Volvo unveils the SPA-based Concept Coupe

29/08/2013 - 13:17 Volvo Concept Coupe, Volvo, 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show Nithyanandh K

The Volvo Concept Coupe has been unveiled ahead of its public debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The Concept Coupe is the first of three concept cars to showcase the design possibilities created by the automaker's Scalable Platform Architecture (SPA).

The concept derives its inspiration from the Volvo P1800, a sports coupe which was launched in 1961. The company even terms the new concept as the next generation P1800.

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This is the first project from the newly appointed senior vice president of design, Thomas Ingenlath. The first production model to carry the new design philosophy will be the next gen XC90 in 2014.

Ingenlath said -

Even though the all-new XC90 is an entirely different type of car, you will recognize the connection instantly when it is revealed next year.

The front of the Concept Coupe is characterized by narrow headlamps containing 'T' shaped LED DRLs and an upright grille with vertical slats. A long bonnet, swooping roofline and a stubby rear define the design.

The futuristic interior combines the usage of black leather, naturally aged wood and chrome combination. The centre console has a huge touchscreen for the multimedia infotainment system.

The Concept Coupe is powered by a two-litre Drive-E petrol engine that employs both a turbocharger and a supercharger. The engine is assisted by an electric motor (at the rear axle) to deliver a combined power output of 400bhp and 600 Nm of torque.

Volvo says that the SPA also supports autonomous driving systems, the first instance of which will be released next year. A fully autonomous vehicle would come in 2020.