The multi-filter was designed especially for the SPA platform on which the all-new XC90 is built. "It features a larger design that intercepts more particulates and pollen, as well as layer of active charcoal that effectively removes a host of contaminants that can impact the health of drivers," says the company. Just so you know, the car is likely to make its Indian debut early next year. The current-gen XC90 retails at about Rs. 56 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), and we expect the new-gen model to be slightly more expensive than the outgoing model.
The company further says that in a car equipped with the new improved multi-filter, the amount of 'fine dust' particles smaller than 0.4 micrometre can be as much as 70% less than in a car without the filter. This is considered to be a significant improvement as several studies have shown that dust particles smaller than 10 micrometre can be the reason for a number of health problems including difficulty in breathing and lung infections.
"Up to 45 per cent of the industrialised world's population is now suffering from some form of allergy or hypersensitivity. Over ten per cent has asthma. At Volvo, our commitment to safety goes well beyond safety belts and air bags. It's about making sure that every minute you and your family spend in a Volvo is as safe as it can possibly be. That includes breathing," says Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President Research and Development. "With this filter we are now at the forefront of the industry in terms of particle separation."
Other than the new multi air-filter, Volvo's Interior Air Quality System (IAQS) also has a sensor that monitors the incoming air for noxious substances. If at any time the level of harmful substances is too high, the car's air intakes are shut automatically. Volvo claims that both, the multi-filter and the sensor, keep out several harmful and irritating pollutants such as Nitrogen oxides, Hydrocarbons, Ground-level ozone, Gases and unpleasant odours etc.