The international Volvo meeting Swiss Volvo Meeting (SVM) is being held this year in Heimberg, at the gateway to the Bernese Oberland, for the 17th time since 1992. Volvo fans travel from near and far to talk shop about their brand. Around 500 Volvos are expected - a colorful mix ranging from classic cars to new vehicles.
Volvo for all the senses
On Saturday afternoon (the day before), a number of selected Volvo old/youngtimers will be on display for free viewing in the picturesque old town of Thun. In this way, the SVM is campaigning for the preservation of classic motor vehicles and their recognition as a rolling cultural asset - not least to attract new fans to the young/old-timer hobby.
There are plenty of parking spaces around the "Heimberg Center" building complex for fans of the traditional Swedish brand from near and far. In the parking garage, there will be a lively stand with spare parts and everything a Volvo fan or a Swedish heart could possibly desire - including a Volvo new car show.
For the first time, interested visitors can take a spin in a young or vintage car themselves with "young4vintage", accompanied by an experienced instructor.
The COOP restaurant "Chacheli" will be open and running the official festival catering. All car enthusiasts who do not drive a Volvo but simply enjoy the subject are also very welcome. The organizer has set aside a special parking area on the large grounds for this purpose.
Humpback Volvo and extravagant Volvos
The special exhibition "Humpback Volvo" provides an insight into the first mass-produced model of the car manufacturer from Gothenburg, which was introduced in 1944 and manufactured from 1947 to 1965.
The second show presents extravagant Volvo vehicles that either have a special meaning or were specially built by their owners.
For the first time at the SVM: young4vintage.ch
If you still haven't had enough of marveling at standing sheet metal, you can get help in Heimberg! After all, what could be more fun than driving your dream car yourself? It might convince some people that this sensory-aesthetic hobby, which involves oil and rust, is something for them!
Owners are happy to explain everything, but at some point it's all theory, I want to sit in it! Here you can still experience it up close and with all your senses: the crisp, manual shifting, the direct feedback from the engine, chassis, springs and tires and the astonished and delighted looks from young and old when you come along in a car that you don't see on every corner!
With "young4vintage.ch", the Swiss Volvo Meeting and the Swiss umbrella organization for historic vehicles SHVF are giving young fans who have their eye on a classic car the opportunity to get behind the wheel themselves (or take a ride)!
The free fun rides in various classic cars last around 10 - 20 minutes. Experienced instructors accompany the driver (or cab driver). Self-drivers must be insured and need a driver's license. No pre-registration is necessary. Simply come to the stand on Sunday, August 31.
Further information can be found on the event website.
