Li Shufu gets its meaning: Volvo comes with S-Class competitor
Posted on 19-09-2013 at 12:29 by robbie – 65 Comments”
Since the Chinese Geely Volvo took over the dream of top executive Li Shufu is already a flagship model that can compete with cars such as the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7 Series.
However, there was a problem, because the management of Volvo saw it-don’t sit down. The Swedes had little sense to invest much money in such a prestigious project only on the long-term money would give. Still, it seems that Shufu is now the longest end has drawn.
Rich Chinese love expensive flashy cars and let them see how rich they are rich. And that applies, of course, not really with the philosophy of the modest Volvo. A few months ago, Volvo CEO Hakan Samuelsson is still the following lines:
“Volvo will never compete in that segment where customers are expecting to have V12 or V8 engines. Volvos are 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engine cars. Showing off has never been part of the Volvo brand.”
A problem in the development of a real S-Class/7 Series competitor is that such a car actually about a fat V6 (or V8) must have rear wheel drive and must have. Volvo is currently, however, busy with all her models with four-cylinder engine (VEA) engines and a platform with front-wheel drive (SPA platform).
These problems can however be circumvented by a four-cylinder with a turbo and supercharger and the rear axle driven by an electric motor. Exactly what we at the Volvo Concept Coupé with 400 hp/600 Nm saw. That a top model, in the basis, good front wheel drive can have the Audi has with the A8.
The future S100, specially for China is developed, it will be a compromise between the wishes of Li Shifu and the management of Volvo. On the basis of the new S80 will be an extended and more luxurious car to be developed that to all probability the name S100 are going to get. At this time sells Volvo in China for an extended S80, but this S100 would also be other looks.
The battle between the empty Volvo and ceo Li Shufu is pretty clear from this quote from an anonymous Volvo manager:
“We told Chairman Li we should stay away (from a luxury flagship sedan). It’s too long a journey to make with little hope for a quick return. We think it’s better to spend your money in areas where we can make a difference. We told him that, and I have the feeling he buys into that.”
Also, it is clear that wealthy Chinese are not a lot of taste:
“Volvo management says they (ostentatious Chinese consumers)are not our target customers. The problem is, there aren’t many people in China today with good taste. Mistresses love BMWs. Coal mine owners and property developers drive Mercedes. Those rich people like to show off.”
Before this S100 in the Chinese market, we’ll need some patience. If it is a success turns out to be would be a successor of this car possibly even to Europe. (via: sohu.com & autonews.com)
Gallery: Volvo Concept Coupe
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