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Volvo invests in a new wind tunnel

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Khatir Soltani
Volvo has invested 20 million euros to improve the fuel-efficiency of its vehicles and reduce their environmental footprint. The Swedish manufacturer has replaced its aging, 22-year-old wind tunnel with a new one that simulates the air flow over and under the vehicle and uses metal belts that allow the wheels to turn as if they were actually on the road. In fact, it's the most advanced wind tunnel in the entire automobile industry.


With it, Volvo redesigned its new C30. By reducing the wind resistance on the body of its compact car by 10%, Volvo managed to reduce CO2 emissions by 3 grams per kilometre. Translated into fuel consumption, this means that the C30 consumes 0.3 L/100 km less than the old model, nearly a full tank for someone who drives 15,000 km a year.

This remarkable testing facility is 8.15 metres in diameter and features nine vanes; it's powered by a 6,800 hp engine and can produce winds up to 250 km/h.
photo:Volvo
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada