For nearly 80 years, the iron mark has been a symbol of Swedish luxury (in the first Volvo passenger cars, the mark was made of white gold!). But now, it might become synonymous with decadent eco-consciousness thanks to electric technology and energy-saving automotive lights.

Volvo has announced the prototype for its all-electric C30 compact car, to be debuted at next month's Detroit Auto Show. While other environmentally friendly C30 concepts have been discussed, this will be the first the first to feature an all-electric drivetrain and full interior complete with instrumentation.

Michigan's Oakland Business Review reports that a University of Michigan study found that electric car technology has the potential to reduce the nation's greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 40 percent.

More, the new C30, like other Volvo models, features halogen auto lamps. The halogen bulbs produce 50 percent more light than traditional incandescent bulbs. More, the energy-saving light bulbs last three times as long as traditional bulbs.

While the release of the eco-friendly cars is highly anticipated, the manufacturers still admit there are some issues to be worked through before the cars offer drivers a ride as smooth as other Volvo models.

Lennart Stegland, director of Volvo Cars Special Vehicles is optimistic. He says that electric cars represent "yet another interesting challenge in [Volvo's] dedication to building the world's safest cars," but is confident that the company can "make rechargeable cars the most attractive choice in the future."