2004 Volvo 3CC Concept

While the vivid yellow trim used to upholster much of the 3CC's interior may not be to everyone's tastes, almost all will enjoy

The 3CC has a torque-to-weight ratio comparable to Volvo's own high-performance S60 T5 sports sedan. (Photo: Volvo Cars of Canada)

the smoke-tinted transparent roof panels and delicately thin pillars which provide an unobstructed view of the road ahead. The highlight of this forward and simple interior comes from Volvo's latest innovation for the car's climate, stereo and lighting controls which can be actuated by placing a finger within a 5 mm distance from the button.

Between the subtle-free styling, techno-inspired interior and electric motor propulsion, the biggest advancement Volvo made with the 3CC was its chassis design, and how

Amidst the yellow and silver, unique buttons are actuated by placing a finger 5 mm in front of the switch. (Photo: Volvo Cars of Canada)

the engineers managed to keep weight down. A one-piece shell crafted from carbon fiber was employed to reduce mass, allowing the 3CC to have a torque-to-weight ratio comparable to Volvo's own high-performance S60 T5 sports sedan.

As for the chassis itself, Volvo decided that a one-off high-tensile steel spaceframe with a lightweight composite sandwich floor would be a better move than a conventional, heavy monocoque. The space in between the two layers has been used to house lithium-ion battery cells similar to those used in modern, slim laptops. Volvo claims that the layout could be applied to conventional gasoline, diesel, natural gas or a hybrid ICE-electric powertrain expanding possibilities for a production-optimized vehicle in the near future.