The question of what the brand of a car with a plus is called is often asked by car enthusiasts who have seen a car with an unusual or minimalistic logo on the road. There are thousands of brands in today's automotive world, and many of them use geometric shapes, including crosses, arrows and crosshairs, as the basis for their branding. Manufacturer identification by the emblem is the first step to understanding the origin, quality and status of the vehicle.
The most famous answer to this question is the Swedish brand Volvo, whose logo contains a diagonal stroke resembling a plus. However, there are other brands that are less popular in our latitudes, for example, Chinese Haval or historical British AC Cars, which also use crosshairs in their design. Understanding the differences between these symbols helps not only satisfy curiosity, but also avoid mistakes when searching for spare parts or evaluating a car on the secondary market.
In this article we will analyze in detail the main automobile brands whose logos can be described as “a car with a plus.” We will look at the history of the signs, their evolution and what they mean in the context of the manufacturers' philosophy. Visual code The automotive industry is rich in symbols, and reading them correctly opens the door to the world of engineering in different countries.
Market leader: Volvo's Swedish reliability
When it comes to the question of which brand of car is a plus, in 90% of cases it means Volvo. This Swedish concern, founded in 1927, uses one of the most recognizable symbols in the industry. The logo is a circle with an arrow emerging from the upper right part, which is crossed out by a diagonal stripe. It is this stripe, running from the lower left corner to the upper right, that visually creates the effect of a plus or cross, especially when looking at the car from afar or from a certain angle.
The history of this sign is rooted in alchemy and astronomy. The circle with an arrow is an ancient symbol of iron, emphasizing the strength and reliability of the Swedish steel from which SKF bearings, Volvo's predecessor, were originally made. The diagonal stroke, or "iron mark", was added later in the 1920s and became a distinctive feature of the brand. The diagonal stripe in the Volvo logo symbolizes safety and quality and is an integral part of the brand's DNA.
Modern models such as Volvo XC90 or Volvo S90, wear this badge with pride. The company's engineers are constantly improving safety systems, and the logo has become synonymous with protecting the lives of passengers. If you see a car with such a “plus”, you can be sure: this is a representative of the Scandinavian school of automotive engineering, where priority is security and ergonomics.
It is important to note that the design of the emblem has changed over the past decades. If earlier it was a voluminous metal sign, now, in the era of electrification (Recharge series models), the brand is moving to flatter, streamlined versions of the logo that fit better into the aerodynamics of electric cars. Nevertheless, that same “plus” remains an unchanged attribute, recognizable anywhere in the world.
Chinese cross: Haval brand philosophy
The second most popular answer to the question about the car brand with a plus is the Chinese brand Haval. This manufacturer, a division of Great Wall Motors Corporation, specializes in the production of crossovers and SUVs. The Haval logo is a stylized “H” inscribed in a circle or hexagon (depending on generation and model), which very much resembles a bold, powerful plus.
The logo design was developed taking into account the company's global ambitions. The vertical and horizontal bars of the letter "H" symbolize the balance between tradition and innovation. Unlike the thin Volvo line, the Haval “plus” looks massive and heavy, which emphasizes off-road character most brand models. Cars like Haval F7 or Haval Dargo are actively conquering the markets of developing countries, including Russia.
⚠️ Attention: Do not confuse the Haval logo with the Honda emblem. Although both use the letter "H", the Honda's is inscribed in a square or oval without a clear emphasis on the intersection of the lines, creating more of a trapezoidal shape, while the Haval's emphasis is on the crosshairs, creating a plus effect.
The success of the brand is largely due to its aggressive pricing policy and rich equipment. By purchasing a car with this logo, the consumer receives a modern design, turbocharged engines and digital interfaces. The “plus” on the Haval hood has become a symbol of rapid growth of the Chinese automobile industry, which in 10 years has gone from copying to creating its own platforms.
Rare and historical brands with crosshairs
The world of cars is full of rare examples whose logos can also be described as a “plus car.” One of these is the British manufacturer AC Cars, known for its sports models, including the legendary Cobra. Their emblem often contains a stylized crosshair or letters forming a cross. Also worth mentioning is the German company NSU, which used a logo of the letter "N" in a circle, but in some variations and historical references their symbols could be interpreted as intersecting lines symbolizing engineering precision.
Another interesting example is the logos of various medical or specialized vehicles, which are sometimes mistaken for civilian brands. However, if we talk specifically about production passenger cars, the list narrows down to a few main players. The table below compares the main characteristics of brands using cross motifs.
| Brand | Country | Year founded | Logo description | Typical models |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Volvo | Sweden | 1927 | Circle with arrow and diagonal | XC60, S90, EX90 |
| Haval | China | 2013 | Stylized H in circle/hexagon | F7, Jolion, Dargo |
| AC Cars | UK | 1904 | Crosshair in shield or circle | Cobra, Ace |
| Chery (old) | China | 1997 | Letter A resembling a cross | Tiggo, Arrizo |
The brand is also worth mentioning Chery. Early versions of their logo used the letter "A", which with its sharp angles and intersecting lines could also resemble a cross or plus, although in modern versions the brand has moved away from this shape towards a more abstract logo. Understanding the evolution of logos helps with identification old models at auctions or in collectors' garages.
Why do logos change over time?
Manufacturers change logos to keep up with the times. Flat logos look better on digital screens of multimedia systems and in mobile applications. In addition, a simplified form often marks a brand's transition to a new stage of development or a change in strategy, such as a focus on electric vehicles.
Technical features of identification by emblem
For experts and auto mechanics, a logo is not just a pretty picture, but a key to catalog numbers spare parts Knowing the exact make and model (for example, distinguishing a Haval from a Honda), you can choose the right filters, brake pads or body parts. An error in identification can lead to the purchase of incompatible parts, since the mounting holes and geometry of the units differ from different manufacturers, even if the machines are visually similar.
Modern technologies make it possible to use image recognition to identify a brand. Just point your smartphone camera at the “plus” on the radiator grille, and applications like Google Lens or specialized car catalogs will give you the exact model name. However, knowing the basic signs “by sight” remains an important skill for any car enthusiast. This helps you quickly assess the situation on the road and understand what type of car you are dealing with - be it a heavy SUV or a passenger car.
- 🚗 Visual inspection: Pay attention to the shape of the logo border (circle, oval, hexagon) - this is the first sign that Volvo differs from Haval.
- 🔍 Detail: Volvo always has an arrow pointing to the right and up, which other brands with crosses do not have.
- 📱 Digital assistance: Use the VIN located under the windshield for 100% brand confirmation if the logo is damaged or altered.
You may find a Volvo with a black logo or a Haval with a chrome trim. In such cases, you should rely on the general shape of the body and the characteristic design features of a particular model, and not just on the color of the emblem.
If you buy a car second-hand and the logo on it has been replaced or looks suspicious, be sure to check the VIN through official databases. This will help reveal the incorrect mileage or history of the car in a taxi, which is often hidden by unscrupulous sellers.
The symbolism of the cross in automotive design
The use of a cross or a plus in logos is not accidental. In heraldry and semiotics, the crosshair symbolizes the crossing of paths, precision of direction, and is also often associated with medical care and rescue. For the automotive industry, where safety comes first, such symbolism is extremely beneficial. Volvo, which bills itself as the safest car in the world, has been operating this association for almost a century.
In addition, the cross is one of the oldest symbols, understandable in any culture. It does not require translation and is easy to read at high speed. Designers use this technique to create a feeling of stability and reliability. A horizontal line can mean land or a road, and a vertical line can mean upward movement, development and progress. The combination of these lines gives a powerful energy charge to the brand.
Interestingly, some owners modify the emblems themselves, adding backlighting or changing the color to make the “plus” more noticeable. However, from a legal point of view, changing the logo to the registered trade name of another brand can be considered a violation of intellectual property rights, although the police rarely pay attention to this unless it is impersonating a special vehicle.
⚠️ Warning: Installing intelligence agency logos (such as a red cross) on civilian vehicles is prohibited by law in many countries and may result in a fine and confiscation of the insignia. Be careful when tuning emblems.
How to spot a fake logo
There are many counterfeit products on the auto parts and accessories market. Emblems for radiator grilles are no exception. A fake Volvo or Haval “plus” may differ in casting quality, color and even geometry. When purchasing a car or replacing a badge, it is important to pay attention to the details. The original emblem always has clear edges, uniform coverage and correct proportions.
Chinese spare parts manufacturers often produce generic logos that only vaguely resemble the original. If you see that the “plus” on the car is skewed, has burrs, or the color of the plastic differs from the color of the body (not by design, but due to fading or poor quality), this is a reason to be wary. Such signs may indicate that the car was in a serious accident and the body parts were changed in a makeshift manner.
☑️ Checking the originality of the emblem
For vintage car collectors, the issue of logo authenticity is especially acute. Restoring the historical appearance of a car requires searching for original nameplates of the corresponding year of manufacture. In this case, the “plus” on the hood becomes not just a marking, but a historical artifact that affects the value of the entire car.
Conclusion and prospects for brands
The answer to the question “what is the name of the car brand with a plus” turned out to be multi-layered. The Swedish giant remains the undisputed leader here Volvo, whose symbol has become an icon of security. However, the rising star of the Chinese auto industry Haval confidently occupies a niche with its powerful cross logo. Both brands, despite their different histories and origins, use this geometric element to convey the values of reliability and progress.
The future of car logos lies in flat numbers. We are already seeing how voluminous nameplates are becoming a thing of the past, giving way to luminous panels and minimalistic signs on screens. But for now, the “plus” on the radiator grill remains an important marker that helps us navigate the diversity of the automotive world. Understanding these symbols makes us smarter road users and consumers.
Knowing the differences in the Volvo and Haval logos will help you quickly identify a car on the road and select the right spare parts, since these brands have completely different technical platforms.
In the end, it doesn't really matter how many lines intersect on the hood of your car. The main thing is which path you choose and how safely it will be passed. A car brand is just a tool, and driver skill and responsibility on the road remain unchanged values, no matter what logo adorns your vehicle.
Interesting fact about Volvo
The name Volvo comes from the Latin word meaning “I roll.” Initially, this name was intended for ball bearings, but later became the name of a legendary automobile brand, whose logo is recognized all over the world.
Is it true that the Volvo logo is associated with Mars?
Yes, it's true. The symbol of a circle with an arrow pointing upward to the right is an astronomical and alchemical symbol for iron, which is also associated with the planet Mars. In ancient times, Mars was believed to be iron, and this sign was used by alchemists to represent this metal.
What does the H mean in the Haval logo?
The letter H in the Haval logo is the first letter of the brand name. However, the designers put a meaning into it: the horizontal crossbar symbolizes earth and stability, and the vertical crossbar symbolizes development and growth. Together they form a cross, symbolizing balance.
Are there other cars with the cross logo?
Yes, besides Volvo and Haval, elements of the cross can be found in the Alfa Romeo logos (a red cross on a white background on the left side of the shield), as well as in the historical emblems of British and American brands of the early 20th century, such as Overland or some variations of the Dodge logos.
Can I change the logo on my car myself?
Technically, you can replace the nameplate if it is attached with double-sided tape or latches. However, it is important to remember the legal aspects: you cannot install logos of other brands or intelligence agencies, so as not to mislead other road users and law enforcement agencies.
Why are logos made voluminous?
Three-dimensional logos (3D) create a feeling of premiumness and depth. They play with light better, casting shadows and creating highlights, which makes the car more expressive. However, the trend is shifting towards flat logos due to aerodynamic requirements for electric vehicles and display features on digital screens.