Volvo officially adds iPod option

To build on the story we brought you during MacWorld comes the official word from Volvo that they will offer two options for iPod connectivity across their 2005 model line-up. One type of adapter offered in the S60, S80 and V70/XC70 models features the glovebox connector similar to the one used in BMW's but unlike that set-up Volvo's will allow you to select tracks and control volume from steering wheel controls. Unfortunately the S40, V50 and XC90 will use a dashboard mounted FM modulator adapter. But on the upside Volvo will feature custom playlists on iTunes featuring today's "best" Scandinavian artists. Pricing for either adapter hasn't been announced yet.

[Via Autoblog]

[Michael Day @ Dec 19th 2005 2:47AM]

Will that be Scandinavian artists like Gluecifer and Hellacopters, or more the Abba variety.

[waffffffle @ Dec 19th 2005 2:47AM]

"One type of adapter offered in the S60, S80 and V70/XC70 models features the glovebox connector similar to the one used in BMW�s but unlike that set-up Volvo�s will allow you to select tracks and control volume from steering wheel controls."

The BMW lets you use the steering wheel and dash board controls to move between tracks and playlists (only the first 5 and your library) as if they were CDs in the changer.

[David Thomas @ Dec 19th 2005 2:47AM]

I was under the impression from early reports that the steering wheel controls did not work with the BMW.

[JK @ Dec 19th 2005 2:47AM]

The head unit and steering wheel controls do work with the BMW adapter. However, the iPod's OWN controls (and screen!) are disabled. IMO, the BMW adapter is a piece of shit. It can't do one thing that a Neo iOn or Denison ICElink can't, and those can do things that it can't (control via head unit, steering wheel, OR iPod). Plus they're cheaper.

[Don @ Dec 19th 2005 2:47AM]

Yeah...another $500 piece of electronics to breakdown for my Volvo. I long for the pre-computer era of Volvos in which they truly would last forever. Never again Volvo...not even with an iPod.

[BC @ Dec 19th 2005 2:47AM]

As waffffffle said, the BMW intigration allows full access from the steering wheel or head unit.

Regarding loss of control via the ipod: It's simple, BMW wants your eyes on the road where they should be. I have already had two of my friends get into accidents from scrolling through their ipods while driving.

Personally, I have no problem with it. I have a system that works for me, kind of like that guy in Memento...

[Sebhelyesfarku @ Dec 19th 2005 2:47AM]

Volvo and iPod: ideal product bundle for IQ80 soccer moms.

[Evan @ Dec 19th 2005 2:47AM]

Michael- I'm also hoping it's the 'copters, but if it has to be an ABBA track, then maybe it'll be Sweden's Therion covering Summernight City.

[waffffffle @ Dec 19th 2005 2:47AM]

I have the ice link in my celica and it's pretty good. Slightly buggy but its nice to have it in a cradle on my dash so I can always see the screen.

[Bala @ Dec 19th 2005 2:47AM]

I don't understand why the other MP3 players are taking this lying down. Every step that Apple is taking is towards establishing a monopoly. Add to that the support it is getting from partners such as Volvo.
http://balak.blogspot.com/2005/01/ipod-monopolizing-market.html

[mobilexile @ Dec 19th 2005 2:47AM]

Great, now the mechanics can listen to your iPod when they work on it. And, since it's a Volvo, that will be 4 of every 5 days.

[Kevin Karr @ Dec 19th 2005 2:47AM]

Does anyone know if the iPod option can be put on an 04 S60 model?

[Jon @ Dec 19th 2005 2:47AM]

Here's some news - that I hope is not B.S. - but I've had an interesting email correspondence with an official Volvo rep (from Volvo USA) and he's saying that there will be two iPod adapters (both direct - not FM, or tape) available for 2004 Volvo's as well (which makes me happy since I own a 2004 S60R).

But like I said - I hope he is serious.

Jon in Portland

[Jon @ Dec 19th 2005 2:47AM]

I forgot to mention in my last comment, that the rep said the iPod adapters will be available sometime this Summer. That's about the only information I have - and I think he said they would be available through the dealer.
When I find the email thread at work, I'll update the post.