It's official! The iconic Volvo C30 is officially recognized as a 'head-turner' when it received the Good Design award at the New Straits Times/Maybank Car of the Year 2008 (COTY) ceremony held on Thursday night, 28 November.
The panel of judges of the COTY awarded the Volvo C30 "… for leaving a lasting impression and emotional attachment while having all the sophistication without the complication to the end user," said the judging panel.
The rationale highlights the philosophy and principle behind the compact car’s stunning exterior as well as interior design.
"Form and functionality are very important aspects to Volvo’s design language," said Mr. Robert Norrman, President of Volvo Car Malaysia. "It is important that Volvo cars don't only look good, but functional too. Everything must have its place, design and purpose.
"Clearly, the rationale by the judges explains how important it is for a car to be able to hold someone's attention … and at the same time showing sophistication in a stylish yet simple way, so as to create an emotional attachment to the viewer."
Last year, Volvo Car Malaysia (VCM) received the COTY's inaugural Safety Innovation award for its All-New Volvo S80 sedan.
The Safety Innovation award was given as a result of: "…excellence in effort, design, construction or engineering within the industry and environment which represents a significant landmark and a major contribution towards road and vehicular safety," according to the judging panel last year.
Both these awards effectively represents that Volvo’s key traits – of safety and its unique Scandinavian design – is formally recognized within the industry for its excellence.
"I am very, very pleased that we have won both the safety award last year and the good design this year. I am very proud to receive this," said Norrman.
"There is a great sense of satisfaction among the Volvo team that our core traits have been recognized by the media. This year’s award obviously means that in terms of design, Volvo is heading in the right direction and that people appreciate it."