Volvo – the largest industrial company in the Nordic countries – began operating as a car manufacturer in 1927 and currently runs extensive operations within the transport equipment industry. These operations comprise cars, trucks, buses, construction equipment, propulsion systems for marine and industrial use, plus the development, production and maitenance of aircraft engines. In addition to production in Sweden, Volvo produces cars, trucks and buses within the EU, has a complete truck operation in the USA, together with truck and bus production in Brazil and production facilities in countries including Poland, Australia, Malaysia and Thailand. The Volvo Group has a worldwide organi- sation for marketing and service. More than 85% of sales are made on markets outside Sweden. Volvo is one of the world's most powerful brand names. It stands for quality, safety and environmental concern.