Just for FUN: that Jean-Claude Van Damme Volvo Commercial

Click right HERE for the Auto Channel’s “full story” that explains the purpose and production of the Volvo commercial, and gives a demonstration of the dynamic steering feature which Van Damme’s stunt was designed to highlight.  Included in the video is the Epic Split commercial which has so many people buzzing.   Pharmer envies Van Damme’s flexibility, and ability to hold the position.  She’s 17 months older than him and is still doing martial arts with what’s left of herself.  Check out the Pharmer eye view below, after you watch that commercial.

Martial Artist's Whacko Stunt for Volvo
Martial Artist’s Whacko Stunt for Volvo

-Yes those trucks are going backwards, not too fast, but it’s still impressive.
-The visible breaks in the film probably have to do with splicing the films from the cameras taking this shot from the -various positions. It is said to have been done in one take.
-There are two people in each truck, with eyes seemingly riveted on the mirror or view finder in Van Damme’s direction.
-The Drivers keep those trucks aligned perfectly with the marker lines below.
-Only the truck on the left steers outward. The Truck on the right stays aligned with the original line.
-The left truck appears to key off a second solid line, and a broken line to stop moving outward and hold position.
-The speed of those trucks might be computer synchronized, but Volvo is claiming that the steering is done manually by the drivers.
-Take some time to watch Van Damme adjusting his feet, on the platforms above the mirrors, as the truck on the left drives outward. The guy has muscles.

Respect to the performers and Volvo’s marketing department, for making such a memorable commercial.