Volvo fields five concepts at SEMA

Volvo are fielding quite a range of modified cars at this years SEMA, in celebration of their fifth straight year at the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association tradeshow. We’ve already featured the Heico Sportiv S80 and S30 but there are a few other notable Volvos worth looking at. Built purely as design concepts and prototypes, Volvo not only worked with German tuners Heico Sportiv but also Californian based Caresto who created the Caresto Hot Rod first seen at SEMA in 2006 as well as the Caresto C70 convertible which debuted at this years SEMA.

The Caresto Hot Rod was so well received at SEMA in 2006 that Volvo Cars brought it back for the 2007 show as a compliment to the Caresto C70 Convertible. Completely hand assembled from aluminum and carbon fibre, the Caresto Hot Rod features many Volvo parts, including the mid-engine 232kW/311hp V8 engine. Craftsmanship is what sets the Caresto Hot Rod apart from many other custom cars.

Built as a successor to the Caresto Hot Rod the Caresto C70 has seen its output increased from 162kW/218hp to 207kW/278hp and maximum torque increased from 319Nm to 440Nm. The interior has been completely redone featuring hand stitched chestnut leather. Body modifications include new front and rear clips with distinctive brushed aluminum inserts around the fog lights and custom exhaust ports.

Volvo are also displaying an XC70 SR designed around the lifeguard vehicles seen on many California beaches, it rides atop a 5-inch-lift suspension, oversized tyres and heavily modified body panels. Inside is a full compliment of life-saving equipment and custom rescue surfboards. The 3.2-litre engine produces 175kW/235hp that is transferred through all four wheels via Volvo's electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system.

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