I don't have a Volvo, but this would be a nice app...

You don't have to leave your Volvo behind after you park it, in a manner of speaking. The Volvo Car Corporation has a mobile application that enables you to stay in touch with the vehicle via an iPhone or an Android smartphone.

Now available to Volvo owners in Europe, this is sure to expand into our neck of the woods in the near future.

The mobile application is an extension of Volvo On Call, which originally focused on direct access to a callcentre in the event of an accident or other emergency. Presently, Volvo On Call is available in 12 European countries, including Russia.

The system has been reinvented. Owners of all new Volvo models (from model year 2012) with Volvo On Call can download the new application that opens up a range of connectivity possibilities via iPhone or Android smartphone.

Among the features are:

1. Car locator. The location of the car is shown on a map. There is also a digital compass that points the driver in the right direction. If necessary, the car horn and indicators can be activated to facilitate the search;

2. Remote door lock. The status of all doors and windows is displayed - and the driver can lock and unlock the car with a push on the phone's touchscreen;

3. Vehicle dashboard. This feature gives the driver access to a wide range of information - fuel level, remaining range to empty tank, average fuel consumption, average speed, odometer reading and trip meter reading;

4. Car check. The mobile app performs a "health" check of the car, displaying information about bulbs, break fluid level, coolant level, engine oil level and engine oil pressure;

5. Driving journal. Detailed data of each trip during the last 40 days can be downloaded and stored. There is also a possibility to extract the data as an Excel file - a perfect feature for company car owners;

6. Vehicle information. Basic car data such as model, registration number and VIN number are stored and can be displayed; and,

7. Theft notification. If the car alarm is triggered, the driver is immediately alerted via the mobile app.