28 September 2001: The work Volvo has done with a V70-based Performance Concept Car will help them to choose the right path for a real high-performance estate model in the future. The Volvo Performance Concept Car 2 made its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show earlier this month.

Like its first Performance Concept Car (based on an S60), PCC2 has a 300 bhp, 2.4-litre turbo engine producing 400 Nm of torque, with a 6-speed gearbox, electronically controlled four-wheel drive, 19in wheels and one of the world’s most advanced continuously adjustable chassis - all wrapped in a sharp and distinctive Laser Blue and Satin Silver livery.

Its advanced Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept (FOUR-C) system offers three modes (Comfort, Sport or Advanced Sport) for enthusiastic and sporty driving on demand in a car that can be equally at home driving to the supermarket.

Other sporty features include the 19in BBS magnesium wheels shod with 245/35-19 tyres, straight from the British Touring Car Championship Volvos; while the front spoiler is designed with an additional stability-enhancing aerofoil running from its lower lip along the side of the car and up to the rear spoiler.

Volvo’s FOUR-C system aids driver control and safety by monitoring the precise position of each wheel 500 times per second to optimise the car’s handling and suspension by constantly adapting the suspension’s settings and damping characteristics.

Volvo’s Multiplex processor system, together with the electronically controlled all-wheel drive, helps the FOUR-C system to foresee events before they actually occur. For instance, if the driver brakes firmly, the system will inform the dampers a few milliseconds before the brake pads actually contact the discs and calculate how much the car will pitch and instantly reset the damping action.

“We’re not using four-wheel drive for enhanced off-road ability in this application, but optimising it for superb roadholding and dependable stability,” says Hans Nilsson, project manager of the Volvo Performance Concept Car. TW