With consumption and CO2 emissions figures as low as 4.4 litres/100 km and 115g/km, the new DRIVe Volvos are set to make an environmental impact when they go on sale in Europe by the end of 2008.

The DRIVe cars include C30, S40 and V50 models and are based on the Volvo C30 Efficiency Concept vehicle shown at last year's Frankfurt Motor Show.

The fuel economy and emission levels result from a range of technical approaches aimed at improving overall efficiency. These include measures focussed on maximising aerodynamics, lowering rolling resistance, optimising gear ratios and improving mechanical efficiency.

The 1.6D turbodiesel DRIVe engine employs various measures to maximise efficiency, including the optimisation of engine cooling, power steering and engine management, as well as new, low-friction transmission oil and a gear change indicator on the information display to advise the driver of the best time to make an up or downshift.

Aerodynamics plays an important role too. DRIVe models run a 10 mm lower overall height, a front spoiler and a radiator grille with a wind-deflecting panel that better manages the airflow within the engine compartment.

The DRIVe models also get wind deflectors ahead of the front wheels, special aero wheels, underbody panels for more efficient airflow beneath the vehicle and, for the C30, a unique rear spoiler and rear bumper. The S40 DRIVe's rear spoiler comes from T5 and D5 models.

The DRIVe Volvos also adopt a new set of economy-optimised gear ratios for third, forth and fifth gears and are equipped with new generation low rolling resistance Michelin tyres.

"Changing the transmission oil gives us a 0.75 per cent lower fuel consumption. Tyres with low rolling resistance save another two per cent. Each of these measures may seem rather modest, but it is important to look at the whole picture. Taken together, all the small adjustments have helped us achieve our aim, with emissions below 120 g/km for all three cars. Without in any way compromising on either driving properties or comfort," said Magnus Jonsson, Senior Vice President, Research & Development at Volvo Cars.

The DRIVe Volvos achieve fuel consumption reductions of 0.5 litres/100 km at cruising speed, bringing the highway figure to as low as 3.7 litres/100 km in the C30 model.

All new Volvo diesels are also fitted with a maintenance-free particle filter that traps approximately 95 per cent of all soot particles.

As well as lowering emissions and fuel consumption, the DRIVe Volvos will also allow owners to benefit from special concessions being allowed drivers of low-emission vehicles in a number of European countries.

The environmental performance of the Volvo DRIVe C30, S40 and V50 will enable owners to qualify for "green grant" subsidies, as well as lower road tax, registration tax exemption and other incentives being offered in 13 European markets. This being regardless of Europe's traditional opposition to subsidies.

"We wanted to demonstrate that low CO2 ratings are not solely the preserve of small diesel cars. By offering the Volvo V50 with emission levels below 120 grammes CO2 per kilometre, we are also making it possible for families and other customers who require extra space to make an active pro-environmental choice," said Volvo Cars President and CEO, Fredrik Arp.

DRIVe Volvos will be recognised by a DRIVe badge that indicates their environmental performance.