Volvo Shows Off Upscale Sedan Concept in Shanghai

Volvo Car says its new Concept Universe concept unveiled today at the Shanghai auto show provides a peek at what can be expected from its next top-of-the-line sedan.

“Just like fine luxury goods, this design feels handcrafted and durable enough to stand the test of time,” says Peter Horbury, vice president-design. “We will compete with the best with our special kind of Scandinavian Design. It is unmatched in performance and technology, but without superficiality or complication.”

The Concept Universe is not a drivable prototype, so there’s no hint of what powertrains Volvo may be planning in its next-gen flagship, and the auto maker doesn’t hint at when such a vehicle can be expected on the market.

Volvo describes the interior as a “comfortable, cultivated environment” that is driver-oriented in the front and “comfortably relaxed” in the rear.

Intuitive controls and a touch-screen “that approaches the hand when the driver reaches towards it” are among signature features.

“Our aim is to be the brand that best understands what buyers of modern luxury cars want. We are eager to hear what the most demanding Chinese customers think of this luxurious concept,” Volvo President and CEO Stefan Jacoby says in a statement. “Later, we will show the design in Europe and the United States in order to bring it into the global context that we are aiming for with all our car models.”