At Volvo Cars Dublin, we’re proud to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Volvo in the United States. Volvo was famously founded in Sweden in 1927. In 1955, Volvo made its official debut on U.S. shores bringing Swedish design and forward-thinking engineering to the states. As we commemorate 70 years of Volvo in the U.S., we want to reflect on what makes this milestone so meaningful not just for the company, but for the many loyal Volvo drivers across the country.
The first Volvo model to roll down American roads was the PV444 – a robust, compact car that gained a following for its reliability, comfortable interior, and advanced safety design. Volvo’s emphasis on safety would become a hallmark of its reputation in the U.S., setting the tone for decades of pioneering automotive excellence. Perhaps the most famous of these is the three-point safety belt which was introduced in 1959. A version of this innovation appears in all modern vehicles. Volvo waived the rights to this seat belt so that other auto manufacturers could use it in their cars, putting people before profits. The commitment to passenger and driver well-being still shapes every Volvo vehicle in stock at Volvo Cars Dublin.
Over the years, Volvo’s presence grew throughout the U.S., attracting loyal followers who valued the brand’s understated aesthetics, smart engineering, and above all, Volvo’s commitment to safety. These aspects made Volvo vehicles ideal for everything from daily school carpools to cross-country adventures—activities that demanded safety, comfort, and durability. In the mid-1970s, the Volvo 240 series was instantly beloved, becoming a staple on American roads. Known for its reliability and advanced safety features, the 240 series is considered a classic today.
Fast-forward to the present: Volvo’s U.S. lineup maintains the core values upon which the Volvo legacy was built. These include vehicles like the stalwart XC90 and S90, to forward thinking EVs like the C40 and XC40 Recharge, as well as Volvo’s latest models, the EX30 and EX90 SUVs. As always modern Scandinavian design and high-tech amenities are showcased. And much like Volvo’s approach in 1955, every modern Volvo still places a premium on occupant protection, with modern technological advancements. Advanced driver-assist technologies like collision mitigation, lane-keeping aids, and adaptive cruise control making today’s Volvo Cars and SUVs some of the safest on the road today.
Additionally, Volvo has gone beyond its foundational focus on safety for each car to protecting the entire planet. Volvo vehicles are now available in mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric configurations. These options embody the company’s forward-thinking principles.
At Volvo Cars Dublin, we are delighted to see Volvo’s enduring relationships with American drivers. Many families have grown up riding in Volvos, fostering a sense of trust that spans multiple generations. We strive to uphold that legacy of quality and personalized care and are proud to be part of the Volvo family. Whether you’re in Hayward, San Ramon, Modesto, or anywhere near, we invite you to join us in celebrating 70 years of Volvo in the United States. Stop by Volvo Cars Dublin.