Press Releases

2005 Volvo V50 - Environmental Philosophy

All-New Volvo V50

 

 

Built according to Volvo's consistent environmental philosophy

  • Materials and technologies selected to minimize risk to health
  • New engine technology produces environmental benefits
  • Premair®
  • Pollen filter is standard
  • Environmental Product Declaration from the start

 

Careful selection of materials and technologies

 

The all-new Volvo V50 is produced at one of the most modern production plants in the world. Both the manufacturing methods and the materials and substances used in production have been chosen to minimize the risk to health for both production personnel and people outside the plant.

Examples: Chromium-free body material pre-treatment, water-borne exterior paints, CFC-free materials

 

With low emissions as the focal point, the all-new Volvo V50 is designed to have the smallest possible negative impact on the environment.

Examples: Aluminum low-friction engines, effective catalytic converters with three-way technology - located close to the engine, oxygen sensors (Lambda sensor) both upstream and downstream of the catalytic converter assist in the recovery of evaporated fuel vapor (EVAP).

 

Like all Volvo cars, the Volvo V50 has been designed for a high recycling rate.

Examples: 85 percent by weight of the materials in the car can be recycled; plastic components are labeled to facilitate recycling; recycled felt and wood-fiber materials are used in certain interior trim components.

 

Improved fuel economy and lower emission levels

 

The new gasoline engines are a further development of Volvo's low-friction engines.

 

The manifold and turbo unit in the T5 engine have been cast together in heat resistant steel (1,922°F). This not only reduces space within the engine compartment, it's also an innovative way to keep the air flowing through the turbo housing cool.

 

As a result, the engine can be run on a leaner fuel mixture, thereby reducing fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, especially when driving at high speeds.

 

The new plastic inlet manifold also produces positive environmental effects. The minimal heat-conducting ability of plastic results in cooler inlet air and thereby more efficient combustion.

 

The Lambda sensors have been improved to heat up more rapidly and to be activated more efficiently in cold starts. This helps to reduce emissions.

 

The five-cylinder engines in the Volvo V50 have radiators featuring Volvo's patented PremAir® system, which has been developed in collaboration with the Engelhard Corporation. PremAir® is a system that uses a catalytic coating on the radiator. It converts up to 75 percent of the ozone passing through the radiator into harmless oxygen.

 

Complies with the next generation of emissions regulations

 

The five-cylinder engines have been upgraded to comply with the next generation of North American and Californian emissions regulations for this decade.

 

These regulations are the most rigorous emissions standards in the world and they have contributed to the additional development of techniques to accommodate the HC and NOx standards - as well as improving durability. Volvo offers this refined technology for emissions on the new five-cylinder engines in every market.

 

Cleaner inside than out

 

Like other Volvo models, the all-new Volvo V50 has been developed to offer its passengers a clean and healthy cabin. A cabin pollen filter is standard.

 

All the materials that are used in the interior have been selected to limit the likelihood of allergic reactions and reduce the risk for other known health problems that can be caused by interior material.

 

Examples: Low PVC content in the interior trim materials, chromium-free leather, surface treatment of interior fittings to prevent the emission of nickel, ÖKO-TEX-certified fabrics (the ÖKO-TEX label is an international registered symbol for the testing of textiles and leather. This certification ensures that textiles and leather are free from substances that can cause allergies).

 

Environmental Product Declaration from the start

 

Like other Volvo models, the all-new Volvo V50 is accompanied by an environmental product declaration (EPD), something Volvo was the first car manufacturer in the world to introduce. Volvo Cars' EPD is based on a holistic approach with the emphasis on health, resource utilization and ecological consequences. It gives the car buyer an overview of the environmental impact of the car throughout its service life, making it easier to compare the eco performance of Volvo's various models and engine alternatives.

Keywords:
V50, 2005
Descriptions and facts in this press material relate to Volvo Cars' international car range. Described features might be optional. Vehicle specifications may vary from one country to another and may be altered without prior notification.