Less than 100 days after leaving Mercedes-Benz’s Beijing operation to lead Volvo Cars Greater China, Duan Jianjun is overseeing a project Volvo long resisted: a full-size flagship sedan.
36Kr has learned from several sources that Volvo is preparing to launch a high-end D-segment sedan, codenamed “561.” People familiar with the matter said the model is being positioned against the Maextro S800. It would sit above the S90 as the flagship sedan in Volvo’s lineup.
Duan joined Volvo in May and took responsibility for its product, R&D, supply chain, and sales operations in China. During his previous 13 years at Mercedes-Benz’s Beijing business, he helped the Mercedes-Benz S-class and Mercedes-Maybach establish a foothold in China’s D-segment sedan market.
Project 561 will be the first major test of his leadership at Volvo.
According to 36Kr, the vehicle is planned as a China-only model and will follow the joint development approach used for models such as the XC70. Volvo China will define the product, set safety standards, and oversee vehicle homologation. Geely’s China R&D team will be responsible for the battery, electric motor, and power electronics systems, as well as vehicle engineering and supply chain management.
