Case: VOLVO – The XC90 VIP Mahogony Box
2009
During my 7 years for Volvo Cars I had many great projects, but I can't help bringing this one up as one of the most directly satisfying – The XC90 VIP Mahogany Box.
On the table
Volvo came to me with a request: Since the delivery of the first VOLVO XC90 cars had been delayed by a last minute software change, these premium clients had to wait 6 months longer for their darlings. Volvo needed to reward their patience with some kind of exceptional recompense.
The Challenges
Firstly, creating a gift with the Volvo premium feel and still being universal as of application, use, purpose, interests, gender etc. Secondly, a low edition of 35 pieces maintaining top quality with short time for design, accept, production and delivery. And thirdly, to make it 'a durable, solid and long lasting good memory'.
One of the bigger technical challenges was the customised production of the mahogany boxes and for every edition to fit the mobile modell with interior and all (mobile boxes differed). After tests from three producers the right technology was confirmed.
Also to fit the specially made chrome XC90-logo metal badges correctly on the lids was tricky.