World famous for their leading research on safety, Swedish Volvo importing a few evaluation cars into the UK in 1956, with an established network starting 2 years later. At the time Sweden also used the RHD format, making the strategy marginally more cost effective than other European countries. The cars proved to be strong and particularly long lasting. Volvo collaborated with Jensen for a short period to produce their P1800 and have since maintained close links with the UK for parts. Volvo also acquired DAF in the 70’s and assimilated their cars into the range. At one point the company was owned by Ford and currently under Chinese ownership.