First CMA-based car to enter production in 2017.
Seen here are the live images of the Volvo Concept 40.1 and Volvo Concept 40.2 which were unveiled in an event in Gothenburg, Sweden, yesterday. The new concepts represent the future of compact cars from the Swedish car maker, which will be underpinned by the all-new CMA (Compact Modular Architecture) platform.
The Volvo Concept 40.1 is reportedly a design precursor for the Volvo XC40 compact SUV, which will challenge the likes of the Mercedes GLA, Audi Q3 and BMW X1. The Concept 40.2 on the other hand previews an entry-level sedan with the distinctive 'Cross Country' elements seen on the S60 Cross Country such as the higher ground clearance and subtle body cladding on the bumpers and running boards.
Segment-wise, it will compete with the Audi A3 Sedan, Mercedes CLA and the soon-to-launch BMW 1 Series sedan. Like the latter, China will be a key market for the sedan as will, reportedly, U.S.A.
The Volvo Car Group also confirmed that it will manufacture a pure-electric car on the CMA platform. The Concept 40.1 and Concept 40.2-based production cars will feature Twin Engine plug-in hybrid powertrain variants, the car maker stated.
Also read: Volvo XC90 - Review
Håkan Samuelsson, president and chief executive of Volvo Car Group confirmed that the first new 40 series car will enter production in 2017. The Concept 40.1-based XC40 is expected to be the first CMA-based product to enter production lines.
