Detroit Auto Show 2012
This year at the Detroit Auto Show, we showed our XC60 Plug-In Hybrid to North American Journalists, then took it to Washington, D.C. mainly for governmental people and to show during the public days. I think what was most impressive was how this technology is like a movable feast.
Since 1992 with introduction of 850, the idea has been to build a common engine mounting structure with capabilities to use different engine combinations with different model lines – thereby minimizing component requirements. It’s similar to when we put a 4 cylinder into C30 for European markets and then a 5 cylinder here in the U.S. “No sheet metal was harmed” engine swap.
The first time I saw the 850 engine cradle, well there went my days of pulling an engine up and out, now it was down and out, and no way was I attempting that. Besides, about the only reason to work on one of our aluminum (grey) engines was for more hp. Does anyone remember our green engines? 
So with PHEV technology, we can basically have one engine family that is transferable to other models. It’s a good way to create market flexibility and help keep costs in line. XC60 is very interesting. We should know in a couple of years what it will be for our market.
This video gives a brief idea of what our largest U.S. auto show is like. Arne Akerberg only tells half of what goes on. He mentions 20 shipping containers – that’s 20 of those monster sea containers and inside are more wooden crates. The containers are shipped to a remote storage place and the wooden crates are stacked out behind the Detroit Convention Center. It is like that last scene in “Raiders of the Lost Ark.”
Every year we pretty much have the same VCC crew come over to set up everything. The computer guys are amazing. Their room is stuffed with power systems, TV support and lighting controls. When they are finished, most are finally taking a break. Good people and great support when needed. Our food service people have also been with us for a rather long time. Good to see familiar faces while in Detroit.
dan
2 Comments
I’m sure the XC60 hybrid is a fine car, but it strikes me as a far cry from the V60 plug-in diesel hybrid being introduced in Europe. That car is beautiful and practical–my current idea of the ‘ideal’ car. Is there really no chance it will ever make it to the U.S.?
Hi Onno,
The concept of how we do our power train design has been to allow flexibility to change out one kind of system for another w/o huge investments in modifications to chassis and sheet metal structures. The key word when reading about XC60 PHEV is it is a ‘concept’ – in this case a concept of one body style with one unique engine. XC60 makes up about 25% of our sales in this market, which makes sense to do PHEV concept with this car. We have not determined what model will get this power system. I suspect we will do this with a car that makes sense to our buyers. As in any business, never say never. We all here are looking forward to this new technology in our market.