Volvo Concept Estate Revealed, To Debut At Geneva Motor Show

Volvo Concept Estate, like the previous two concepts, serves the purpose of previewing the automaker's next-gen design philosophy, which along with the SPA platform, will make its debut with the XC90 SUV towards the end of this year.

The Concept Estate looks like a modern iteration of the Volvo 1800ES shooting brake from the 70s.

Most design elements, particularly at the front are similar to the 2013 Concept Coupe, but the most mesmerising part of the design is the full length transparent glass roof.

A few other design elements that require mention is the elongated body, "floating grille", T shaped headlamps, the inverted sickle shaped taillamp, extending all the way up the rear pillars and a low roof.

While the exterior of the Concept Estate is stunning, the interior one ups the ante, with its tweed like fabric upholstery and minimalistic all digital equipments.

The interior, Volvo says, is inspired by a well lit, sunny Scandinavian living room. The interior features orange seat belts & woolen carpets and has parts and bits made from natural wood, leather and metal.

The centerpiece of the cabin is the tablet like center console. Physical buttons have been kept to the minimum and are said to preview the future of all Volvo production models.

"The basic idea is to organise controls and information in a perfectly intuitive and user--‐ friendly way. Everything is exactly where you expect it to be, making the drive more enjoyable, efficient, and safe," says Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President Design from Volvo Car Group.

"Not having to deal with buttons and controls for a growing number of functionalities is like being freed from a pair of handcuffs," stated Robin Page, Design Director Interior of Volvo Car Group.

"This goes far beyond just putting a large tablet in the centre of the dashboard," explains Ingenlath. "We have created a digital environment that is fully integrated in the car. Information, navigation and media are high up and easy to keep an eye on. The phone controls, application icons and climate controls are located low, comfortable to reach and touch. Using the screen is so logical that it will be part of your muscle memory very quickly."

Volvo Concept Estate is just that. A design study that will never see the light of the day, which is a shame.

However, what we have seen in this concept and the two other before this will make it to other production Volvo models and we'll be happy enough if they look half this beautiful.