Volvo ‘light spray’ set to save cyclists’ lives

Volvo LifePaint is a reflective spray aimed at increasing the visibility and safety of cyclists and pedestrians. It is being launched at dealers around the country in time for darker nights when the clocks go back on Sunday.

LifePaint is an illuminating safety paint which is invisible by daylight, but in the dark reflects light back at the source.

The innovative reflective spray, which was first available as part of a limited pilot in April 2015, is designed to react to a car’s headlights, alerting drivers to the presence of other road users in the dark. Volvo has secured a further partnership with the makers of the product, Swedish start-up Albedo100, to distribute the product through its dealer network.

The product, first distributed through six London bike shops, sold out within 24 hours, creating massive demand for wider distribution. From this weekend the product will be available in participating Volvo dealers and customers will be invited down to take part in events to demonstrate how the product works as well as purchase some for themselves.

Barnetts Motor Group in Dundee is among the dealers who will be stocking the paint and it is holding open days on 24 and 25 October, from 10am to 2pm, offering free sprays to demonstrate how the product works.

Lynne Ogg, of Barnetts, said: “Every year more than 19,000 cyclists are injured on the UK’s roads. At Volvo, we believe that the best way to survive a crash is not to crash at all, and are committed to making the roads a safer place by reducing the number of accidents. Volvo is a world-leader in safety technology, and we are proud to be extending our reach beyond just those driving our cars. By making road users increasingly visible as well as increasing the safety capabilities of our cars, we are doing our utmost to protect everyone on the road. We look forward to welcoming customers who would like to try out Volvo Cars LifePaint with a free spray on our forecourt and we also  will have a limited supply for those who wish to make purchases to use throughout the winter to help them stay safe in the dark.”