into China, and with the 308 coming on stream worldwide, along with the 208 and 2008, this year will be a significant year for the French giants.

FIAT Group, well, where to start, what a rubbish year in Europe, every brand in their portfolio fell, even the great Ferrari didn't do exceptionally well in Europe, Alfa needs a Miracle, Lancia needs putting to sleep, FIAT needs billions of euros to turn it around, and Chrysler just has not succeeded in the EU, the real story with FIAT is the takeover of Chrylser and the continued slide of Alfa Romeo, it is surely going to take a vast amount of money and talent to get FIAT Group back on top.

Of the other US brands, both had minor falls, Ford dropped 3.2% and GM by 4.3% with Vauxhall saving GM further embarrassment, by increasing sales by over 11% in the UK, adding 20,000 extra sales, 2014 will be interesting to watch, to see if the announcement of Chevrolet pulling out of Europe will effect sales, I am sure that GM wont be advertising the fact, as any sales are worthwhile, even if they are pulling out.

The so called premium brands, BMW and Mercedes were complete opposites, with BMW+MINI dropping and Mercedes+SMART rising, of the remaining brands in Europe only Kia and Mazda managed to increase sales on the previous year, but with the majority of the drops only small numbers, just saying drop or rise is a little innocuous, overall the Europe market dropped by a rather insignificant 1.7%, but that 1.7% equates to about 200,000 sales, and that's not to be ignored.

2014 will be a year of change, more emphasis on China for a lot of brands will bolster sagging sales elsewhere, most companies have significant new car releases this year, so again sales figures will be buoyant, and with the increased sales, the fight for customers will start again, with various offers, finance packages and deals to tempt, even the most tight fisted buyer, these in turn will start the spiral that eventually ended up with the entire worldwide market crashing back in 2008, have any of the Motor Manufacturers taken note and will they act accordingly, don't be silly, it will just carry on as before, the belts will tighten, and gradually they will slip, and sometime in the future, we will all be back here doing the same thing.

In the mean time, enjoy the great new cars that are due this year, and take advantage of any and all offers that are around, and remember, at the end of the day, it is only a car, and not life and death, duh, what a lot of rubbish, we live for cars around here, and any new car is met with a smile and a great deal of interest, that's why we publish all we can. Enjoy them all and here is to the next 11 months of new releases, hopefully better sales and lots of interesting news and gossip from around the world.

Jon Mower

Volvo Cars UK offers customers new on-line experience.

• Volvo Car UK launches new web portal to communicate direct with its customers
• Unique ‘My Volvo’ portal designed specifically around individual customers and their cars
• Bespoke news, product information and offers delivered direct to customers online

Volvo Car UK is transforming the way it communicates with its customers with the launch of ‘My Volvo’, an innovative new web portal.

My Volvo, which launches this week, is a new service that enables customers to establish an online relationship direct with Volvo Car UK that is personal to them and their car.

Existing customers can simply register their details via the portal at www.volvocars.co.uk/myvolvo to access a huge library of information, product news and exclusive offers and see information about their own car.

Even more exciting, for customers new to the brand, they can keep in touch right from the start of the experience, by tracking their car’s progress from the factory to its new home here in the UK.

While they await its arrival, they can also find out more about Volvo, familiarise themselves with Volvo ownership and even investigate some of their new car’s key features and technologies online.

The My Volvo site features video guides to a variety of features found on the latest Volvo models, including tips on pairing smartphones with the car via Bluetooth; how the infotainment system works; what security features are included on the vehicle and how to use the satnav.

In addition, there is a whole host of practical information – for example how to load the vehicle for a family holiday; driving with children and pets; tips for long-distance drives; advice on ways of driving more fuel efficiently and preparing for winter driving.

Future developments will include the ability to book vehicle servicing and maintenance with a Volvo retailer, while new send-to-car capabilities could, for example, allow customers to pre-set the cabin temperature or send destination information to their car’s satnav ahead of a journey.

David Baddeley, Customer Services Director at Volvo Car UK, said: “This is a real innovation for Volvo that will strengthen both our relationship with our customers and the way in which we communicate with them.

“We know that our customers value convenience and quality of service, so we’ve designed My Volvo to reflect those values as part of a unique customer service experience. The web portal enables us to build long-term, one-to-one relationships with people and further enrich the service we offer them.”

Volvo's latest concept wins two awards at the NAIAS in Las Vegas.

The Volvo Concept XC Coupé won two prestigious design awards this week, further raising the excitement around Volvo Car Group’s (Volvo Cars) new design language. The Concept XC Coupe was awarded the title “Best Concept Car” at the 2014 EyesON Design Awards at the 2014 Detroit Motor Show, while Volvo’s latest concept vehicle also won the award for “Best use of Color, Graphics and Materials”.

The 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit hosts the world premiere of Volvo Cars’ new Concept XC Coupé – the second of three concept cars that showcase the company’s future design direction. Like the highly acclaimed and award-winning Volvo Concept Coupé, the Concept XC Coupé demonstrates the design possibilities of Volvo Cars’ new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) that will underpin most cars from Volvo Cars in the future, starting with the all-new Volvo XC90 that premieres later this year.

“I’m honored and very happy of course. This is very encouraging and it shows that Volvo’s new design direction is appreciated not only by the general public and the press, but also by the leading people in the car design business. And Volvo Cars has only just started its exciting new journey with a brand new design language,” says Thomas Ingenlath, senior vice president design at Volvo Cars.

The EyesOn Design Award ceremony is an annual event that takes place in conjunction with the Detroit Motor Show. The EyesOn Design Award jury contains of a prominent group of designers and from auto makers and academia.

Volvo'c latests XC concept the way forward for the XC90?

The second of Volvo’s three concept cars is the new Volvo Concept XC Coupé. Inspired by the design of modern sports equipment and demonstrating the safety capabilities of Volvo’s new Scalable Product Architecture, it is a sophisticated and capable car for people with an active lifestyle.

“Those who love extreme sports freely seek new thrills and challenges. To ensure that they make it back in one piece, they prefer high-performance equipment that offers the ultimate sense of freedom and protection,” says Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President Design of Volvo Car Group.

“The Volvo Concept XC Coupé is perfectly in tune with this active lifestyle. Its capability and protection is cleverly integrated into the sophisticated looks. Concept XC Coupé is ready and willing to bring you into the adventure zone and back,” he adds.

Sleeker and safer at the same time

The three concept cars are designed to demonstrate vital elements of the company’s new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA): the confident stance, the proportions and the most prominent design signatures.

“Concept XC Coupé also shows how clever engineering makes it possible for us to reinforce our world-leading safety without compromising design, size or weight. Thanks to the extensive use of high-strength boron steel and structures with new, ingenious decoupling, we can make SPA cars more compact and safer at the same time,” says Thomas Ingenlath.

The two-door, four-seater Volvo Concept XC Coupé has a strong connection with its sibling, the Volvo Concept Coupé. However, the larger 21-inch wheels, the more accentuated wheel-arches and the taller roofline all contribute to a more robust impression and a fuller, capable look.

The extended distance between the dashboard and the front axle is still a very powerful visual element. The capable stance is emphasised by details such as the new bonnet and a beltline that spans an elegant bow along the length of the car.

High-tech sport gear

The connection with modern, high-tech sports gear is highly present in the concept car. Among the sources of inspiration for the design team is the Swedish company POC, which develops high-tech protective gear for extreme sports athletes.

“Several orange details and exterior graphics in combination with bold use of matte rubber mouldings, which cover the rear end of the car, add to the highly functional expression of the design,” says Thomas Ingenlath.

To strike the right balance between aesthetics and functionality, the design team has also given traditional SUV elements, such as side mouldings and skid plates, a modern interpretation. They are more integrated into the sleek design, flush with the surrounding body areas.

T-shaped DRL lights

Just like the Volvo Concept Coupé, the face of the Volvo Concept XC Coupé is characterised by a new topography on the bonnet and the ‘floating’ grille, flanked by headlights featuring new T-shaped DRL light guides. The rear light signature is also a distinctive element in the new design direction of Volvo Cars.

“Both concept cars show how we can shape our cars from now on. We add emotional value to the Volvo brand with the calm, confident beauty that is the hallmark of Scandinavian design,” says Thomas Ingenlath.

Building on a proud XC heritage

Volvo Cars paved the way for a completely new segment by introducing the V70 Cross Country in 1997. The range has been continuously developed and extended since then. Presently, it spans from the Volvo V40 Cross Country, via the XC60 and XC70, to the XC90.

“With the Volvo Concept XC Coupé, we take this unique blend of capable ruggedness and expressive elegance up to a new, sportier attitude,” says Thomas Ingenlath.

Volvo launches Sensus connect on all new cars.

With the launch of Sensus Connect, Volvo Car Group (Volvo Cars) reveals an updated on-board infotainment and navigation solution. Now, Volvo Cars truly offers customers a fully connected experience. The cloud-based services allow drivers to find and pay for parking from their car, discover new restaurants at their destination, stream their favourite music seamlessly and much more. Sensus Connect also offers the first ever solution utilizing built-in connectivity supported by Pandora Internet Radio.

“Technology should make your life easier. That’s why we listened carefully to our customers when creating Sensus Connect. It’s not about offering a thousand apps; it’s about giving you precisely what you need, before you even knew you needed it,” says David Holecek, Connectivity Brand Manager at Volvo Cars.

The brand new in-car experience includes a novel take on all aspects of travelling. Tens of thousands of radio stations can now be enjoyed in the car and the new navigation system allows the driver to not only set destinations through their mobile device and get exciting information about their surroundings through Wikipedia, but which also lets them find and pay for parking at their destination. The Park&Pay application – a world-first provided by Volvo Cars – is based on car2infrastructure communication and points the way to new possibilities when the car starts to “communicate” with its surroundings.

Volvo Cars is one of few car manufacturers that strategically invests and partners in cloud-based solutions. The Volvo solution offers a branded look and feel and the possibility to remotely update content over air and time.

“It’s all about giving everyone an enjoyable, easy to use and intuitive experience. There is no point in filling a car with technology if it comes off as overwhelming, so our main focus is always to give our customers the best experience available and make it easy to digest. Our cloud-based apps update seamlessly. Sensus offers the optimal combination of input/output methods and allows the driver to turn the entire car into a Wi-Fi hotspot for all of their connected devices,” David Holecek says.

By choosing partners who are the very best in their individual fields such as Ericsson, Pandora, HERE, Yelp, Glympse and parking service providers, Volvo were able to focus on what they do best, providing a safe, comfortable and highly enjoyable ride.

“We are particularly proud to announce at CES the inclusion of Pandora Internet Radio in our launch of Sensus Connect. Sensus Connect offers the first ever embedded solution supported by Pandora, the internet radio service with more than 76 million active monthly listeners,” says David Holecek.

Sensus Connect will allow Volvo drivers to stream Pandora via a data connection provided by the built-in modem or their smartphone. Control of Pandora features like station creation and thumbs feedback are now available via the head unit, making access to personalised radio in the car is as easy as FM radio.

“The driver can now seamlessly switch between their favorite music on high-end speakers and having their text messages read out loud without taking their hands off the wheel. And as from now, your car will not only tell you when it’s time to visit the garage but also will suggest an appointment for you at your Volvo dealership. Our brand new app Connected Service Booking is only the first step in making the dealer workshop fully integrated into the digital eco-system, enabling even more services in the future. Say goodbye to expensive or outdated maps, our Sensus Navigation includes lifetime map upgrades. There’s really no reason it should be more difficult than that,” David Holecek adds.

The updated Sensus Connect includes a great selection of cloud-based applications designed to simplify the entire car experience.


“Two of my favourite parts of the new Sensus Connect are Glympse, an app where you can share your position with others to see on their phones, perfect when carpooling or visiting a friend’s house for the first time and the fact that the entire car works as a Wi-Fi hotspot for all your connected devices, using an integrated roof-top antenna to ensure the best possible signal reception,” David Holecek concludes.

All in all, Sensus Connect is there to deliver what the driver needs, when they need it – to make Volvo Cars customers’ lives easier and more enjoyable without compromising safety or comfort.

The updated Sensus Connect will be available in all new Volvo models starting in May 2014. Drivers who already have Sensus Connect in their cars today will be offered an update for their system.

The 2014 Volvo Sensus solutions will include the following features among others:

ENTERTAINMENT

• Pandora – internet radio
• 100,000 global radio stations through TuneIn
• Rdio – streaming music service
• Stitcher – on-demand radio shows and podcasts
• Regional audiobook solutions

NAVIGATION

• Upgraded navigation system with 3D graphics and lifetime map upgrades
• Park&Pay by Parkopedia – find available parking and pay for it from your car
• Yelp – find local services, e.g. restaurants, with reviews
• Glympse – dynamic, temporary location sharing
• HERE by Nokia - cloud connected services to provide seamless and connected navigation to drivers
• Send to Car – find your destination on your phone and send it to your car’s navigation system
• Wikipedia – enriched local points-of-interest information

INTERFACE

• Refreshed HMI with graphically themed centre and driver displays
• Voice control and text-to-speech

CONNECTIVITY

• Integrated roof-top antenna and embedded 3G modem
• Wi-Fi hotspot in the car
• Smartphone tethering (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth)
• Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling

SERVICES

• Smartphone app – connecting your phone to your car
• Connected service booking - car knows when service is due and will pre-book itself for a convenient service appointment at Volvo dealership

The Detroit Motor Show, what to expect !

A handy round up of all that you can expect to see at the 2014 Detroit Motor Show

The 2014 Detroit Motor Show is the first major motor show in the 2014 automotive calendar. Officially known as the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), it opens its doors to the world's press on January 13 2014 before inviting the public in on January 18.

The biggest car manufacturers in the world will be showcasing a whole host of new metal at Detroit, from crazy concept cars to production models that we'll be seeing on the road very soon. And, of course, Auto Express will be there bringing you all the stories live as they happen.

Bookmark this page to stay up to date with the latest from the Detroit Motor Show 2014. We’ll be updating it regularly with all that we know on the biggest stories coming out of this year's show.

Click the links below for the hottest Detroit news stories of the moment and scroll down the page for our full manufacturer-by-manufacturer round-up…

Detroit Motor Show 2014: the key cars

Mercedes C-Class - the all-new Mercedes C-Class compact exec will make its world debut at Detroit with BMW's 3 Series in its sights.

Ford Mustang - the new Ford Mustang takes a bow in production form at Detroit and this one will be sold in the UK.

BMW M3 saloon and M4 coupe - the latest instalment in BMW's M3 dynasty is here but now the coupe version's called M4.   

Audi Q1 concept - Audi is gunning for the Nissan Juke with a new baby SUV concept car.

Lexus RC-F coupe - Lexus hopes to eclipse the BMW M3 with this coupe concept car rumoured to be packing a V8.

Volvo XC Concept - the XC concept car from Volvo should tell us a lot about the design of the new XC90 SUV.

Detroit Motor Show 2014: full round-up 

Audi

Audi has just announced 11 all-new models will be added to the range, and as far as we know the baby Q1 concept will be the first of those to make an appearance, with a debut at Detroit rumoured. It’s aimed at Nissan Juke buyers who crave something a little more premium. BMW and Mercedes are also working on entry-level SUVs

Audi has confirmed a three-door Crossover concept will be on display at Detroit, which is likely to be giving us an insight into the future design direction for the brands next-gen road cars.

BMW

BMW will be one of the busiest manufacturers at the Detroit Motor Show next month with five new or facelifted models making their debuts. Taking centre stage will be the new M3 saloon and M4 coupe, both powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine developing 424bhp. The new high-performance models are lighter, more efficient and more powerful than the outgoing M3.

Sharing the limelight will be the new BMW 2 Series. It’s a replacement for the outgoing 1 Series Coupe which goes on sale in March, priced from £25,040. Facelifted versions of the BMW X1 SUV and Z4 will also be making an appearance at Detroit, both featuring subtle visually tweaks inside and out.

Chevrolet

GM has announced Chevrolet will be pulled out of European markets by 2015 but iconic models such as the Camaro and the Corvette will still be available. The new Z06 will debut at Detroit, so far we’ve only seen a teaser image and rumours suggest the muscle car could use a tweaked version of the 7.0-litre V8 tuned to produce around 600bhp.

Ford

Ford has already showcased the new Mustang at several glamorous locations around the world but Detroit will be its motor show debut. For the first time in its 50 years of production, the Mustang will be made available in right-hand drive in the UK. There’s no official word on pricing but the EcoBoost model should start from around £30,000, with the V8 model demanding a further £5,000.

Infiniti

A potential rival for the BMW M3, the Infiniti Eau Rogue concept will be unveiled at Detroit. We only have a few details about the high-performance saloon and we expect a twin-turbocharged 3.7-litre V6 to fitted under the bonnet, producing around 500bhp. The concept is named after one of the most famous corners in the F1 calendar, a sweeping uphill bend at Belgium’s Spa-Francorchamps circuit.

Kia

Kia has revealed teaser shots of the GT4 Stinger concept car that will be on display at Detroit. We now know it will be  powered by a 311bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, driving the rear wheels. The teaser images show the concept to have a long bonnet, bulging wheels arches and a short tailgate, giving it the classic sports car look. Kia says the new concept is aimed at "delivering head-turning looks".

Lexus

The first image of the new flagship Lexus RC F coupe has leaked online. It’s set to debut at Detroit where the wraps will also be taken off the car's BMW M4 rival. Under the bonnet, a 5.0-litre V8 has been rumoured, with power somewhere in the region of 455bhp.

MINI

The range-topping model in the new MINI range, the John Cooper Works, will be unveiled in concept form at Detroit. It features an aggressive looking body kit and exclusive paint job as well as being powered by a tuned version of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine from the outgoing Cooper S. It should arrive in the UK in summer, priced at around £23,000.

Mercedes

After months of leaked images and spy shots the Mercedes C-Class was finally unveiled in December. The baby exec will draw in the crowds at Detroit with an Estate variant sharing the stage. A whole host of petrol and diesel engines will be availble, with a new 1.6-litre diesel engine adopted from Nissan being the entry-level motor.

Mercedes will again be showcasing the S-Class coupe at Detroit after the concept first debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show back in September. We’ll have to wait until March at the Geneva Motor Show before we get to see the production model, however.  

Porsche

Porsche will unveil the 991-generation Targa at Detroit, with leaked images online suggesting the car will revert back the original Targa style body that was first seen in 1966.

Toyota

There has been a lot of speculation about a replacement for the Toyota Supra and the Japanese manufacturer has confirmed there will be ‘some form of performance concept at Detroit’. Rumours started circulating about a successor to the Supra back in 2007, when the Toyota FT-HS concept first appeared at the Detroit Motor Show.

Volvo

Volvo will be showcasing the Concept XC Coupe at Detroit, which gives us a glimpse into the future styling of the manufacturers SUVs. It will also influence the design of the XC90, scheduled to arrive in the UK in the middle of 2014.

MORE HERE

USA - Volvo appoints new Exec vice president for North America to boost Volvo's American presence.

Bodil Eriksson, currently Senior Vice President Corporate Communications for Volvo Car Group (Volvo Cars), has been appointed Executive Vice President for Volvo Cars North America (VCNA), in a new role as overall responsible for Marketing, Brand and Communications.

“We are committed to restoring the Volvo brand in the US,” comments Håkan Samuelsson, CEO and President of Volvo Cars. “We are a small player. Our brand is our key strength, a strength we need to leverage on. We are determined to show that we have an interesting offer to the US consumers. This requires an in-depth knowledge of Volvo, a capability to communicate to multiple stakeholders and a confidence in the interpretation of the brand, all of which Bodil Eriksson represents,” says Håkan Samuelsson.

The development on the US market is a key focus area for the executive management of Volvo Cars, which is further underpinned by the appointment of Bodil Eriksson to her new position. During this critical phase, it is paramount to establish tight connections between the VCNA team and the company’s headquarters in Gothenburg. This will enable fast and autonomous decisions which are needed to move to 100,000 units in a number of years.

“I am thrilled by the challenge and opportunity to bring back a vibrant Volvo Cars in the US,” says Bodil Eriksson. “Volvo is a very appealing brand to conscious consumers, irrespective of topic: green tech solutions, connectivity, safety or design. Volvo’s long standing passion for human centricity always show which gives us unique prerequisites to engage with consumers,” she concludes.

Bodil Eriksson will report to Tony Nicolosi, President of Volvo Cars North America and take on her new position as per January 15, 2014.

“This is an appointment which not only brings great competence and energy to our team, but also demonstrates the vital role that the US market plays within Volvo Cars and underlines that the company now clearly wants to prioritize US”, says Tony Nicolosi.

The successor of Bodil Eriksson as Senior Vice President Corporate Communications for Volvo Cars will be subject to a later announcement.

Bodil Eriksson joined Volvo Cars for the first time under the Swedish ownership in the latter part of the 90s, in the role as SVP Corporate Communications for Volvo Car Group. She was part of the first years of Ford Motor Company ownership. She again joined Volvo Cars in May 2012. She has a thorough background in brand strategy, marketing and communications from consumer goods and industrial companies from executive managements and Board

The latest Volvo Concept, the XC Coupe, debuts at the NAIAS in Detroit

In September, the Volvo Concept Coupé was launched to critical acclaim and many awards, and represented the world’s first insight into Volvo Car Group's (Volvo Cars) new design direction under Senior Vice President of Design, Thomas Ingenlath. It also showed one interpretation of how the proportions and versatility of Volvo Cars' new Scalable Product Architecture, that will underpin all medium and large cars in the company’s future, could look.

The Concept Coupé was the first of three design studies. The next chapter in Volvo Cars' new design story showcases how the company’s famous safety technology as well as a contemporary Scandinavian active lifestyle could be integrated into the new architecture. The Volvo Concept XC Coupé will make its world debut at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) on January 13, but full details including press release, videos and images will be published on January 8.

The Concept XC Coupé builds on Volvo’s proud history of Cross Country and XC products, with Volvo Cars having created the niche in 1997. And in anticipation of the full reveal of the car in early 2014, Volvo Cars now shares the first three images of the car.

USA - Sales for November by brand and with best seller.

Another month has come and gone, and automakers have announced November sales figures. Just like last month, all but six automakers managed to have positive numbers. The majority of automakers show double digit percentage increases over the same month last year, showing the industry as a whole is continuing to grow.

This month’s sales leader was once again Jaguar, with an increase of 103 percent. Not as high as last month, but the automaker continues to outpace the rest of the industry. High sales of the new XF have boosted Jaguar to the top, and with new models coming out in the months ahead, we can expect the numbers to continue to climb.

Volkswagen continues to struggle with sales, and although the numbers weren’t as low as last month, it seems like the automaker needs to do something to get back in the positive. Volvo has also struggled this month, showing a decrease of over 30 percent when compared to November 2012. Hopefully with the holidays coming, sales will increase for the automakers.

Check out the numbers below to see what automakers managed to stay on top.

REPORT HERE

New Polestar versions of Volvo's S60 and V60

• 0-62mph in just 4.9 seconds
• Complete Polestar bespoke vehicle set-up
• Limited Edition

The new Volvo S60 and V60 Polestar are here, set for sale on four continents around the world in 2014. The countries confirmed to take the S60 and V60 Polestar include Canada, the Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the USA, with further markets, final production numbers and pricing to be revealed next year.

Whilst the S60 and V60 Polestar will be available globally, Volvo Car UK will continue to deliver on the call for fast estates by limiting availability to the new V60 Polestar only.

”We are proud to present the S60 and V60 Polestar. A car developed for those who share our passion at Polestar: That driving really matters and that a true driver’s car should enable you to enjoy driving all year, on all roads and in all weather conditions. This is a driver’s car for real life,” said Christian Dahl, CEO of Polestar.

“With the introduction of the V60 model, we are proud to continue the heritage of fast Volvo estates like the racing 850 BTCC, a tradition deeply rooted among Volvo enthusiasts,” continued Christian Dahl, CEO of Polestar.

”Our motorsport co-operation with Polestar has been going on for almost two decades and it is rewarding to see how Polestar can use their experiences from motorsport to engineer such an exciting and competent car,” said Derek Crabb, Motorsport Director at Volvo Car Group (Volvo Cars).

“It is very satisfying to see how Polestar have been able to combine this level of driving performance in their interpretation of the S60 and V60 with maintained original service program, class leading safety features and certified fuel and emission ratings. Customers buying this car will get the best from both Polestar and Volvo,” said Alain Visser, Senior Vice President Marketing, Sales & Customer Service at Volvo Cars.

All-year performance

The car is based on the latest generation Volvo S/V60 and marks the start of an extended Polestar production model range. Development of the car has been ongoing over the past years, picking up from the C30 and S60 Concept cars and the Australian S60 Polestar. Thousands of development kilometres have been driven on twisty mountain roads, on the Autobahn and test tracks from the south of Europe to the frozen north of Sweden.

”We have continued our work to create a true driver’s car which is not limited only to a few specific driving conditions, but enjoyable on everything from your favourite winding roads to taking the family for a long journey, no matter summer or winter. And in my view, we have gotten very close to our goals, something that of course is best experienced first-hand behind the wheel,” said Robert Dahlgren, Polestar racing and test driver.

Polestar performance engineering

Chassis

Upgrades include modifications made to increase rigidity of the chassis to cater for the 80% stiffer springs relative to the standard S60 R-Design. These changes combined with the tailored high performance Öhlins shock absorbers and 20” Polestar wheels results in a precise, yet comfortable, driving experience.

Brakes

The brake system has undergone substantial modifications. Most visible are the 371 millimetre ventilated front discs and six-piston Brembo calipers, guaranteeing a high level of braking performance.

Aerodynamics

To reflect the increased performance of the S60 and V60 Polestar, positive aerodynamic effects have been achieved through subtle, yet efficient, modifications based on data from tests in the Volvo Cars wind tunnel. The changes are visible with the front splitters, optimising the airflow underneath the car, as well as a new rear spoiler and diffusor, increasing downforce.

Engine

The six-cylinder turbo-charged T6 engine has undergone extensive development with a new twin-scroll turbo and intercooler to produce 350 HP/257 kW at 5700 rpm and 500 Nm/369 lb-ft at 2800 rpm. The engine breathes through a 2.5” stainless steel exhaust system, making for a throaty engine note.

Transmission

The six-speed automatic gearbox features a new paddle shift system that together with the Polestar developed Haldex four-wheel drive system takes the car from 0-62 mph in just 4.9 seconds and to a limited top speed of 155 mph. The gearbox as well as the four-wheel drive system and traction control system has been recalibrated in order to provide an active driving experience and maximum grip in all situations.

Interior

The interior has been reworked with new details, materials and Polestar colours, such as the steering wheel, seats and more, with the sole purpose of increasing driver support and control.

”All in all we have taken a major step forward in all areas, from chassis and engine to interior and exterior details. Development work has been focused on the overall package in order to create a car that you want to use every day, both from a practical and emotional perspective,” said Henrik Fries, S/V60 Polestar Technical Project Manager.

Sales and delivery

Polestar will begin delivery of the new S60 and V60 Polestar in June 2014 to local markets.

“We are all very excited and proud over our launch of two new cars as yet another step towards a range of Polestar Engineered Volvo cars available for people like us around the world. To do it together with Volvo, one of the world’s leading car manufacturers, is greatly satisfying and we look forward to an exciting future,” said Christian Dahl, CEO of Polestar.

USA - Luxury SUV embodies real-life crashworthiness and Volvo’s longtime commitment to safety

In a testament to Volvo’s longtime commitment to passenger protection, the 2014 Volvo XC90 luxury SUV earned a TOP SAFETY PICK+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Institute’s top safety award.

To earn TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must pass a series of crashworthiness evaluations, including the small overlap front test — a real-life scenario that replicates what happens when the front corner of a vehicle strikes another vehicle or an object.

“Small overlap collisions at high speeds are often very severe,” noted Adam Kopstein, safety and compliance manager for Volvo Cars of North America. “For decades, Volvo's research testing has addressed these crash scenarios because our commitment to safety is at the core of our values.”

In its evaluation of the XC90’s performance, IIHS noted:

• Good structural performance in the small overlap front test
• Low risk of any significant injuries in a crash of high severity
• Side torso and side curtain airbags both deployed.

“The XC90’s structural performance was good in the small overlap front test, and the driver’s space was maintained well,” said IIHS in a released statement. “While many vehicles have had to undergo significant structural changes to earn good ratings in the small overlap test, the XC90 has had the same basic platform since 2003.”

Since its launch, Volvo’s XC90 luxury SUV has won acclaim from legions of satisfied customers while receiving many awards internationally. The XC90 upholds a legacy of safety, such as its pioneering introduction of the world’s first Roll Stability Control.

An all-new XC90 will debut at the end of 2014 and go on sale in early 2015. It will feature Volvo’s next-generation safety and driver-support technologies, including Pedestrian Detection in Darkness and Road Edge and Barrier Detection with Steer Assist.

“In a competitive marketplace where every brand tries to stake its own claim to safety, Volvo continues to affirm our leadership,” said Volvo Cars of North America President and CEO Tony Nicolosi. “We very much appreciate the attention IIHS gives to real-life scenarios such as small overlap collisions and are proud of the XC90’s performance.”

The XC90 is the third Volvo model to earn the TOP SAFETY PICK+ accolade since the Institute began testing for small overlap protection in 2012. The 2013 Volvo S60 luxury sedan and 2013 XC60 crossover each earned the prestigious honor during earlier tests.

The new Volvo Drive-E power-train family, offers low CO2 and great driveability.

Volvo Car Group’s new two-litre, four-cylinder Drive-E powertrain family can truly be considered as offering customers a world-class blend of drivability and low CO2 emissions. The D4 with 181 horsepower and manual gearbox is the first diesel car with this level of power output in the premium D-segment with CO2 emissions under 100 g/km.

The Volvo S60 T6 FWD with 306 horsepower and the new 8-speed automatic is the first car in the segment that delivers over two horsepower per gram of CO2 from a combustion engine only. The car accelerates from 0-62 mph in 5.9 seconds.

“During the development phase of our Drive-E powertrains, we promised to bring efficient driving pleasure into a new dimension. The official European NEDC certification now confirms that we outperform competitors when it comes to power versus CO2 emissions,” says Derek Crabb, Vice President Powertrain Engineering at Volvo Car Group.

The new D4 FWD can be ordered now and is available in the new S60, V60, XC60, V70, XC70 and S80. It is also available to order with the new 8-speed automatic. The new T6 engine is expected to be available during 2014.

Class-leading diesel at 99 g/km

The Volvo S60 D4 with 181 horsepower and manual gearbox has class-leading CO2 emissions at 99 g/km, which translates into fuel consumption of 74.3 mpg. A Volvo V60 D4 with up to 17-inch tyres also breaks the 100-gram barrier according to the NEDC certification with CO2 emissions the same as its’ sister saloon at 99 g/km.

The Drive-E diesels feature world-first i-ART technology with pressure feedback from each fuel injector instead of using a traditional single pressure sensor in the common rail. Each injector has an intelligent chip on top of it that monitors injection pressure. Using this information, the self-adapting i-ART system makes sure that the ideal amount of fuel is injected during each combustion cycle.

“The combination of injection pressure at 2,500 bar and i-ART technology gives the customer an engine with high performance, improved fuel economy and considerably lower emissions. It is a breakthrough comparable to our invention of the lambda sensor for the catalytic converter in 1976,” says Derek Crabb.

Petrol engine with compressor and turbo

The new two-litre, four-cylinder T6 engine features both a supercharger and a turbo charger. Using the supercharger to fill in the bottom end torque gives the petrol engine a big, naturally aspirated feel. The mechanically linked compressor starts to function immediately at low revs, while the turbocharger kicks in when the airflow builds up.

“We have created a range of smaller, more intelligent engines with power curves that give exciting driveability compared with engines with more cylinders. At the same time we continue to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions,” says Derek Crabb.

Prepared for electrification

The Drive-E engines are prepared for future electrification from the start. The compact size of the four-cylinder engines means that the electric motor can be fitted in the front or rear of the vehicle. The battery pack will be located in the centre of the car.

“The success of our V60 Plug-in Hybrid has also proved there is no contradiction between driving pleasure and low emissions. And we have already confirmed that the all-new XC90 will be introduced in 2014 with a petrol plug-in hybrid at the top of the range,” says Derek Crabb. He concludes: “The first Volvo car back in 1927 featured a two-litre, four-cylinder engine. So you can safely say that the new Drive-E powertrain family remains true to our heritage.”

Volvo develops better battery packs to power new generation of cars.

Volvo Car Group has developed a revolutionary concept for lightweight structural energy storage components that could improve the energy usage of future electrified vehicles. The material, consisting of carbon fibres, nano structured batteries and super capacitors, offers lighter energy storage that requires less space in the car, cost effective structure options and is eco-friendly.

As part of an EU-funded research project, including nine other major participants, Volvo Car Group was the only car manufacturer in the project. The project identified a feasible solution to the heavy weight, large size and high costs associated with the batteries seen in hybrids and electric cars today, whilst maintaining the efficient capacity of power and performance. The research project took place over 3.5 years and is now realised in the form of car panels within a Volvo S80 experimental car.

The breakthrough

The answer was found in the combination of carbon fibres and a polymer resin, creating a very advanced nanomaterial, and structural super capacitors. The reinforced carbon fibres sandwich the new battery and are moulded and formed to fit around the car’s frame, such as the door panels, the boot lid and wheel bowl, substantially saving on space. The carbon fibre laminate is first layered, shaped and then cured in an oven to set and harden. The super capacitors are integrated within the component skin. This material can then be used around the vehicle, replacing existing components, to store and charge energy.

The material is recharged and energised by the use of brake energy regeneration in the car or by plugging into a mains electrical grid. It then transfers the energy to the electric motor which is discharged as it is used around the car.

The breakthrough showed that this material not only charges and stores faster than conventional batteries can, but that it is also strong and pliant.

The results so far

Today, Volvo Car Group has evaluated the technology by creating two components for testing and development. These are a boot lid and a plenum cover, tested within the Volvo S80.

The boot lid is a functioning electrically powered storage component and has the potential to replace the standard batteries seen in today’s cars. It is lighter than a standard boot lid, saving on both volume and weight.

The new plenum demonstrates that it can also replace both the rally bar, a strong structural piece that stabilises the car in the front, and the start-stop battery. This saves more than 50% in weight and is powerful enough to supply energy to the car’s 12 Volt system

It is believed that the complete substitution of an electric car’s existing components with the new material could cut the overall weight by more than 15%. This is not only cost effective but would also have improvements to the impact on the environment.

Volvo Car Group lead the way

Electrified cars play an important role in Volvo Car Group’s future product portfolio and the company will continue to find and develop innovative and advanced technical solutions for the cars of tomorrow.

Most powerful Volvo V60 Wagon in its history heading to the US

Targeting best-in-class performance and best-in-class fuel economy, Volvo Cars of North America announced engines for the much-anticipated Volvo V60 sportswagon that will hit American shores in January.

From the automaker known for its wagons, the new Volvo V60 is by no means ordinary. It provides all the handling of a dynamic sports sedan but offers additional versatility for people who need a wagon. Pricing and specifications will be announced at a later date.

Powered By a Range of Engine Choices

The V60 will feature front-drive power from the new Drive-E family and all-wheel-drive models will be powered by engines from Volvo’s current lineup. One of the Drive-E gasoline engines will be offered — a two-liter, turbocharged, 240-horsepower version.

“This is an exciting time of transformation for Volvo and shows our Swedish heart is beating strongly,” said Volvo Cars of North America President and CEO John Maloney. “The V60 signifies our first step in a gradual move toward powerful, highly efficient, four-cylinder engines across the entire portfolio of our vehicles.”

As a result, U.S. V60 customers can choose between the new engine and some current engines until Volvo transitions solely to Drive-E. At the top of the power heap is the performance-tuned T6 engine offered in the V60 R-Design, making 325 horsepower and 354 lb.-feet of torque.

The smaller, lighter Drive-E engines deliver considerably lower emissions and higher fuel economy savings — ranging from 13 to 26 percent depending on the engine to which they are compared. They also offer the opportunity to be augmented by electrification. Specific fuel economy numbers will become available shortly before cars with Drive-E powertrains reach retail outlets early next year.

Most Powerful Wagon in Volvo History

For the more performance-minded individual, Volvo’s R-Design version of the V60 promises a more intense driving experience. Decked out in distinctive R-Design visual cues, revved by the performance-tuned T6 engine and enhanced with Advanced Quick Shift — transmission optimization software that improves the speed of each gear change — the V60 R-Design will be the fastest and most powerful wagon in Volvo history.

FRANKFURT - Volvo

The rapid transformation of Volvo Car Group (Volvo Cars) is highly evident at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The new Volvo Concept Coupé, which was revealed at a press conference today, showcases the capability of the company’s new Scalable Product Architecture – and the new, super-efficient four-cylinder Drive-E powertrains are now available in six Volvo models.

“We are creating a new product portfolio that blends a strong heritage with innovative technology and emotional design. Every core area is brought into a new dimension, also injecting more emotion into the rational properties that are the heart and soul of Volvo,” said Lex Kerssemakers, Senior Vice President, Product Strategy and Vehicle Line Management at Volvo Car Group.

Paving the way for new XC90
Concept Coupé is the first in a series of three concept cars that demonstrate the new design direction of Volvo Cars. They are paving the way for the introduction of the all-new XC90 next year.

“The Volvo Concept Coupé show what you can expect from our new architecture: the confident stance, the proportions and the most prominent design signatures. Even though the all-new XC90 is a different type of car, you will recognise the connection instantly,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President Design at Volvo Car Group.

Launch of Drive-E powertrains
The first three engines from Volvo Cars’ new two-litre, four-cylinder Drive-E Powertrain family are launched during the autumn of 2013.

Initially, the new S60, V60 and XC60 are available with three engines from the new engine family: the 306 hp petrol turbo T6, the 245 hp T5 and the turbo diesel D4 with 181 hp. The T5 and the D4 are also available in the new Volvo V70, XC70 and S80. To deliver the desired responsive, smooth and fuel-efficient drivability, the engines are teamed either with a new eight-speed automatic gearbox from Aisin or an enhanced six-speed manual, tuned for improved fuel economy.

The T6 and D4 will be available in the UK.

Volvo Cars’ strategy is to use electrification to create the most powerful versions in the new four-cylinder Drive-E engine family, taking power figures up into V8 territory. The concept car in Frankfurt is equipped with Volvo Cars’ ingenious plug-in hybrid technology. A high-performance petrol engine teamed with an electric motor on the rear axle gives Volvo Concept Coupé a total output of about 400 hp and over 600 Nm of torque.

“Our successful V60 Plug-in Hybrid has already proved that the most efficient car can be one of the most fun to drive, and the pleasure is guilt free. And today we can confirm that the new XC90 also will come a plug-in hybrid at the top of the range,” said Lex Kerssemakers.

World-first I-Art
The high-performance petrol engine T6 is fitted with a supercharger and turbocharger combined, while I-Art delivers seemless and frugal diesel performance. Developed together with Volvo strategic partner Denso, I-Art features pressure feedback from each fuel injector. This ensures that the ideal amount of fuel is injected in each of the cylinders during each combustion cycle.

“Our four-cylinder engines offer higher performance than today’s six-cylinder units and lower fuel consumption than our current, already efficient four-cylinders,” said Lex Kerssemakers.

New features in 60-series
On top of the new Drive-E powertrains, Volvo Cars introduce new infotainment and safety features in the 60-series. Sensus Connect features a refreshed HMI with a number of innovative functions. Lane Keeping Aid, which helps the driver stay in the lane by applying extra steering torque to the steering column, and the parallel parking wizard Park Assist Pilot are now available in the S60 and V60.