(from easier motoring)

As well as a focus on biofuels and hybrid technology, Volvo is also making energy-efficiency improvements to conventional drive trains. This work has led to the development of two new innovations which will be introduced during 2008 – a low CO2 emitting Volvo C30 and a new diesel Powershift transmission for the Volvo C30, S40 and V50.

The new Volvo C30 Efficiency makes its global debut at the Frankfurt Motorshow on 11th September and is powered by a 105PS 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine. By implementing a series of changes to the aerodynamics and rolling resistance as well as introducing higher gearing and improving powertrain efficiency, Volvo has improved fuel consumption to 62.8mpg and reduced CO2 emissions to below 120g/km.

The Volvo C30 Efficiency becomes Volvo’s first model to gain a B-band VED tax rating and will also be exempt from the London Congestion Charge, if the proposed changes to the scheme go ahead next year.

Early 2008 will also see the introduction of a new 2-litre turbodiesel (2.0D) automatic transmission with Powershift technology for the Volvo C30, S40 and V50 model ranges. The Powershift gearbox consists of two clutches that work in parallel and, since there is no disruption in torque delivery during the gearchanging process, gearshifts are instantaneous and the fuel efficiency rating is higher, delivering improved fuel consumption compared to a standard automatic gearbox.

“We are firmly committed to lowering the fuel consumption of our conventional petrol and diesel engines. By doing this we will continuously reduce the overall CO2 emission level for our whole model range,” says Magnus Jonsson, Senior Vice President Research and Development at Volvo Cars.