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Volvo is a Swedish company that produces cars, as well as equipment for the agricultural industry. This company is part of a holding company Geely Automobile, and its headquarters are located in Gothenburg. Volvo's history dates back to 1924, when Gustaf Larson and Assar Gabrielsson came up with the idea of ​​creating their own car production.

How it all began

The SKF company, which produces ball bearings, employed, along with everyone else, 2 people: Assar Gabrielsson and Gustaf Larson. They had similar ones.

While Gustav was looking for talented mechanics, Assar thoroughly studied economic situation. In 1925, Gabrielsson even went so far as to invest his own funds in financing the first series of 10 cars.

The SKF organization had some control over the production of Volvo. However, this did not stop Volvo from growing and developing.

The OV4 Jakob car model was released in 1927

Business concepts

We can say that the history of creation Volvo brand dates back to when Larson and Gabrielsson decided to start producing passenger vehicles. Their decision was based on the following business concepts:

• pay great attention to the quality of products;
• purchase materials and parts from other companies. Focus on assembly work and improving the design of machines;
• export products. A year after the organization of assembly line production, the sale of cars to other countries began;
• find reliable subcontractors. The young Volvo company wanted to provide itself with reliable support and gain support railway transport.

The founders of Volvo were aware that in the process of creating a car, in no case should you spare any effort or money, especially at the beginning of the journey. Otherwise, it will be much more difficult and more expensive to correct errors later.

The tandem of Larson and Gabrielsson was brilliant. They fully controlled both important areas of Volvo's activities - mechanical engineering and economics. Assar Gabrielsson was amazingly astute in business, and Gustaf Larson was a genius in mechanical engineering. This partnership became the key to the success of their joint business.

Why Volvo?

Since Volvo cars were initially assembled at a subsidiary of SKF, it was decided to give all manufactured vehicles, in contrast to bearings, the Volvo name in order to differentiate the areas of activity.

The history of the creation of the Volvo emblem

In addition to the name, the car must. In 1927, the idea of ​​how it should look was born, and not just one. On the nose of the cars there was a circle with an arrow, which at the same time symbolized the Roman god of war, Mars, and was a symbol of iron and masculinity.

However, such a badge had to be somehow secured to the radiator grille. The designers couldn't come up with anything better than installing it using a regular diagonal strip. They did not even imagine that such a strip would later become an integral part of the Volvo symbol.

In addition, a dark blue oval with the inscription Volvo Gothenburg Sweden was attached under the radiator cap. At the very beginning of the development of the Volvo company, there was no clear standard for the emblem. For quite a long period, designers experimented and modified the symbolism.

The modern emblem is a diagonal stripe with an emblem in the middle. The cars are also equipped with the Volvo logo. The font for it was finally determined in 1958.

Chronological history

To understand how successfully the development of Volvo brand production has been, let’s take a brief look at it in chronological order:

• 1924 - the idea of ​​creating a car production plant in Sweden emerged.
• 1927 - release of OV4 Jakob. A total of 300 vehicles were produced.
• 1937 - production of models PV51 and PV52, which are similar to each other. A total of 1,800 vehicles were produced.
• 1940s - modernization of products for military needs. Creation of PV Every year 3,000 cars roll off the assembly line.
• 1953 - the Volvo Duett family car was introduced to consumers.
• 1954 - the company began to provide guarantee period 5 years for your products. The first sports car was released.
• 1958 - the company enters new level, exports reach 100 thousand cars.
• 1959 - invention of the three-point seat belt.
• 1960–1966 - production of the safest cars Volvo 1800, Volvo P
• 1967 - release of a new type of child seat.
• 1974 - release Volvo models
• 1976–1982 - production of Volvo 343 and 760 models, which made the company famous throughout the world.
• 1985 - release of a front-wheel drive car - the 480 ES sports car.
• 1990–1991 - introduction of side impact protection on the Volvo 850 and release of the Volvo 960 model with a 240 hp 6-cylinder engine. With.
• 1995 - production of models that later became quite famous and popular - S 40 and V
• 1996 - release of Volvo C70.
• 1998 - the world saw a very comfortable and also one of the safest cars - S
• 1999 - Volvo is acquired by Ford. She still belongs to him at the moment.
• 2000 - release of models V 70 and S
• 2002 - start of mass production of the Volvo XC 90 SUV.
• 2003 - release of the all-wheel drive Volvo S
• 2004 - new products were produced - S40 and V
• 2005 - Yamaha released the first V engine for the new Volvo XC90
• 2007 - in the anniversary year for the company, the bright XC60 crossover was presented at the Motor Show in Detroit. He had a unique appearance.

It is important to note that the Volvo brand is famous not only for passenger cars. The history of trucks from this manufacturer also has serious progression. The first truck rolled off the assembly line back in 1928. Subsequently, Volvo trucks gained well-deserved popularity for their quality, reliability and excellent assembly. They compared favorably with competitors' models.

Current situation

The history of the Volvo brand, we hope, will continue for many more decades. Currently the company owns 9 assembly plants located in different countries.

As before, Volvo automakers pay great attention to the safety of their cars. Their motto is the words about the reliability of their products and their safety. That is why almost all models are equipped with dual-circuit brakes, which are connected in a triangular pattern; special seat belts; a special beam on the roof, which avoids deformation of the body during an accident; side impact protection system.

We can conclude that the Volvo brand continues its glorious development. The company plans to expand production and further improve already high-quality and safe cars.

Volvo is a Swedish car brand that produces sedans, station wagons, sports cars, coupes, and trucks. The headquarters of Volvo Car Corporation is located in Gothenburg. It is part of the Geely Automobile holding.

When creating cars, the brand's engineers take a particularly careful approach to the issue of safety. They have developed the largest number of innovative technologies in the field of passive and active safety compared to other brands.

When the company was created, it was part of the world's largest manufacturer of bearings, lubrication systems, seals and mechatronics, SKF. The word "Volvo" was the company's slogan. Translated from Latin, it means “torsion.”

Volvo was founded in 1927 in Gothenburg as a subsidiary of SKF. Assar Gabrielsson became its managing director, and Gustav Larson became its chief engineer. They immediately announced that the main principle when creating Volvo cars would be safety for all road users.

The first Volvo car left assembly line April 14, 1927. This was the ÖV 4 model, nicknamed "Jacob". The main chassis components were developed by Ian G. Smith, who worked for many years in the American automotive industry and borrowed many technical solutions from American cars.

Gustav Larson worked on the creation of a four-cylinder in-line 2-liter engine with side valves. The power unit developed 28 hp. at 2000 rpm. Maximum speed model was 90 km/h. Open body with five passenger seats was made of sheet steel and placed on a frame made of ash and birch. In the harsh climate of Sweden, the open version of the model was not successful. But the PV4 sedan was much more convenient and popular. Its body was a wooden frame, covered not with sheet steel, but with artificial leather. By folding the seats, it was possible to get two comfortable berths.

Volvo ÖV 4 (1927-1929)

In 1928, an extended version of the PV4, Special, was introduced, which was distinguished by a longer hood, a smoother dashboard line, narrower windshield pillars, and a rectangular rear window. In the same year, the first Volvo truck, Type 1, was released.

Since its inception, the company had plans to create a six-cylinder engine. In April 1929, the first model with a new engine, the PV651, was introduced. Under its hood there was a 3-liter power unit 55 hp The PV651 and PV652, which became its successor, were wider and longer than previously produced cars.

The six-cylinder engine models helped the company enter the taxi market it was aiming to reach. In the first year of sales alone, 1,383 copies were sold, and 27 of them were exported.

Reliable and safe cars really appealed to taxi companies. Demand prompted Volvo engineers to develop seven-seat models TR671 and TR672, which received an extended chassis. In 1935, they were replaced by the TR701-704 with a 3670 cc engine. cm and power 80-84 hp.

In 1933, the new PV653 (Standard) and PV654 (De Luxe) entered the market. They got it completely metal body, 17-inch wheels instead of 19-inch, updated dashboard with glove box. The cars differed from their predecessors in improved sound insulation: the engine was separated from the chassis by rubber cushions, and the wall between the passenger compartment and the engine compartment was covered with noise-absorbing material.

Volvo PV653 (1933-1937)

Then came the 654 De luxe model with a plush interior, two spare wheels and a canopy reverse. In 1935, the PV658 and PV659 models were released, which had a significant impact on the appearance of all cars produced after them. Their radiator had a slightly tilted position back, and the wheel hub covers took on an unusual shape. There were hydraulic brakes on all wheels.

In 1935 appears new model with a streamlined design similar to American cars. It was a Volvo PV36 Carioca, a comfortable, quiet sedan with independent front suspension with wishbones and springs, a strong steel body and high performance security. The cabin could accommodate six people: three in front and three in the back. The seats were spacious and comfortable. A total of 500 copies of the model were produced, plus one chassis, which Nordbergs Karosseri turned into a luxury convertible.

Volvo PV36 (1935-1938)

In 1936, the first generation of small Volvo models appeared - the PV51. It was equipped with the same 3.6-liter engine producing 86 hp as the PV36 Carioca, but it was simpler, more affordable and popular. The model was distinguished by a narrow body with an undivided windshield, the presence of only one windshield wiper and modest interior trim.

In the spring of 1939, the company began developing mechanisms to switch to gas produced from coal. These developments were more useful than ever, since there was a shortage of gasoline in Europe. After the outbreak of hostilities, the production of civilian cars froze. The company switched to the production of special military vehicles and gas-powered devices.

The first post-war car was the PV60 model. Fans of the brand also remember it as last car from the generation of huge Volvo passenger cars with a six-cylinder engine. Its appearance was already old-fashioned, but the PV60 still sold well. Whatever you say, this was the last representative of the “old school”, very reliable and comfortable.

In 1944, the PV444 was introduced, a car that became a landmark for the brand. It was the first Volvo model to feature compact dimensions And new design, repeating modern tendencies, demonstrated by American automakers. The car received a one-piece steel monocoque body without a frame and a new four-cylinder engine with a short flywheel and overhead camshaft. It developed a power of 40 hp. For the first time, a triplex windshield was installed on a car. Another significant advantage of the new model is low price, which amounted to SEK 4,800. The company's first car was sold for this amount in 1927.

The PV444 debuted at the Volvo show in Stockholm, where 2,300 purchase contracts were signed in 10 days. This is despite the fact that the company’s plans included producing only 8,000 copies of the model. In total, about 200,000 units were sold during the production of the car.

Volvo PV444 (1946-1958)

In 1954, Volvo produced automotive world a real sensation. It was the open sports two-seater Sport P 1900. No one expected this from a conservative and safety-focused automaker. The model was developed with an eye to export markets, since the company already had negative experience in selling convertibles to the Swedish public. However, this time the car sold successfully. Still would! In addition to its dashing appearance and sophisticated security system, it boasted a five-year warranty, which included the car company's obligation to pay for repairs costing more than 200 crowns. The insured event included an accident or accident on the road. Under the hood of the Sport P 1900 was a 1,414 cc inline-four engine. cm power 70 hp

In August 1966, Volvo introduced the 144 model, which until 1974 was the most popular in the company's history. This car was distinguished by a large glass area and a successful exterior design. It also benefits from many of Volvo's innovative safety features. This list included energy-absorbing areas at the front and rear of the body, a unique brake system, disc brakes on all wheels, a smooth interior without protruding parts and seat belts for the driver and front passenger.

In 1974, the manufacturer introduced a new generation of cars - the 240 and 260 series, created on the basis of the 140 series. They were distinguished from their predecessors by a different front end, a modernized chassis with MacPherson front wheel suspension, larger engines and new four-cylinder engines.

Volvo 240 (1974-1984)

In the mid-70s, Volvo bought the Dutch DAF Car BV, which allowed it to get accustomed to the small car segment. The first new product in this series was the Volvo 66, which was produced as a two-door sedan or three-door station wagon. It was equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive system.

In 1986, the Volvo 480ES rolled off the production line, the first production front wheel drive model brands. It received a design that was different from the company’s previous work, with retractable headlights.

In 1991, the company introduced the SIPS side impact protection system, and in 1994, it created the world's first airbags that protect against side impacts.

In 1999, the division responsible for the production of passenger cars was purchased by Ford Motor Company for $6.45 billion. The following year, Volvo's truck division and Renault entered into an agreement to create a single vehicle manufacturing facility, becoming Europe's largest truck manufacturer. In 2010, Ford sold Volvo Cars to India Geely company Automobile.

Acquaintance Russian buyers with Volvo took place back in the USSR, when since 1973, truck tractors of the brand were purchased for the needs of Sovtransavto. In 1989 they began official sales passenger cars and trucks in Soviet Union. Now the brand is represented on the Russian market by three companies: VFS Vostok LLC, Volvo Vostok CJSC, which are responsible for the sale of trucks, and Volvo Cars LLC, which promotes passenger models. Since 2009, Volvo FH, FM, FMX trucks have been assembled in Kaluga. Investments in the construction of the new plant cost 100 million euros. In 2014, the Volvo Group launched production of cabins at the plant full cycle, investing another 90 million euros.

Despite the division and different owners, the Volvo brand continues its glorious development as a manufacturer of quality and safe cars with a balanced character. The companies plan to expand production and further improve cars.

In Latin, Volvo means "I roll", the circle with arrows is just a convenient symbol of steel - the biggest industry in Sweden until the advent of iKEA. The circle and arrow symbolize the shield and spear of Mars, which are also alchemical symbols for iron.

In 1924, in the Stockholm restaurant Sturehof on July 25 - a day called Jacob's Day in the Swedish calendar - Assar Gabrielsson and Gustaf Larson decided to create Volvo.

Volvo's birthday is considered to be April 14, 1927 - the day when the first car called Jakob left the plant in Gothenburg. However real story The development of the concern began a few years later. The 20s are characterized by the beginning of the real development of the automotive industry simultaneously in the USA and Europe. In Sweden, people really became interested in cars in 1923 after an exhibition in Gothenburg. In the early 20s, 12 thousand cars were imported into the country. In 1925 their number reached 14.5 thousand. On the international market, manufacturers, in pursuit of increasing their volumes, were not always selective in their approach to components, so the quality of the final product often left much to be desired, and as a result, many of these manufacturers quickly went bankrupt. For the creators of Volvo, the issue of quality was fundamental. Therefore, their main task was to make right choice among suppliers. In addition, tests were required after assembly. To this day, Volvo follows this principle.

Let's find out the history of this brand in more detail...

1927 Volvo OV4 "The Jakob"

Creators of Volvo

Assar Gabrielsson and Gustaf Larson are the creators of Volvo. Assar Gabrielsson, son of Gabriel Gabrielsson, office manager, and Anna Larson, was born on 13 August 1891 in Kosberg, Skaraborg County. He graduated from the Norra Higher Latin School in Stockholm in 1909. He received a bachelor's degree in economics and business from the School of Economists in Stockholm in 1911. After working as an official and stenographer in the lower house of the Swedish Parliament, Gabrielsson received a position as sales manager at SKF in 1916. He founded Volvo and served as president until 1956.

Gustaf Larson - son of Lars Larson, farmer, and Hilda Magnesson - was born on July 8, 1887 in Vintros, Erebro County. In 1911 he graduated from technical primary school in Erebro; received his engineering degree from the Royal Institute of Technology in 1917. In England, from 1913 to 1916, he worked as a design engineer at White and Popper Ltd.

After graduating from the Royal Institute of Technology, Gustaf Larson worked for SKF as manager and chief engineer of the company's transmission department in Gothenburg and Katrinholm from 1917 to 1920. He worked as a plant manager and later as technical director and executive vice president of Nya AB Gaico with 1920 to 1926 Collaborated with Assar Gabrielsson to creation of Volvo. From 1926 to 1952 - technical director and executive vice president of Volvo.

Volvo's history began with crayfish

As the book "Volvo Cars" tells, the history of Volvo begins in June 1924, when Assar Gabrielson, the future managing director of the brand, accidentally met in a cafe with a former college classmate, Gustav Larson, who would later become Volvo's technical director. That day in a cafe they talked briefly, and Gabrielson proposed the idea of ​​​​creating a car production enterprise. Gustav Larson agreed that they should have discussed this topic in more detail, but he considered the proposal itself hardly serious and did not attach much importance to it. Perhaps this idea would not have developed if they had not met for the second time in August of the same year.

This is how Gustav Larson describes this meeting, remembering Assar Gabrielson (the article was published in Volvo magazine after Gabrielson's death in 1962): “I quite by chance passed by the Sture-hof restaurant. I saw an advertisement for fresh crayfish, and decided to go inside, where I saw Gabriel sitting alone in front of a whole mountain of red crayfish. I joined him, and we began to eat the crayfish with great appetite." So they sat at the same table. Gabrielson had an excellent opportunity to re-discuss his idea. The verbal agreement they reached in August 1924 took the form of a formalized document on December 16, 1925.

This document proclaimed the following: “I, Gabrielson, intending to create an enterprise for the production of automobiles in Sweden, make an offer to G. Larson to cooperate with me as an engineer.” "I, Larson, accept this offer." Gustav Larson was to design a new car. The remuneration for this work would range from SEK 5,000 to SEK 20,000, provided that production reached industrial levels of at least 100 cars per year by January 1, 1928. If the target production level was not achieved, Larson agreed not to claim any what payment? The chassis drawings of the new car were ready six months before the signing of this agreement.

On April 14, 1927, the first production car Volvo was the year the automobile industry was born in Sweden. That day the gates of the factory on the island of Hisingen, Gothenburg, opened. The first Volvo car rolled out of the gate. It was an open-top phaeton and four-cylinder engine. Sales manager Hilmer Johanson was behind the wheel.

When designing it, the designer Mass-Olle was guided by American methods. The car was equipped with a 1.9-liter 4-cylinder engine with side valves. Under the designation "OV-4" it was offered with open body, the "PV-4" variant was a sedan.

The short drive to the place where the press representatives were waiting for the car passed without incident. But the night before was not an easy one for those responsible for assembling the car. The last parts needed for assembly had arrived by train from Stockholm the previous evening. The haste that accompanied the assembly of the car made itself felt: when engineer Eric Carlberg decided to inspect and test the car in the morning, it turned out that it could only move backwards. Main component in the gearbox rear axle was installed incorrectly. This start was perceived as a good omen: from that moment on, the movement should only be in the forward direction.

The car was called simply and uncomplicatedly - ÖV4 and had the affectionate nickname Jacob (Jacob). The letters ÖV indicated that the model was an open-top car, and the number 4 indicated the number of engine cylinders. The Volvo Jacob was an American design, had a powerful chassis and independent suspension with long leaf springs front and rear. The engine developed a power of 28 hp. at 2000 rpm. The maximum speed of the car was quite decent for that time - 90 km/h.

At first, Swedish buyers were not eager to snap up new cars

The car's four-hole body was painted dark blue color, and against this background the black mudguards stood out. The open 5-seater Jacob body had four doors and was constructed from sheet steel on an ash and copper beech frame. The upholstery was made of leather, the front panel was made of wood. Unlike the seats in many other cars, the seats of the first Volvo were sprung. The wheel structure of this car was a removable rim, which was mounted on wooden spokes coated with varnish. Minor luxuries in the cabin included a small flower vase, an ashtray and (in the sedan version) curtains on all windows.

New car with a body, the phaeton cost 4,800 CZK, and a little later the PV4 sedan was introduced, and another 1,000 CZK was added to its price. According to plans, the plant should produce 500 cars of each model, however, contrary to expectations, Swedish buyers were not eager to buy up new cars. In the first year, only 297 cars were sold. One of the reasons for such a small number was the requirement for very high level quality of supplied components and strict control by the manufacturer.

The PV4's top speed was quite respectable at 90 km/h

A year later, a new model was introduced - this is the Volvo Special, an extended version of the PV4 sedan. The Volvo Special featured a longer hood, thin A-pillars and a rectangular rear window. This car was already equipped with bumpers. At this time, the bumpers had not yet become standard equipment car.

Only two years later the company was able to make its first modest profits. In 1929, Volvo sold 1,383 cars. However, at the end of the 1920s. the car made a real breakthrough both in the European and American markets.

During his several years at SKF, Assar Gabrielsson noted that Swedish ball bearings were inexpensive compared to prices international standard, and the idea of ​​creating a production of Swedish cars that could compete with American cars grew stronger and stronger. Assar Gabrielsson worked with Gustaf Larson for several years at SKF, and the two men, having also worked together for several years in the British automotive industry, learned to recognize and respect each other's experience and know-how.

Gustaf Larson also had plans to create his own Swedish automobile industry. Their similar views and goals led to cooperation after the first few chance meetings in 1924. As a result, they decided to found a Swedish car company. While Gustaf Larson was hiring young mechanics to assemble cars, Assar Gabrielsson was studying the economics of their idea. In the summer of 1925, Assar Gabrielsson was forced to use his own savings to finance a trial run of 10 passenger cars.

The cars were assembled at Galco's Stockholm plant with the involvement of the interests of SKF, whose capital share in Volvo was SEK 200,000. SKF also made Volvo a controlled, but capable of growth, automobile company.

All work was moved to Gothenburg and nearby Hisingen, and SKF equipment was eventually moved to Volvo's production site. Assar Gabrielsson identified 4 basic criteria that contributed to the successful development of the Swedish automobile company: Sweden was a developed industrial country; low wages in Sweden; Swedish steel had a solid reputation throughout the world; There was a clear need for passenger cars on Swedish roads.

Gabrielsson and Larson's decision to start producing passenger cars in Sweden was clearly formulated and was based on several business concepts:

— Production of Volvo passenger cars. Volvo will be responsible for both the design of the machines and the assembly work, and materials and components will be purchased from other companies;
— Strategically secure key subcontractors. Volvo must find reliable support and, if necessary, partners in the railway transport sector;
— Concentration on exports. Export sales began a year after the start of assembly line production;
— Attention to quality.

No effort or expense should be spared in the process of creating a car. It is cheaper to get production going in the right direction at the beginning of the journey than to allow mistakes and correct them at the end. This is one of the main postulates of Assar Gabrielsson. If Assar Gabrielsson was a shrewd businessman, then the brilliant financier and trader Gustaf Larson was a mechanical genius. Together, Gabrielsson and Larson controlled Volvo's two main areas of activity - economics and mechanical engineering. The two men's efforts were based on determination and discipline - two qualities that were often the key to business success in industry throughout the first half of the 20th century. This was their overall approach, which laid the foundation for Volvo's first and most important value: quality.

Volvo name

SKF acted as a serious guarantor for the production of the first thousand cars: 500 - from convertible and 500 - with hard. Since one of the main activities of SKF was the production of bearings, the name Volvo was proposed for the cars, which means “I roll” in Latin. Thus, 1927 became the year of Volvo's birth.

To characterize your child, a symbol was needed. They chose steel and Swedish heavy industry, ever since cars were made from Swedish steel. The "Iron Symbol" or "Mars Symbol", as it was called after the Roman god of war, was placed in the center of the radiator grille on the first Volvo passenger car and later on all Volvo trucks. The “Sign of Mars” was tightly attached to the radiator the simplest method: The steel rim was attached diagonally across the radiator grille. As a result, the diagonal stripe has become a trusted and well-known symbol of Volvo and its products, in fact one of the strongest brands in the automotive industry.

When the Volvo P1800 sports car turned 50 years old, the Swedish automaker decided to “modernize” the car. True, only on paper - launch in mass production a modernized version of the model, drawn by Volvo chief designer Christopher Benjamin, is not being assembled yet.

At the same time, some experts note that such a car could well find its buyer. The key to commercial success would be the glory of the original P1800 sports car, which was considered the most attractive Volvo in the entire history of the Swedish brand. The exterior of the Volvo P1800 coupe was created in 1957 by designer Pelle Pettersson, who at that time worked at the Italian atelier Pietro Frua. At first, the Swedes were going to launch production of this model at the German enterprise Karmann, owned Volkswagen concern, however, disagreements that arose during the negotiations led to the need to find another partner. As a result, serial production The car was launched only in 1961, while cars were assembled in the UK, at the Jensen plant.

The first Volvo P1800s were equipped gasoline engine power 100 Horse power, however, in 1966 it was replaced by a 115-horsepower unit. In addition to the coupe, the car could be ordered in convertible and station wagon body styles. The total circulation of P1800 over 13 years was 37.5 thousand copies.

In parallel, Volvo begins to produce its first trucks, which were based on the same “Jacob”.

So, starting from the 30s of the 20th century, Volvo has been presenting more and more new introductions to mechanical engineering. A new six-cylinder engine was invented, tested and put into production, brake pads installed on all 4 wheels, the interior is soundproofed, a muffler is installed, a radiator grille appears - and after all these innovations the car’s power does not drop at all! It's no surprise that the company is weathering the global economic crisis. Before World War II, Volvo pleased its customers with an aerodynamic body.

The 40s passed under the sign of the World War. But Volvo is not losing ground, on the contrary, it is staying afloat and inventing new innovations. Having survived the war and finished producing modifications of cars for military needs, Volvo returned to producing civilian cars. The PV444 model, after all modifications, is conquering the market. The company is increasing production and, consequently, export of cars.

In the 50s, Volvo placed great emphasis on safety. Brakes and seat belts are being improved. A special committee is being created to study various accidents.

In the 60s - 70s. the company enters into agreements with DAF and Renault, which increases the performance and power of vehicles. New modifications and models are being released - Amazone, models 240 and 345. In the 80s, car production per year reaches the 400,000 mark! Let's not forget that the company remains committed to safety, as evidenced by numerous awards for its seat belt modification - the world's first three-point belt, which improves safety by 50%.

The 90s again brought success to the company. Relations have been established with the French company Renault in the production of cars, trucks and buses; a profitable agreement was signed with Mitsubishi and the Dutch government to create a new brand. But the main fact of this decade is the release of the 960 model, which was equipped with an automatic transmission. The new car was modified with the help of Japanese colleagues from Mitsubishi - a nice design appeared.

At the moment, the Volvo brand is a safety brand. Such popular models as S40, S60, S80, V70, XC70, XC90 drive on the streets. Cars are chosen for comfort, safety and reliability. Every year the brand pleases with new products and innovations, both in the field of safety and reliability of car robots. And, in addition, Volvo produces reliable engines for boats and ships.

Now let's look at the history of Volvo in chronological order:

1924 - the idea of ​​​​creating the first machine-building plant in Sweden.

1927 - after three years of preparation, the first Volvo car, the OV4 “Jakob,” is released into the world; 300 cars are assembled.

1937 - release of new similar models - PV51 and PV52, 1800 cars were produced.

1940s - modernization of cars for military needs, then a workers' strike, shortage of materials. Design and assembly of PV444, an average of 3,000 cars are produced per year.

1953 - release of a new family car - Volvo Duett.

1954 - an unprecedented step by the company - a car warranty was issued for as much as 5 years! The first Volvo sports car is produced, which never became fashionable.

1956 - the Amazon brand was released.

1958 - export of Volvo cars reaches 100 thousand.

1959 - an event occurred that later allowed Volvo to be considered the most safe car- The three-point seat belt was invented.

1960-1966 — new Volvo 1800 and Volvo P 144 cars were presented, which were rightfully considered the safest cars in the world.

1967 - the child seat was modernized, now it can be installed in the opposite direction.

1974 - the Volvo 240 model was released, which included all types of safety that existed at that time.

1976-1982 — the company produces Volvo 343 and Volvo 760, which conquer the market, Volvo is famous throughout the world.

1985 - the first car with front-wheel drive appears - the Volvo 480 ES sports car.

1990-1991 - developed and installed on Volvo car 850 side impact protection. The production of the Volvo 960 model was launched, which had a 6-cylinder engine and a power of 240 hp.

1995 - release of the famous Volvo S40 and V40 cars.

1996 - now Volvo pleases its consumers with the beautiful Volvo C70.

1998 - release of the Volvo S80 not only comfortable car, but also one of the safest cars in the world, thanks to protection against whiplash.

1999 - Volvo buys Ford, which still owns it to this day.

2002 - A year of big changes in Volvo products. The first SUV XC90 was announced, the s40 and s80 models were restyled. Volvo has already stepped firmly into the super-performance car market with the S60R and V70R. The company's design studio has been developing its own SUV for some time. All presenters European manufacturers, even Posrsche, have prepared or started producing their own parquet “jeeps”. And finally, in August 2002, mass production of the XC90 model began.

2003 - At the Geneva Motor Show, Volvo demonstrated its next concept car from the “Volvo designers’ vision of the cars of the future” series. Concept car VCC (Versability Concept Car - “Adaptable Concept Car”).
The lineup of the Swedish company Volvo has been expanded with another four-wheel drive vehicle- following the Volvo S60 and V70, the company’s flagship also received all-wheel drive, Volvo sedan S80. This car uses a system similar to that used in the Volvo S60.

2004 - The appearance of the long-awaited new products of the Swedish company: Volvo S40 and Volvo V50. The new Volvo S40 is 50mm shorter than its predecessor, but despite this, Volvo offers the features and qualities of large models Volvo.

2005 - Japanese company Yamaha has released the first engine for the new Volvo XC90 V8.

2007 - Volvo began its anniversary year with the Detroit Motor Show, where it presented the new conceptual XC60. Looking back and looking at the characteristics of the cars the company has produced over the past decades, the new car is hardly recognizable as a Volvo. Conceptual model The XC60 is a striking crossover. The car's design incorporates unusual solutions that give the XC60 a unique appearance. In the same year, Volvo launches new versions of its leading models - the V70 and XC70, which debuted at the Geneva Motor Show.

Well, about modern models You all probably know from advertising articles in the media.

sources
http://www.tneo.ru
http://www.swedmobil.ru
http://avtomarket.ru
http://volvo.infocar.com.ua
http://www.volvoclub.ru

The Volvo company originated in 1915 in the Swiss city of Gothenburg, as a subsidiary of SKF, which produced bearings. It was founded by former college classmates Assar Gabrielson, an SKF employee and Gustav Larson. Idea to do automobile business I came to the young engineers in a restaurant for beer and crayfish. After some time, SKF management approved their idea and allocated funds for the development and production of the first cars.

The name Volvo is derived from the Latin verb volvete, which means “I roll.” The Volvo emblem is a symbol of iron and the god of war, Mars, who fought exclusively with iron weapons. The associations that this emblem is supposed to give rise to are reliability and durability.

In 1927, the first Volvo car appeared - an open-top phaeton with a four-cylinder engine. It was called OV4, and also had an unofficial name - Jacob. It was not just the first Volvo car - but the first car made in Sweden. The Volvo Jacob had a strong beech and ash chassis and sprung seats, a rarity for cars of the 1930s. Engine power 28 hp. could accelerate the car to 90 km/h.

In 1928, Volvo released its first sedan, the PV4, and two years later, its modification, the PV651, with a six-cylinder engine producing 55 hp. With. This model was used as a taxi in Sweden. In the same year, the first Volvo truck, Type 1, rolled off the assembly line.

On car showroom in Stockholm, Volvo introduced the PV444 in 1944. This passenger model became " people's car» in Sweden, which was due to high quality at low cost. Initially it was planned to assemble 8,000 cars, however, due to high demand Volvo produced 200,000 cars. At the same exhibition, the company's first bus, the PV60, with a diesel engine, was presented.

In 1951, Volvo switched to assembly line production. In the same year, the first family car, the Volvo Duete, was released.

In the 80s, the company began producing new generation cars. They featured a modern design and more powerful engines, which have been modified to reduce fuel consumption. The main model of the 80s was the 760 sedan, which was equipped with six-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines. It accelerated to 100 km/h in 13 seconds.

Today Volvo belongs Chinese concern Geely, which bought it from Ford in 2010 for $1.8 billion. However, Volvo's headquarters remained in Gothenburg.

TechnologiesVolvo

Throughout its history, Volvo has paid particular attention to the development of safety technologies.

This Swedish manufacturer was the first to equip its cars with three-point seat belts, triplex laminated windshields and lambda probes - sensors that help reduce exhaust emissions.

In the 1970s, Volvo developed the world's first child protection system - a booster cushion and a special child seat, which was installed against the movement of the car.

Much earlier than other companies, Volvo began to use its own innovative solutions for safety – for example, or the City Safety system, which prevents collisions at low speeds.

Volvoin motorsport

Since 2007, the team has been taking part in the World Touring Car Racing Championship. The best achievement is 11th place in the overall standings in 2011.

From time to time, Volvo exhibits its cars at the famous rally – the Dakar marathon. In 1983, the team won the small truck class.

In addition, the Volvo concern participates in the European Truck Racing Championship. Cars under the Renault brand, which are produced at Volvo factories, won in 2010 and 2011.

Interesting Facts

Volvo is the first company in the world to create its own dedicated accident investigation team. Based on the data from this division, new security systems are being developed for Swedish cars.

The Volvo P1800, assembled in 1966, was included in the Guinness Book of Records as the car with the most high mileage. It amounted to 4,200,000 km.

King Carl Gustaf of Sweden travels on the roads in a small hatchback.

Volvoin Russia

The history of Volvo in Russia began in 1973, when the state company Sovtransavto purchased Swedish trucks for international transport. A representative office of the brand opened in Russia in 1994. The V40 KOMBI models were especially popular in the 90s. In the 2000s, the most popular models in Russia were S-series sedans. Swedish cars have become popular among Russian car enthusiasts due to their classic design, high quality and reliability. These factors even influenced the formation of such a concept among car enthusiasts as Volvo - a driver. This was the name given to a motorist who is not in a hurry, follows traffic rules, and values ​​comfort and safety.

The machines were well suited for operation in difficult weather conditions of the country. In addition, their success was ensured by their low cost in comparison with cars of competing brands.

Today on Russian market a large selection of Volvo cars is presented: C70 coupe with rigid convertible roof, sedans and station wagons V60 and V80, as well as all-wheel drive crossovers XC60, XC70 and . Over the past six years, Russians have been buying about 20,000 Swedish cars a year. Most popular model is the XC90. Sales of this crossover account for about 30% of all models presented today.

In Zelenograd the company has a small truck assembly plant. In addition, in 2009, a Volvo Trucks plant was opened in the Kaluga region, which produces up to fifteen thousand trucks per year. Volvo has no plans to open passenger car factories in Russia yet.