Centre stage of the Volvo stand was ReCharge, a Concept plug-in hybrid car that was first shown in Frankfurt. The ReCharge is a battery electric car with an efficient generator and an Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) that comes into play when the battery charge is low.

Under the bonnet is a 1.6-litre Flexifuel engine that drives an advanced generator delivering power to a battery that, in turn, powers all four wheels by individual electric motors. However, the engine does not power the car directly. When the battery has been depleted, the generator delivers power to the wheels with assistance from the APU.

The ReCharge Concept has a range of about 100 km (62 miles) on battery power alone and it can be recharged from a regular electrical outlet. Located in the cargo area, the battery pack uses lithium-polymer technology that is designed for long life.

When 70 percent of the battery power has been used, the combustion engine starts automatically but the driver can also control the engine manually from a button on the dash to maximize the use of battery power.

Volvo V70 and XC70

Two new versions of Japan's favorite Volvo, the V70 and XC70 also made their Asian debut at the Tokyo Motor Show. Completely new in both appearance and under the skin, the V70 and XC70 are obviously from the same family but the designers have done a great job of giving these two vehicles distinct personalities.

With styling cues coming from the new S80, the V70 has a powerful, sporty look, with strong lines, a raised bonnet and a roof line that slopes down at the rear to give the look of moving forward, even when standing still.

While the V70 looks like it’s built for speed, the XC70 appears ready to head off the tarmac thanks to increased ground clearance and protective cladding round the lower sections of the car.

For the first time, the V70 and XC70 will be available with a 6-cylinder engine. The normally aspirated 3.2-litre inline six puts out 238 horsepower, while the top-end T6—only for the V70—adds a twin-scroll turbocharger which boosts power to 285 horsepower. A turbocharged 5-cylinder, as well as two diesel options for Europe will also be available.

The redesigned V70 and XC70 will both go on sale in Japan during January 2008.