Volvo History

LOOKING BACK HELPS US LOOK FORWARD

We're still building on our legendary heritage.

We started making cars in 1927 because we believed nobody else was making them strong enough or safe enough for Swedish roads. Along the way, we've come up with dozens of innovations, some of which have changed the world. And it's this commitment that drives us forward to the next great Volvo Cars idea.

THE CARS IN DETAIL

From the very first Volvo Cars ÖV4— nicknamed 'Jakob'—we've been using the best quality materials to create cars that are highly regarded not only for their durability but for their outstanding quality.

DECADES OF INNOVATION

Some of our innovations have literally changed the world—ever since Nils Bohlin introduced the three-point safety belt in 1959, an estimated one million lives have been saved. And our 'Lambda Sond,' which reduced harmful emissions by 90%, now graces nearly every car in the world.

PEOPLE FIRST

It's true that everything we do starts with people, and we're very proud of the great personalities that have made Volvo Cars what it is, from our 1927 founders Assar Gabrielsson and Gustaf Larson, through to designer Pelle Petterson, who designed the iconic P1800.

BUILT FOR MOTORSPORT

When enthusiasts discovered what tough cars Volvos are, they started to go rallying, and in 1965, a PV544 won the grueling Safari Rally. Following up that great win, a 122S Amazon took victory in the Acropolis Rally in the same year. And in 1994, Volvo Cars shocked the motorsport world by being the first ever manufacturer team to enter an estate racing car with the 850.

VOLVO'S SUPPORTING ROLES

Volvos play their part in some of the most legendary movie and television shows. Who can forget the fabulous white P1800 in The Saint, an iconic British television show? More recently, in the blockbuster drama Gone Girl and comedy The Other Woman, lead characters drive Volvos. Volvo also stars in every installment of The Twilight Saga parts 1-4. On the smaller screen, Volvo is a part of shows such as Modern Family, Pretty Little Liars and, one that hits closest to our home, Welcome to Sweden.