Volvo hands drivers safety key
Volvo Cars has launched a new key designed to give owners peace of mind when entrusting their pride and joy to other users.
Available on the new Volvo S90 saloon, V90 estate and XC90 SUV, the Red Key activates functions on the vehicle to help ensure the car is driven responsibly when in the hands of valet parking staff, repair workshops or younger drivers.
When the car is driven with the Red Key, its top speed is reduced to 75mph, the Adaptive Cruise Control function is programmed to maintain the maximum distance to the car in front, and the maximum volume from the audio system is reduced. Meanwhile, use of the Red Key sees the permanent activation of a range of safety features, including BLIS (Blind Spot Information System), Lane Keeping Aid, Forward Collision Warning, Driver Alert Control, Distance Alert and Traffic Sign Recognition.
David Baddeley, operations director, Volvo Car UK, said, ‘Handing over your car to a third party often comes with a feeling of trepidation. For those who regularly entrust their car to others, Volvo’s Red Key gives owners the confidence that their vehicle is being driven responsibly, no matter whose hands it’s in.’
The recently launched Volvo S90, V90 and XC90 are the first stages in the transformation of Volvo’s product range. Their advanced technology includes the standard fitment of the firm’s semi-autonomous Pilot Assist feature, as well as the world-first introductions of Run-off Road Mitigation and Large Animal Detection. Meanwhile, the Volvo On Call app allows the driver to control a range of functions from a mobile device, including the ability to remotely heat or cool the cabin before they get in. The car can also be turned into a WiFi hotspot, while smartphone integration is available.
