Comments on: China Buyout Watch: Geely’s Turn For Volvo?

By: psarhjinian

psarhjinian — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 17:19:18 +0000

…and, top of the list of “Ten Phrases You Will Never See in Mainstream Journalism” is:

Gang-bangs can get a bit sticky, and Autocar found a gooey spot

By: porschespeed

porschespeed — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 16:46:42 +0000

Gang-bangs can get a bit sticky, and Autocar found a gooey spot: “One of the sticking points for any deal with a Chinese maker is the intellectual property agreements concerning the Ford-based platforms on which Volvos are based. Autocar sources say any buyer would be prohibited from using these platforms for any other brand.”

Given the Chinese record of compliance with IP laws in general, I hardly see this as a stumbling block.

American companies (especially automotive) are horrible about this too, but usually they are stealing from another American, and eventually somebody gets paid, albeit poorly, in court.

Just to continue the analogy…Regardless of the ‘IP agreement’ if it goes to the Chinese, that platform will get as big a workout as a hooker that looks like Sara Palin at a Southern Baptist preacher convention.

By: autonut

autonut — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 15:46:44 +0000

I think RedBarchetta is absolutely right. Volvo used to be quirky European car even in Europe, positioned slightly above Audi’s on Alfa level (bellow Benz and BMW). Volvo never provided Benz or BMW performance and panache, but for less coins you were getting decent quality and superb personal safety.
Now there is no reason to purchase Volvo in Europe, ’cause you get everything from Volvo in your Ford for fraction of the cost.
I don’t think Volvo was looked upon favorably in US since that silly Ford acquisition.

By: Redbarchetta

Redbarchetta — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 15:10:09 +0000

Ford-based platforms on which Volvos are based.

Shouldn’t that be the other way around. The Ford’s are sitting on Volvo and Mazda based platforms.

By: craiggbear

craiggbear — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 14:16:24 +0000

LMAO…thanks.

By: Bertel Schmitt

Bertel Schmitt — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 13:56:40 +0000

@craigbear

volvere: to cause to revolve, roll, turn about, turn round

volvo: I revolve, I roll, I turn about, I turn round

So , nomen est omen, we shouldn’t give up hope for “I turn around.”

By: craiggbear

craiggbear — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 13:37:49 +0000

I think the original intent for the meaning of Volvo was “I roll”, wasn’t it?