Geely Maintaining Low Profile as Volvo’s New Owner

Ford Motor is finalizing its sale of Volvo to Geely International, one of China’s premier car manufacturers.  The sale was long expected, but it still comes as an uneasy pill to swallow for Volvo’s following.  Geely execs privately assured both Ford and Volvo management that they would not interfere with the Swedish brand’s operations…yet.

Geely’s strategy is to take a hands-off approach and finance projects underway.  Geely and Volvo are expecting the new S60, the brand’s midsize saloon, to attract new buyers and bring steady revenue.  If all goes well there, Volvo should receive further funding for its extended-range electric powertrain development and a likely revival and expansion of the hi-po “R” line.  Expect a lot to be made of the C30 in the near-future in both cases.