Volvo cars are designed to be safe, reliable and extremely capable in all kinds of weather. That doesn’t mean you don’t still need to prepare for extreme weather or emergency situations. Keeping an updated emergency kit in your vehicle will ensure you are better prepared in case of an accident, storm or other emergencies. And during the harsh winter months filled with rain and snow, an emergency kit is even more essential. Before heading out on a holiday road trip or winter adventure, review or pack your car’s emergency kit to enjoy your ride with more peace of mind.
Eliminate Range Anxiety
New electric Volvo cars with over-the-air update capability, including the new Volvo XC40 Recharge, will be able to optimize their driving range with the new Volvo Range Assistant app. The new Volvo Range Assistant in-car app tracks your current battery level and helps you practice smart energy management.
The Range Assistant app helps you understand when you are using more energy, enabling you to plan the most efficient route to reach a charging station or minimize excess energy usage. Using the heater, heated seats and other features in your Volvo use up different amounts of energy, or battery life.
The Volvo Range Assistant app will be especially useful on long, winter road trips by optimizing battery usage so you can make fewer stops to recharge. The app will be pre-installed on the new all-electric Volvo C40 and available as an update on the Volvo XC40 Recharge. Eventually, the Range Assistant App will include more features, such as coaching and advice on adjusting your speed and driving style to optimize battery usage and minimize the need to stop at charging stations.
Winter Driving Preparedness
Before heading out on any road trip or into blistery winter weather, ensure your Volvo is ready for cold, wet weather with regular maintenance. Ensure your tires have the proper tread depth and inflation, your windshield wipers are working well, and fluids get filled up. It’s also a good idea to test your brakes and battery. The professionals at the Volvo Walnut Creek Service Center are here to give your Volvo a professional winter checkup and expertly remedy any known maintenance issues.
Vehicle Emergency Kit Checklist
Once you are sure your Volvo is up to the task, take a moment to pack your trunk with these winter essentials:
- Jumper Cables
- Ice Scraper
- Flashlight
- Hat, Gloves, Jacket, Blanket
- Snacks and water bottles
- Knife or Multi-Tool
- Tire Chains (if going to the mountains)
- First Aid Kit
- Phone Charger or Battery; USB Plug
- Spare Tire
- Road Flares
- Sand or Kitty Litter (for getting unstuck)
- Entertainment: Books, Kids Activities, Travel Games (for passing the time)
Luckily, most Volvo cars are off-road capable, and all feature advanced driver-assist and safety features, making it less likely that you will find yourself stranded. But things can happen on slick winter roads, and you are always better off safe than sorry.
Visit Volvo Cars in Walnut Creek, California, for a diverse selection of New Volvos, Certified By Volvo pre-owned Volvos and quality used cars. Our friendly, knowledgeable team is here to make your Volvo purchase easy, stress-free and, dare we say, fun! You can even Custom Order a new Volvo from Volvo Walnut Creek to get the new Volvo you really want. And our experienced team of factory-trained Volvo service technicians are standing by to keep your Volvo running safely and reliably. Schedule your Volvo service appointment online. Volvo Walnut Creek is your East Bay Area Volvo dealership!