Volvo Cars is expanding its connected safety technology with four new real-time hazard alerts designed to warn drivers about large animals, vulnerable road users, roadwork and accidents ahead.
The new features will be available on the Volvo EX60, EX90 and ES90 in Europe, the United States and Canada, with availability timing varying by model. Volvo also plans to introduce the functions across its -40, -60 and -90 model ranges.
Volvo Expands Connected Safety Technology
Volvo first introduced its connected safety technology in 2016, allowing compatible vehicles to share information about hazards detected on the road.
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The system can already provide Slippery Road Alerts and Hazard Light Alerts. When a connected Volvo detects slippery conditions or activates its hazard lights, information can be shared with other connected vehicles traveling on the same road.
The latest software update adds four additional warnings.
Large Animal Alert can warn other drivers when a large animal is detected on or near the road ahead. Vulnerable Road User Alert provides warnings when pedestrians or cyclists are detected ahead or nearby, while Roadwork Alert can notify drivers when road construction is detected.
Accident Ahead Alert uses real-time information from connected Volvo vehicles and traffic management centers to warn drivers about accidents farther along the road.
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The alerts are designed to provide earlier warnings in situations where visibility may be limited, including winding roads and poor weather.
Connected Vehicles Share Road Hazard Data
The connected safety system requires the vehicle to have the feature activated and an internet connection to send or receive notifications.
The technology is more broadly integrated across different vehicle brands in Europe through the European Data for Road Safety ecosystem. In the United States and Canada, connected safety alerts are currently limited to specific Volvo vehicles.
Volvo said more than 1 million of its vehicles have activated connected safety technology. Data shared through the European ecosystem can also reach vehicles from other manufacturers and national traffic management centers.
“Built on decades of our real-world safety insight, these innovations represent another step towards our vision of zero collisions,” said Åsa Haglund, head of Volvo Cars Safety Centre. “Every time a Volvo car shares safety intelligence, it helps other drivers prepare earlier to avoid accidents and feel safer.”
Software Update Adds Spatial Audio
The latest software update also introduces Spatial Audio support through CarPlay on the Volvo EX90 and ES90, using Dolby Atmos technology.
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The feature is supported by the Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system, which includes 25 high-performance speakers. It is designed to create a multi-dimensional audio experience for music, live performances and podcasts.
The Bowers & Wilkins system is available as an option when ordering the EX60, EX90 and ES90.
New Features Support Software-Defined Vehicles
Volvo said the latest update demonstrates how software-defined vehicles can gain additional capabilities after they enter service.
S&P Global Mobility recently recognized Volvo Cars as the only legacy automaker to reach Level 5 capability in software-defined cars, according to the company.
The new connected safety functions will be available on the EX60, EX90 and ES90 in Europe, the United States and Canada, although the timing may differ depending on the vehicle model.