Volvo's Safety Philosophy

The major objectives of Ford's e-business strategy were to bring speed, convenience, and information to customers rather than just focusing on cost cutting. The Internet played a crucial role in helping Ford boost the satisfaction levels of its consumers. However, industry analysts felt that Ford must shift from "dealer-centric" selling to "consumer-centric selling, where the buyer gets what consumer actually wants. Since it began making cars in 1924, Volvo has always been at the forefront in conducting R & D for safety technologies, which were way ahead of the times. Volvo's activities have always been strongly influenced by the social commitments of its leaders, starting with safety in 1927 Volvo develop towards advanced safety systems due to Volvo's Safety Philosophy which aims to build cars which primarily help the driver to avoid accidents, help to protect all of the occupants and afford enhanced personal security from threatening situations.

The Volvo Group's product development is affected by changes in society, legislation and the needs of customers. as well as new technology. Volvo has done following advancement in safety technologies from 1927 till 1990's are Safety glass windshields, automatic wipers, steel cage, laminated windshields, seat belts, padded instrument, three-point seat belt, ABS, etc.

In 1969, Volvo instituted the Road Accident Research Group which studied photographs, damage claims, police reports and hospital journals and also interviewed people involved in accidents. All relevant information was reported to the company's design engineers. In 1972, Volvo introduced seat belt reminder to fasten the seatbelt. In 1980, Volvo introduced the wide-angle rear view mirror, which generated a wider angle to view the rear portion of the car. In 1984, Volvo introduced the antilock brake system in its vehicles.

Volvo's constant emphasis on safety research played a major role in developing advanced safety technologies. In 1970s, company decided to deviate from the traditional assembly line system of manufacturing cars, in which the car was moved automatically along the assembly line at a pre-determined pace, while workers located at fixed positions performed their respective assembly role. This system made the work monotonous and increased employee turnover at Volvo's plant which was tried out at Volvo's Kalmar plant.