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Volvo Announces Plans to Import Successful S40 and V40 Models

18 February 1998

Volvo Announces Plans to Import Successful S40 and V40 Models

    ROCKLEIGH, N.J., Feb. 18 -- Volvo Car Corporation
of Gothenburg, Sweden announced plans to expand their North
American product range with the addition of front-wheel-drive S40 sedans and
V40 sportswagons.  Currently on sale in Europe, the sleek, small platform cars
are part of Volvo's plan to attract younger, family oriented consumers who
desire Volvo's core values in a distinctive, sophisticated and fun-to-drive
automobile.
    With 1997 worldwide sales of 114,100 vehicles, the popular and successful
entry level Volvos are slated to play an expansion role in North America.
    According to Helge Alten, President and Chief Executive Officer of Volvo
Cars of North America, the Swedish automaker's New Jersey based importer,
"Volvo is broadening its product offering to reach a wider target audience.
We will, of course, continue our strong focus on our traditional family
segment and on Volvo's well-respected product virtues.  These cars provide us
with the opportunity to tap into the pre-family segment.  Our retailers and I
are enthusiastic about this development and thank the Volvo Board for this
commitment and investment in the North American market."
    U.S. variants will have a 100.4-inch wheelbase and incorporate a 1.9
liter, in-line, four-cylinder light pressure turbocharged engine generating
160 hp @ 5100 rpm with 170 foot pounds of torque.  The vehicles will be
manufactured at Volvo's NedCar assembly plant in Born, The Netherlands.
    U.S. introduction is targeted for mid-1999 as 2000 model year vehicles.
Canadian introduction is scheduled for the following year.

SOURCE  Volvo Car Corporation