First Peek at Volvo S60 Concept for 2009 Detroit Auto Show

It isn't much, but this is our first peek at the Volvo S60 Concept Car, which will debut at the 2009 Detroit auto show.

Though the concept is reportedly indicative of the next-generation S60 sedan, Volvo's only showing us a photo of the concept's center console. The floating center stack section isn't surprising (it's used throughout much of Volvo's current line-up), but designers added an interesting touch: it's fabricated entirely of crystal.

"If you want to explore the full scope of Scandinavian design," said Steve Mattin, director of design at Volvo Cars, "Sweden's glassworks are a natural source of inspiration. Large glass areas are very much part of modern Swedish architecture, creating the special, light transparency."

As such, Volvo's teamed with Swedish glassware manufacturer Orrefors to craft the concept's center console. The task hasn't been easy - it is, after all, a large piece of glass, and it's also Orrefors' first attempt at precision glass casting (normally, its molds are hand-crafted).

While designers like the creative versatility allowed by a crystal console (we hear some LED piping will be installed), there's little chance of such a piece entering volume production. Still, the remainder of the S60 concept should be (relatively) ready for production. Should Volvo issue no further teasers of the sedan, look for its first public viewing at the Detroit show come January.

Posted in: Volvo