When it comes to hybrids, it seems smaller is better. Rival automakers' hybrid and electric vehicles are all of the compact persuasion, and for good reason; smaller and lighter vehicles mean even better fuel efficiency in a car that is made to utilize energy in the most efficient ways. So it's little surprise that there's a discussion of a new Volvo hybrid in the form of a supermini.
And when we say "discussion," it truly is such; Lex Kerssemakers, Volvo's head of product planning, has stated that there are no plans but talks are in motion. "Every manufacturer is talking about platform and parts sharing at the moment - it is the only sensible way - so it is certainly something that might be possible."1 What they're looking for, first and foremost, is a platform partner.
Currently, Volvo and owner Geely are working on the Scalable Platform Architecture platform that will launch in 2015 for the next generation of cars like the future S60. Because of this, the budget for making another platform all on their own is nonexistent. A partner is necessary.
However, the sales of hybrids is giving Volvo hope for new future models. The production of the S60 Plug-In Hybrid will double next year, as interests rise; they expected to sell 5,000 units when it was introduced but, due to such high demand, they're now anticipating around 10,000 annually.
The prospect of a supermini hybrid is certainly exciting, and all of us here at North Point Volvo in Alpharetta, GA, serving the greater Atlanta area, are definitely crossing our fingers that the automaker can find both the time and the right partner for such a project. Until then, stay tuned to our blog for all the details as they arise.
Source: 1 http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/industry/volvo-could-launch-hybrid-supermini
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