Volvo had a little mishap when its new S60 model collided with a lorry during a demonstration of its new collision warning system, Wired.co.uk reports.

The car, not due for release until later this year, was propelled from the Swedish manufacturer’s testing tunnel towards a truck at about 30mph, but instead of the warning system bringing it to a stop, the vehicle smashed into the truck.

Press who had assembled to see the device in action did get a preview of its effectiveness earlier in the day, and Volvo claimed the crash was down to human error.

Initially launched in 2000, the S60 is a compact executive sedan, the upgraded version of which will range in price from £23,295 to £36,745.

The three engine choices include the standard 203bhp D5 diesel, or the improved T6 petrol engine, which offers 300bhp and takes the S60 from a standstill to 60mph in just 6.5 seconds.

Volvo recently announced in its Sustainability Report that it would increase its focus on producing an eco-friendly range of cars.