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As posted at
http://www.car.volvo.se
14 June, 2001
New Volvo S60 AWD – with electronically controlled all-wheel drive for
safer, sportier driving on any surface
At its world premiere in the summer of 2000, the Volvo S60 was described as
the Volvo Car Corporation’s sportiest and most dynamic saloon model ever.
The next stage in the company’s commitment to enhanced driving pleasure is now
being taken with the introduction of the Volvo S60 AWD – the first Volvo car
with electronically-controlled all-wheel drive.
The new Volvo S60 AWD (All Wheel Drive) will be given its first public showing
at the international Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2001. Just like previous
AWD models from Volvo, the all-wheel drive system is completely independent of
the driver. In other words, the power is distributed automatically between the
front and rear wheels to guarantee the best possible grip on every road surface.
Electronically-controlled all-wheel drive
The main news is that the Volvo S60 AWD is equipped with
electronically-controlled AWD. The system has been developed in collaboration
with one of the pioneers in this field – the Swedish company Haldex.
In this new system, the power is distributed between the front and rear wheels
via a wet multi-plate clutch.
The AWD system is connected to the Multiplex system in the car. As a result, it
communicates with the other systems in the car in order to optimise all-wheel
drive at all times to match the driving situation.
This digital communication involves the Traction Control System (TRACS), for
example. At the end of 2001, it will also be possible to equip the Volvo S60 AWD
with DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control).
Lightning-fast engagement and disengagement
The electronically-controlled AWD system is characterised first and foremost by
its extremely fast engagement and disengagement times, a further illustration of
Volvo Cars’ commitment to driving safety.
“The speed of the system gives what was already a well-balanced car
exceptionally good road performance. After all, the owner of a sporty saloon
model does not use all-wheel drive primarily for accessibility but for optimal
roadholding and stability,” says Hans Gustavsson, Senior Vice President
Research, Development & Purchase at Volvo Car Corporation.
Five-cylinder turbo developing 200 bhp
The Volvo S60 AWD is equipped with a five-cylinder, 2.4-litre engine with a
light-pressure turbocharger. Output is 200 bhp at 5,100 rpm and maximum torque
is 285 Nm at engine speeds of as little as 1,800 rpm.
This engine is also used in the Volvo S60 2.4T. It is a member of the new
generation of RN engines which have undergone extensive modifications to make
them cleaner, more fuel efficient and more effective.
Turbocharging gives the engine a lightning response and impressive power at
really low engine speeds – two very important features when it comes to the
Volvo S60 AWD’s sporty and dynamic characteristics.
Sales of the new Volvo S60 AWD will begin at the end of August 2001 and the
sales target for the first year is 9,000 cars.
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