Serenity now: the Volvo Concept Universe

"The Concept Universe offers the world a sneak preview of what people can expect from our next top-of-the line sedan," says Stefan Jacoby, President and CEO of Volvo Car Corporation.

The Concept Universe has been designed to spark a subconscious desire and a feeling of eternal beauty. It moves towards the future with its coupe-like roofline and contemporary, solid rear, but it also echoes Volvo's proud heritage by borrowing design cues from classic models of the past.

"Just like fine luxury goods, this design feels handcrafted and durable enough to stand the test of time," says Peter Horbury, Vice President Design at Volvo Car Corporation.

"We will compete with the best with our special kind of Scandinavian Design. It is unmatched in performance and technology, but without superficiality or complication."

In a world where multi-tasking is par for the course and the pace of life is faster and more complex than ever, there's a discernible trend among luxury carmakers to pare back and simplify the stylistic elements and control the interface of luxury vehicles.

The interior of the Concept Universe is one such example. Its maker's describe it as, "a comfortable, cultivated environment that is also user-focused and refreshingly uncomplicated. It is driver-orientated in the front and comfortably relaxed in the rear."

"The in-command driver environment has intuitive controls and a touch-screen that approaches the hand when the driver reaches towards it - with everything operated from a seat that is inspired by ultra-comfortable chairs.

"Passengers in the rear seat are embraced by pure comfort. The interior moulds into the rear seat and becomes part of the seating environment."

... It's all about being cocooned and insulated from the hurly-burly of modern life.

The dynamic feel and the dark colour scheme of the front seats fades seamlessly towards the rear until it fully transforms into a light rear seat haven of calmness.

Concept Universe is full of classic forms, materials and textures, used with a twist to create a special contemporary luxury experience.

"The Concept Universe is exceptionally refined, yet with all the simplistic assets that make Volvo champions of the uncomplicated. There is a growing appreciation for this ingenious blend of design and technology among modern luxury car buyers. This trend paves the way for our success. We are convinced that our special brand of luxury has a great future," Peter Horbury concludes.

"Our aim is to be the brand that best understands what buyers of modern luxury cars want. We are eager to hear what the most demanding Chinese customers think of this luxurious concept. Later, we will show the design in Europe and the United States in order to bring it into the global context that we are aiming for with all our car models," says Stefan Jacoby, President and CEO of Volvo Car Corporation.

The marketing people at Volvo make a captivating case for their luxury cocoon; if a life of serenity can be bought, Volvo wants to drive you there.