Volvo has announced a new update for its higher-end electric models, bringing real-time safety alerts and more.
Building on Volvo’s connected car technology, first launched in 2016, the free over-the-air (OTA) update will enable hazard warnings using data shared by other vehicles.
More than one million Volvo models have active connected car capabilities, creating the potential for safety warnings to be shared collectively.
Using the European Data for Road Safety ecosystem, the alert can also be passed beyond just Volvo models.
Cars from other brands and national traffic management centres will be able to benefit from the warnings, too.
Four new safety warnings added
The latest Volvo software update introduces four specific safety warnings, including a ‘Large Animal Alert’ that – as its name suggests – can tell other drivers if a big animal such as a deer is detected on or near the road ahead.
Volvo’s ‘Vulnerable Road User Alert’ flags if pedestrians and cyclists are spotted ahead, with ‘Roadwork Alert’ and ‘Accident Ahead Alert’ also ensuring drivers are forewarned of hazards on their route.
These four new functions add to the existing Slippery Road Alert and Hazard Light Alert incorporated into Volvo’s operating system.
“Built on decades of our real-world safety insight, these innovations represent another step towards our vision of zero collisions,” said Asa Haglund, head of Volvo Cars Safety Centre.
“Every time a Volvo car shares safety intelligence, it helps other drivers prepare earlier to avoid accidents and feel safer.”
Spatial Audio technology included
The new connected car safety technology will be rolled out to Volvo EX60, EX90, and ES90 models across Europe, the United States and Canada.
Along with the new warning alerts, the latest software update can bring Spatial Audio support when drivers use Apple CarPlay.
This will be available to the Volvo EX90 and ES90 models equipped with the 25-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system, which incorporates Dolby Atmos technology.
It marks the latest OTA update by Volvo to improve the audio experience inside its vehicles.
Last year, an Abbey Road setting for the Bowers & Wilkins system was added, emulating the sound of listening to music in the famous London recording studio.
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