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Volvo recalls 27,457 new vehicles over a brake-by-wire issue

Eight Volvos from the 2023 model year have been drawn into a recall over software in their brake-by-wire systems. The models at issue are everything Volvo sells — the C40, XC40, S60, XC60, V60, V60 Cross Country, V90 Cross Country, and XC90. The combined recall population numbers 27,457 cars. The problem is that an in-vehicle diagnostic test to check the grounding of the system can trigger a fault in the vehicle's Brake Control Module 2. The fault doesn't always occur, but when it does, the vehicle reverts to its hydraulic system so the car can still stop. However, without the brake-by-wire system, the driver doesn't get the benefit of software-defined safety systems like ABS, ESC, Traction Control as well as convenience features like Pilot Assist, adaptive cruise control and one-pedal driving. Drivers might be alerted to the situation with a warning message and malfunction lamp in the gauge cluster, or a stiff brake pedal. The automaker says it has had no reports of accidents, injuries or fatalities because of the problem. If the car is turned off and able to enter what Volvo calls "deep sleep," the electronics will clear the fault. To fix the issue, Volvo will send an over-the-air update with logic that's a better fit for the Brake Control Module 2 hardware. The automaker says the new code "will be implemented on February 20" of this year, but in another example of the digital world outpacing regulatory processes, Volvo will begin notifying owners on March 15. Related video: This content is hosted by a third party. To view it, please update your privacy preferences. Manage Settings.

2022 Volvo C40 Recharge First Drive Review | All electric, all Swedish

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. — Volvo doesnÂ’t rock the design boat often, but the 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge is an exception to the Swedish car companyÂ’s staid, yet handsome norm. The C40 is a fully-electric crossover coupe, and it is VolvoÂ’s first vehicle to adopt this fastback shape. Not only that, but itÂ’s also VolvoÂ’s second electric car, following closely on the heels of the XC40 Recharge, a vehicle weÂ’ll drive soon. With the C40 Recharge being a new shape for Volvo, the design and technology teams are using it to debut some new ideas both inside and out. The rear end features new LED taillight technology from Volvo that features segmented LEDs and sequentially activating turn indicators for a different look than the typical fully-lit Volvo taillight. Its grille is debuting a new “Iron Mark” that houses a brand-new (and improved) suite of radar for the driver assistance systems — the logo is also now heated to ensure that neither ice nor snow buildup will stop the systems from functioning.  As for the crossover coupe part of this design, youÂ’ll notice the rear is full of spoilers. VolvoÂ’s head of design, Eric Beak, tells us that the dual, fin-like rooftop spoilers are there as aerodynamic aids in a bid to increase range. Meanwhile, the big spoiler jutting out on the carÂ’s trailing edge is designed to give the car greater stability at high speeds by reducing lift. The 20-inch wheels you see pictured here are the only option, so hopefully you like them. We do, and we like the look of this car overall. Photographs donÂ’t properly capture the angularity and shape of the body panels, but the C40 is a striking crossover coupe when you get up close to it. What could ultimately be even more controversial than the exterior design are the interior material choices. You wonÂ’t find an inch of leather covering the C40Â’s interior. Instead, Volvo is focusing on sustainable materials made using recyclables. For example, the seats are constructed of VolvoÂ’s suede-like Microtech material that is made of recycled polyester. Ditching leather is great, so long as the replacement is suitable for a luxury vehicle at a luxury price, and in this case, it works in nearly every area. Our one complaint is the steering wheel, for the synthetic leather substitute used here feels too much like plastic and is nowhere near as nice or supple to hold as quality leather is. When it comes to driving and charging the C40, the experience is a vaguely familiar one.

Volvo Pure Tension concept folds solar charging pavilion into trunk

Even by the 'anything-goes' standards of concept cars, this one is a head-spinner: the "Pure Tension" Volvo V60 Pavilion, commissioned by Volvo Italy and winner of the Pure Volvo Pavilion Design competition. The alien form seen hovering all over the rendered V60 is a pavilion, as in the kind erected for trade shows or outdoor events. Developed by Synthesis Design + Architecture, Buro Happold, and Fabric Images, the pavilion is a flexible mesh structure held in place by a carbon fiber rods.
What's more, the mesh is embedded with photovotaic cells so that the pavilion can absorb energy from the sun or indoor lighting, making it a portable charging station. It can power itself or the crossover, the V60 at the center of it all being a diesel hybrid that plugs straight into the pavilion. When it's time to go, the entire structure can be folded small enough to fit in the trunk of the car.
We're told it will be shown in September in Rome. Even if we never see this particular creation on the streets, it's comfortable proof that our future will eventually be wilder than we can imagine.