Volvo sets lofty goals with Concept Universe unveiling

Volvo Shakes Up the Automotive World with New Concepts

Volvo is making waves in the automotive industry with its latest concepts, the Concept Universe and the upcoming XC40.

Last week, Volvo unveiled the Concept Universe at the Shanghai Motor Show, marking a significant step towards a new, high-end Volvo model. The design, which some critics have described as a slightly updated take on a 3-box Volvo, has drawn attention for its spangly grill, reminiscent of a cheap Christmas cracker. Despite the criticism, Volvo claims the Concept Universe is designed to spark a subconscious desire and a feeling of eternal beauty.

Meanwhile, Volvo has been teasing the new XC40, a compact SUV, as a concept ahead of its debut next week. The XC40 is underpinned by Volvo's new CMA Platform, promising a sleek and modern design. Volvo has used SnapChat to say the new XC40 is "Not your daddy's Volvo".

The Concept Universe is not the first concept car from Volvo. In 2011, the Concept You was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show, followed by the Concept Universe at the Shanghai Motor Show. The Concept You is described as a more convincing offering compared to the Concept Universe at Shanghai 2011.

Volvo's move towards new concepts comes as two major motor shows, the 2011 New York Motor Show and the 2011 Shanghai Motor Show, loom on the horizon. The automaker is clearly aiming to make a strong impression, positioning the Concept Universe as a potential competitor to the Audi A8.

The Concept Universe is intended to appeal to the affluent Chinese market, a strategic move given the growing importance of the Chinese market in the global automotive industry.

It remains to be seen how the Concept Universe and the new XC40 will be received by the public. One thing is for sure, Volvo is shaking up the automotive world with its innovative designs and bold moves.