Digital Twins and Virtual Testing

Innovation at Volvo is not confined to physical testing alone. The company has embraced digitalization in a big way, creating digital twins of their vehicles and test tracks. This means that before a car even hits the road, it has been rigorously tested in a virtual environment that replicates real-world conditions with incredible accuracy. This digital approach allows Volvo to experiment with different designs and configurations without the time and cost associated with building physical prototypes. It’s a level of efficiency that is impressive and ensures that by the time a Volvo car reaches production, it has already undergone countless hours of virtual testing.

Volvo’s Commitment to Safety and Innovation

When we think of Volvo, the first words that come to mind are safety, innovation, and perhaps a sense of understated luxury. As a brand, Volvo has become synonymous with groundbreaking automotive safety features and a relentless pursuit of excellence in engineering. This reputation is not just the result of clever marketing, but a reflection of decades of rigorous research and development. Recently, I had the opportunity to explore Volvo’s state-of-the-art facilities in Gothenburg, Sweden, where their commitment to safety and innovation was on full display.

The World of Volvo: A Testament to Swedish Innovation

Volvo’s dedication to safety is backed by a significant financial commitment. The company has invested close to a billion dollars in research and development, particularly in battery safety - a crucial concern in today’s electric vehicle (EV) era. This investment is not just about meeting regulatory requirements but surpassing them to ensure that Volvo remains a leader in automotive safety.

During my visit, I was shown the extensive testing that Volvo conducts on its battery packs. The process involves subjecting the batteries to extreme conditions, such as temperatures ranging from -30°C to +60°C, to ensure they perform reliably in any climate. This is particularly relevant for markets like Malaysia, where the hot and humid climate can pose challenges for battery efficiency and longevity.

Volvo’s commitment to safety extends beyond just the vehicle itself. At their Gothenburg headquarters, I learned about the company’s philosophy of “holistic safety,” which considers not just the safety of the occupants but also that of pedestrians and other road users. This approach is evident in features like pedestrian detection systems and the use of sustainable materials in car construction. Walking through the world of Volvo, I was struck by how this commitment to safety permeates every aspect of their operations. From the use of high-strength steel in their vehicle frames to the careful design of their interiors to minimize injury in the event of a crash, it’s clear that safety is more than just a buzzword for Volvo—it’s a way of life.

The Wind Tunnel: Where Aerodynamics Meets Safety

One of the highlights of the visit was the tour of Volvo’s combined aerodynamic and climatic wind tunnel. This facility allows Volvo to simulate real-world driving conditions and test how their vehicles perform under different weather scenarios. As a Malaysian journalist, it was fascinating to see how a carmaker from a temperate region goes to great lengths to ensure their vehicles are safe and efficient even in tropical climates like ours.

The wind tunnel is a closed-loop horizontal system, capable of simulating wind speeds up to 250 km/h. This allows Volvo to fine-tune the aerodynamics of their vehicles, which not only improves fuel efficiency but also enhances stability and control, key factors in preventing accidents.

In today’s world, safety is not just about crash protection but also about ensuring that the planet remains safe for future generations. Volvo’s use of sustainable materials in their vehicle construction is a testament to this forward-thinking approach. The World of Volvo building itself, constructed primarily from wood, is a symbol of this commitment to sustainability. This dedication to sustainability is not just about meeting environmental targets; it’s about redefining what it means to be a safe and responsible automaker in the 21st century. Volvo’s efforts in this area are particularly relevant to Malaysian consumers, who are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their vehicle choices.

One of the most memorable parts of the visit was witnessing a crash test in Volvo’s safety centre. The test involved simulating a high-speed collision with a stationary object, and it was a visceral reminder of the forces involved in a crash. Watching the car absorb the impact, protecting the occupants inside, was a powerful demonstration of the importance of the safety features that Volvo has pioneered. This experience was especially poignant for me as a Malaysian journalist. In Malaysia, road safety is a major concern, with high rates of traffic accidents and fatalities. Seeing firsthand the lengths to which Volvo goes to protect its occupants reinforced the importance of choosing vehicles that prioritize safety.

Volvo’s investment in R&D, particularly in battery safety and digital testing, ensures that their vehicles are well-suited to handle these challenges. Moreover, Volvo’s commitment to sustainability resonates with the growing environmental awareness in Malaysia. As our country continues to develop, the demand for vehicles that are not only safe but also an alternative source of energy such as the demand of EV will only increase. Volvo is well-positioned to meet this demand with their range of hybrid and electric vehicles, which offer the perfect blend of safety, performance, and sustainability.

Volvo’s legacy of innovation and safety is one that continues to evolve. As the automotive industry moves towards a more sustainable future, Volvo is leading the way with their commitment to developing vehicles that are safe and efficient. For Malaysian consumers, this means having access to vehicles that are not only cutting-edge but also designed with our unique driving conditions in mind. Volvo is a brand that truly understands the importance of safety, not just as a feature, but as a fundamental principle that guides everything they do. In the words of a Volvo engineer, “Every change we make, every new technology we develop, is about one thing: making sure our customers are safe. It’s who we are; it’s what we do.”

Every change we make, every new technology we develop, is about one thing: making sure our customers are safe. It’s who we are; it’s what we do.