At the recent 2011 Shanghai Auto Show Volvo took the wraps off a new concept car dubbed the Concept Universe, which was initially designed to preview a new luxury flagship sedan envisioned by the Swedish automaker for the Chinese market.

There have also been rumblings that the design could preview the replacement for the current S80, which was just facelifted for the 2012 model year and is long overdue to be replaced. But according to Volvo CEO Stefan Jacoby, neither vehicles are the plan--mid-term or long-term.

We’re not at all surprised given the mixed reactions the concept has received since its unveiling. Here’s a video providing a behind the scenes look into the gestation of the concept and what significance it may have, if any, in the future of Volvo.

For our detailed write-up on the 2011 Volvo Concept Universe, click here.