MUCH sought after by collectors hand-made Orrefors crystal has been incorporated in the new Volvo S60 concept car centre control panel console.
Volvo engaged the world-renowned Swedish glass artisans to create a floating centre stack of hand-made crystal which will be unveiled at the Detroit international motor show in January 2009.
The 1.6m Orrefors crystal centre stack takes on a gentle, wave-like form from the instrument panel all the way to the rear seat backrest.
Volvo design director Steve Mattin said that it almost looked like a waterfall from the instrument panel, flowing through the centre of the car.
With the help of invisible light sources, the floating crystal panel features a shimmering glow that can be tailored to match the driver's mood.
“If you want to explore the full scope of Scandinavian design, Sweden's glassworks are a natural source of inspiration.
“Large glass areas are also very much part of modern Swedish architecture, creating the special, light transparency,” he said.