Volvo to launch green range

* C30 Sportscoupe, S40 saloon and V50 Sportswagon * All emit under 120g/km of CO2 * Range will be called Drive...

Volvo to launch green range

Volvo will unveil a trio of low-emission cars at the Paris motor show next month, before putting them on sale in mid-November.

The C30 Sportscoupe, S40 saloon and V50 Sportswagon will be branded Drive and all emit under 120g/km of carbon dioxide.

They will all be powered by a 1.6-litre diesel engine. Average fuel consumption on the C30 is 64.2mpg, while the S40 and V50 achieve 62.8mpg.

The C30 emits 115g/km of CO2, 14g/km less than the standard car, while the S40 and V50 emit 118g/km, 11g/km and 14g/km less respectively than the standard models.

The reduced emissions have been achieved by maximising the cars' aerodynamics, fitting low-resistance tyres, increasing gear ratios, optimising engine cooling and using low-friction oils.

Prices have yet to be announced, but the Drive cars are expected to cost around 100-300 more than the standard models.

However, some kit may be dropped from the spec if it affects the car's aerodynamics.