Volvo continues to be a leader in vehicle safety. Every new Volvo now has a top speed of 112 MPH (180 KPH). Each also includes a Care Key, for even more top speed control. These are the latest Volvo safety initiatives that go beyond regulations and legislation in the company’s quest towards “zero serious injuries and fatalities in traffic.”
Would you buy a vehicle with a limited top speed?
Volvo Speed Limit
You read that right, the new Volvo top speed is 112 MPH. This applies to every new Volvo vehicle. The nannies on new vehicles, designed to keep us safe, continue to increase. This latest move by Volvo is designed to reduce accidents “by supporting better driver behaviour.”
“We believe that a carmaker has a responsibility to help improve traffic safety,” said Malin Ekholm, head of the Volvo Cars Safety Centre. “Our speed-limiting technology, and the dialogue that it initiated, fits that thinking. The speed cap and Care Key help people reflect and realize that speeding is dangerous, while also providing extra peace of mind and supporting better driver behaviour.”
No doubt this will be a controversial move amongst driving enthusiasts. With that said, is there ever a good reason to go over 112 MPH on a public road? Modern Volvo cars aren’t designed for the track, but instead to get you, your family, and/or your friends to their next destination in Scandinavian luxury and safety.
Volvo’s case for this limited top speed is; “The problem with speeding is that above certain speeds, in-car safety technology and smart infrastructure design are no longer enough to avoid severe injuries and fatalities in the event of an accident.”
Volvo Care Key
An optional feature on modern Volvo cars is now standard equipment, the Volvo Care Key. This special key comes with the car and allows vehicle owners to set additional limits to vehicle speed. The main purpose of this key is to set safer limits for young and/or inexperienced drivers.
“We believe that a carmaker has a responsibility to help improve traffic safety,” said Mr. Samuelsson. “Our recently announced speed limit fits that thinking and the Care Key is another example. Many want to be able to share their car with friends and family, but are unsure about how to make sure they are safe on the road. The Care Key provides one good solution and extra peace of mind.”
A side benefit in the long run of the Volvo Care Key might be lower insurance premiums. Volvo is talking to major insurance companies about lowering premiums for new drivers that use the Volvo Care Key.