Volvo Cars design team and Aria has come up with a stunning Surf Rescue Concept that is inspired by lifeguard vehicles seen at California beaches. The XC70 Surf Rescue Concept is equipped with a 3.2-liter engine that revs up 235 hp and rides on top of a 5-inch lift suspension, oversized tires and heavily altered body panels.

And since it’s a Surf Rescue vehicle expect for life-saving equipment and custom rescue surfboards loaded on it. Just like every SEMA concept from Volvo, all of the XC70 SR’s standard safety equipment is intact and fully operational. Moreover, the 2008 Volvo XC70 is all new and integrates the leading edge of passive and preventative safety systems.

The XC70 Surf Rescue Concept with its Volvo wheel hub assemblies will make its world debut at this year’s Specialty Equipment Market Association tradeshow.

According to Ingrid Skogsmo, Director of Volvo Cars Safety Center, "We developed the all-new XC70 with the goal that it should be the safest vehicle in its segment. The XC70 model shares the same sophisticated network of interacting safety systems as the all-new Volvo S80. The patented body structure absorbs energy in a highly efficient way. And the interior safety system includes the latest generation of side airbags and whiplash protection. Furthermore, we are introducing a world innovation in the field of child safety."

The XC70 display a true demonstration of versatility by combining a height-adjustable integrated booster cushion which is a world’s first with an extended inflatable curtain that provide an unmatched passenger  safety system for precious cargo in the rear seat.

Additional technological updates include a new, stronger side structure that optimizes side-impact protection that is ideal especially for kids’ passengers. The entire body structure is made stronger and lighter thanks to the combination of high-tensile steel of different grades.

The high ground clearance of the all-new XC70 plus its relatively high positioned bumpers create a greater risk of damage to an oncoming passenger car with lower positioned bumpers. To further reduce the risk of injury in a collision, the front suspension sub-frame is supplemented with a lower cross-member positioned at the height of the bumper in a conventional car.

The lower beam is integrated into the XC70’s structure and is concealed behind the spoiler. In case of a collision, the lower cross-member is directed to strike the incoming’s car protective structure while activating its crumple zone in order to protect the occupants.