Volvo DRIVe Stop/Start

VOLVO C30, S40 AND V50 DRIVe 

To reduce CO2 emissions to 104 g/km across all three ranges, the new DRIVe versions have been equipped with two intelligent new features. 

1. The first is a Start/Stop function that enables the engine to switch off when the car is at a standstill, whilst also maintaining comfort settings such as the air conditioning. When the driver puts the gear lever into neutral and releases the clutch (at a standstill), the engine switches off; the next time the driver presses the clutch, the engine starts up again.

This technology reduces fuel consumption and thus CO2 emissions by 4-5% in mixed driving conditions. Start/Stop technology is particularly effective in urban traffic, when the saving can be as much as 8%. When the car is at a standstill and the engine is switched off, some electronic systems such as the air conditioning step down to standby level in order to save fuel.

However, Volvo's Start/Stop system continuously monitors the comfort level and automatically reactivates the air conditioning if, for instance, the temperature increases in the passenger compartment. The system does not reduce any limits for other comfort-focused features such as the sound system or other facilities that the occupants will want to maintain. This innovative monitoring system has been made possible due to an additional small battery which supports the larger battery by providing extra power. Thanks to this extra battery, Volvo's DRIVe models also feature particularly quick and smooth start-up. The audio system also remains unaffected when the starter motor is activated. This distinguishes Volvo Car's solution from other systems offered by the competition. The standard larger battery has also been upgraded to handle up to 175,000 Start/Stop cycles. 

Due to the location of this battery and the shape of the front bumper, it is not possible to have front fog lights on the S40 DRIVe variants. Front Fog Lights remain available on C30 and V50 due to different bumper designs. The driver continuously receives feedback about system status via the incar information display. The Start/Stop function can be engaged anddisengaged via a DRIVe button in the centre console and in the default setting, the function is activated. 

2. The second new feature in the C30, S40 and V50 DRIVe 1.6D with Start/Stop is a regenerative charge facility. This charges the battery as soon as the driver releases the accelerator or brakes while a gear is engaged. By harnessing the vehicle's kinetic energy, the alternator does not have to use diesel fuel as a power source to recharge the cars battery and fuel savings of between 2 and 3% have been achieved with this function. DRIVe Stop/Start variants are available on S, SE and SE Lux trim levels. 

VOLVO C30, S40 AND V50 R-DESIGN DRIVe 

By adding some of the DRIVe features onto the current 1.6D R-DESIGN, these derivatives are now homologated to just 119g/km CO2. The following DRIVe features have been added: 

− Electrohydraulic Steering
− Transmission Oil, creates lower friction
− Transmission Software, with longer gear ratios
− Front Deflectors− Engine Mount− Gearshift Indicator
− Lowered DRIVe Chassis 

This means that these variants will also carry the DRIVe badge to the rear of the car, and will continue to support the R-DESIGN badge on the front grill. The addition of DRIVe technology does not currently deliver a sub-110g/km CO2 igure, hence the non-availability of Stop/Start on R-Design variants.