Volvo Travel Companion
FUTURE LIONS 2023
Award
Shortlisted
Role
Concept development, Art Director, Visuell Designer
Brief
In 2023, young people are asked to protect what matters most about our home planet: life itself.
So how can we pioneer technology that doesn’t just move us forward — but keeps us safe when we need it the most?
So how can we pioneer technology that doesn’t just move us forward — but keeps us safe when we need it the most?
Insight
The car has long been a symbol of freedom. It connects places, extends our borders, and has become so integrated into our lives that it feels like an extra limb. But freedom comes at a cost.
Over 5 million traffic accidents occur in the US every year, and 20% of fatal crashes involve drowsy drivers. The risk is highest at night, when our circadian rhythm works against us — and when the people we’d normally call are asleep.
At the moment drivers are most vulnerable, they’re also most alone.
Solution
Introducing Travel Companion — a built-in Volvo feature in both the car and app.
During high-risk night hours, the system connects drivers through voice-only, hands-free calls, pairing them with someone else on the road in a similar situation. No screens. No distractions. Just conversation.
By turning isolation into connection, Travel Companion helps drivers stay alert, present and awake — getting more people home safely.
Why it works
• Human over hardware: instead of more alerts, sounds or screens, we use the oldest safety system there is — another person.
• Perfectly timed: activated when fatigue risk is highest and support is lowest.
• True to Volvo: safety not as control, but as care.
• Technology with empathy: innovation that protects life by creating connection.
Because sometimes, the safest feature in a car is knowing you’re not alone.