Volvo continues to move forward with its Vision 2020, which aims for no one to be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo by 2020. Part of that plan now includes limiting the top speed of all of its models to 112 mph, starting in 2020.
Volvo has announced that starting with its 2021 models, all of them will have a top speed that is limited to 112 mph. Volvo sees speeding as one of the main hurdles for its goal to completely end serious injuries and fatalities in its cars.
“Volvo is a leader in safety: we always have been and we always will be,” said Håkan Samuelsson, president and chief executive, Volvo Car Group. “Because of our research we know where the problem areas are when it comes to ending serious injuries and fatalities in our cars. And while a speed limitation is not a cure-all, it’s worth doing if we can even save one life.”
In addition to limiting the top speed of its models, Volvo is also researching how a combination of smart speed control and geofencing technology could automatically limit speeds around schools and hospitals in future.
“We want to start a conversation about whether car makers have the right or maybe even an obligation to install technology in cars that changes their driver´s behaviour, to tackle things like speeding, intoxication or distraction,” said Mr. Samuelsson. “We don’t have a firm answer to this question, but believe we should take leadership in the discussion and be a pioneer.”
Volvo is also looking at ways to alleviate distraction and prevent drivers from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It plans to present some its ideas to prevent distraction and intoxication on March 20.
