DESPITE THE PANDEMIC, VOLVO’S SALES ARE SURGING - AUTOLINE THIS WEEK 2426

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Volvo Car USA's President and CEO, Anders Gustafsson, discusses the brand's surprising sales surge amidst the pandemic, attributing it to a strong dealer network, digitalization investments, and effective marketing. Gustafsson highlights the accelerated need for future technologies, particularly electrification and advanced safety features, driven by changing consumer behavior. He also touches upon Volvo's simplified product offerings, the strategic importance of SUVs, and the phased global launch of the XC40 electric vehicle, emphasizing a demand-driven, zip-code-specific approach for the US market. The conversation also covers the ongoing development of Polestar and the subscription service 'Care by Volvo,' acknowledging initial implementation challenges but expressing confidence in its long-term benefits. While acknowledging the popularity of lifestyle vehicles and wagons, Gustafsson reaffirms Volvo's focus on profitable SUV segments and the strategic role of sedans like the S60 and S90 as entry points for brand loyalty.