Volvo will fit all new models with a data SIM card as standard, giving drivers access to a range of connected services for free for a year.

The SIM card enables the standard-fit Volvo infotainment system to provide live real-time traffic information, as well as entertainment services such as music streaming and internet radio.

It also enables alerts to be received and transmitted when a similarly connected (Volvo) car’s hazard lights are triggered nearby, or slippery road surfaces are encountered. By sharing information in real time via a cloud-based network, Volvo cars can give drivers early warnings about potentially dangerous conditions ahead, reducing the risk of an accident.

Kristian Elvefors, Volvo Car UK managing director, said: “Being connected is a hugely important part of modern life, and in-car connectivity brings a whole host of benefits in terms of entertainment, information, journey planning and safety while on the move. By fitting a data SIM card to every new Volvo, we are ensuring that our customers can enjoy the cutting-edge technology in our cars to the full, while also making their lives easier and more enjoyable.”

The feature is being introduced on all Model Year 2020 cars, and can be retro-fitted with ease to any that have already been delivered to customers.

The SIM card allows the driver and their passengers to be fully connected at all times, with access to 100GB of data for up to one year. Volvo says this is the “longest and most generous” Vodafone plan currently offered by a car maker in the UK.

Operation of the SIM card, which is supported by Vodafone, is independent of any of the occupants’ own SIM-equipped devices, so there is no impact on their personal or business data usage, or device’s battery charge.

The SIM card creates an on-board WiFi hotspot that can be used by up to eight devices. Volvo says this makes life easier and more enjoyable for everyone on board – especially those customers with children, who can keep themselves entertained on long drives by streaming music or movies, or playing online games.

Automatic roaming covers 42 European countries and overseas territories, so performance is uninterrupted on any long, cross-continental drives.

For customers who have already taken delivery of a Model Year 2020 Volvo, the SIM card can be installed at the next workshop visit upon request, or they can contact their retailer to organise a convenient time for the necessary work to be done.

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