CWS sensors detect vehicles ahead that are moving in the same direction as the Volvo. Should such a vehicle brake rapidly while you are inattentive - say dialing a number on your cell phone, (obviously not recommended) - CWS will anticipate a brake application. Failure to detect sufficient braking will trigger the warning function. If the risk of a collision increases after the alert, CWS will prepare the brakes for immediate response by partially applying brake force ahead of time. A quick hit of the brake pedal will instantly net full braking force, shortening the stopping distance enough to hopefully avoid a collision or at least mitigate it.
On the lighter side of cutting-edge technology is Volvo's adjustable power steering, the force of which can be selected by the driver. The three settings are "low," "medium," and "high." I found medium to be the most natural given the S80's hearty engine and spirited chassis. Other drivers, especially elderly folk, may find the low-resistance setting more manageable while assertive drivers are likely to choose "high" resistance to acquire a true sports car feel.
The three technologies touched on above can all be manipulated through an interface screen with a series of buttons mounted on the centre stack. Both BLIS and CWS can be completely deactivated if so desired, or they can be tailored to one's preference by simply pushing a few buttons. Unlike some fairly complex interfaces (think BMW i-Drive), Volvo's setup is remarkably easy to navigate through using "enter" and "exit" keys to self-select from pre-formatted listings.
In addition to the options discussed above, Volvo's Personal Car Communicator (PCC) technology expands the key fob concept by incorporating an information button, which from a radius of 60-100 yards can provide a current report on the vehicle's status. A green light response means the car is locked and secure while a yellow light means it's not. A red light means the alarm has been triggered and a flashing red light means a heartbeat has been detected inside the vehicle. Owners approaching their Volvo at night in a lonely parking lot are sure to find comfort in knowing the vehicle will be secure and free of intruders upon arrival.
Volvo isn't alone in the hi-tech game of gidgets and gadgets. Many automotive manufacturers are taking advantage of the trickle-down effect, and as they do the cost of these advancements will diminish, making them affordable to the average car consumer rather than the well-healed few.
photo:Rob Rothwell
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| Volvo's interface is easy to work with. |
On the lighter side of cutting-edge technology is Volvo's adjustable power steering, the force of which can be selected by the driver. The three settings are "low," "medium," and "high." I found medium to be the most natural given the S80's hearty engine and spirited chassis. Other drivers, especially elderly folk, may find the low-resistance setting more manageable while assertive drivers are likely to choose "high" resistance to acquire a true sports car feel.
The three technologies touched on above can all be manipulated through an interface screen with a series of buttons mounted on the centre stack. Both BLIS and CWS can be completely deactivated if so desired, or they can be tailored to one's preference by simply pushing a few buttons. Unlike some fairly complex interfaces (think BMW i-Drive), Volvo's setup is remarkably easy to navigate through using "enter" and "exit" keys to self-select from pre-formatted listings.
In addition to the options discussed above, Volvo's Personal Car Communicator (PCC) technology expands the key fob concept by incorporating an information button, which from a radius of 60-100 yards can provide a current report on the vehicle's status. A green light response means the car is locked and secure while a yellow light means it's not. A red light means the alarm has been triggered and a flashing red light means a heartbeat has been detected inside the vehicle. Owners approaching their Volvo at night in a lonely parking lot are sure to find comfort in knowing the vehicle will be secure and free of intruders upon arrival.
Volvo isn't alone in the hi-tech game of gidgets and gadgets. Many automotive manufacturers are taking advantage of the trickle-down effect, and as they do the cost of these advancements will diminish, making them affordable to the average car consumer rather than the well-healed few.
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| The S80 offers safety and convenience behind the wheel. |
photo:Rob Rothwell
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