Volvo Gives XC90 To Pope Benedict XVI

Volvo Cars presented His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI, with one of its Sport Utility Vehicles. The keys of the car were delivered to the Pope in the Vatican, on Wednesday June 28th, with a short ceremony in front of the Papal Audience. The delivery of the keys to the Pope has taken place in the Vatican, during a short ceremony after the Papal Audience. To represent Volvo Cars, Gerry Keaney, Vice President Volvo Car Corporation, Marketing Sales and Service, Pascal Bellemans, President Volvo Auto Italia, and Michele Crisci, General Manager Volvo Auto Italia attended.

The Volvo XC90 delivered to the Pope - and fitted for His personal use - is a V8 version. It is a dark blue XC90 with light interiors. Since its debut, the Volvo XC90 has set the highest standards among SUV when it comes to Safety, in all driving conditions and on any surface. The AWD system (all-wheel drive) allows the car excellent off-road behavior, while ROPS System helps the car avoiding roll-over or reducing consequences of that type of accident.

The Volvo XC90 has also been designed and built not only to protect people on board, but also in order to enhance Safety performances on other vehicles in case of impact.

"We are absolutely happy and proud of the opportunity we had to give a car to the Pope. Safety has always been a no-compromise must for Volvo; no doubt, our strong commitment to safeguard lives could not get a higher and more touching recognition", said Pascal Bellemans, President Volvo Auto Italia.