Hybrid News

Filed under: Green Culture, Saab, Legislation and Policy, Pacific Region

Truth and advertising often part ways when asked to play nice together in automotive ads. As much as this is the case when comparing cars and their various performance figures, it is also just as apparent when automakers go green with their marketing strategies. We’ve seen it many times before, and we are sure to continue seeing it well into the future. This time, it is Saab′s Australian arm that is being hit for its over-inflated eco. Apparently, a line of marketing that claimed “Every Saab is green, with carbon emissions neutral across the entire Saab range” was found to be a bit misleading. Apparently, missing in the fine print was a note that Saab′s planting of 17 trees only really offset a car’s first year of carbon emissions. By claiming something different, Saab was not being fair dinkum. To make up for this transgression, the Swedish automaker is now planting 12,500 trees to offset the carbon emissions of all the cars sold during this particular campaign.

[Source: Drive via Autoblog]

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Original post by Jeremy Korzeniewski

Filed under: Diesel, Ethanol, Flex-Fuel, Hybrid, Saab

Is that an AMC Gremlin that I see in profile above? Nope… it’s a sketch from TopSpeed of what the impending new Saab 9-1X could look like. We’ve seen some other possible drawings of what shape the new Swedish beauty might take, and all of them have a few peculiar design elements. Saab is known as a “quirky” brand due to their unusual tendencies like placing the ignition between the seats and offering a “blackout″ option for the instruments. In fact, many Saab loyalists have been upset with the direction the company has taken after being acquired by General Motors, as their vehicles are losing their “edge,” so to speak. If drawings like the one above prove at all accurate, though, we’d expect that those same loyalists will be back on the Saab wagon soon enough… but are there enough of them around to make Saab cater to them as opposed to the masses? We could find out as soon as the 2008 London Motor Show, according to TopSpeed. Along with the funky new look, diesel and hybrid powertrains may also be a part of the equation. Don’t forget that Saab is big into E85 with their BioPower vehicles too.

[Source: TopSpeed via Winding Road]

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BOLD MOVES: THE FUTURE OF FORD Step behind the curtain at Ford Motor. Experience the documentary first-hand.

Original post by Jeremy Korzeniewski

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Saab, Volvo, European Union

The Volvo ReCharge

The other day, we got a tip from Stefan N. about a story he found that discussed a new partnership between Saab and Volvo on developing new plug-in hybrids. I asked him to provide us with a more complete translation of the original article (it was in Swedish) and he then provided us his own English version. Thanks, Stefan!

I′ve put the full translation after the jump. Here are the highlights:

As we said, Volvo and Saab will put ten PHEVs on the road by 2009 to create a strong Swedish plug-in market, with vehicle testing to begin next year. Using vehicles from these two automakers, technical know-how from Vattenfall and lithium-ion batteries from ETC Battery, the plug-in hybrid project will have a budget of 62 million Swedish crowns (around $9.6 million U.S.) The vehicle models that will be used and other details are being kept quiet. Continue after the break for more.

AutoblogGreen reader Stefan N.’s translation (slightly cleaned up) of this article:

Saab and Volvo in large plug-in project

Saab and Volvo will begin a large scale project on plug-in cars. In the project the two car manufacturers will test 10 plug-in cars in traffic during the next year. “We will be testing larger Volvo models working as PHEV,” says Klas Niste at Volvo Cars.

There is a lot of hush hush around this project. But in the corporations’ request for subsidies from the energy department, the goal is clear. The corporations wants to create a Swedish market for plug-in hybrids. Or as they write themselves, “Demonstrate how a simple customer-attractive total solution for plug-in hybrids could look like”.

Included in the project are Vattenfall and battery manufacturer ETC AB in Nol, Sweden. And what the different corporations are supplying is obvious. Volvo and Saab will provide ten PHEV cars. Vattenfall will provide technical solutions for loading the cars in a efficient way. ETC Battery will provide their lithium-ion batteries.

The project should run through 2008-2010 and the ten plug-in hybrids will be in traffic in 2009. Total budget is 62 million crowns, approx $10 million U.S. and the corporations has been seeking half the budget in subsidies. But to receive 50 percent financing it was demanded that more research and development was included in the project, according to the committee for the vehicle research, which gave clearance for a third of the total budget in subsidies.

-The next step will be that the four corporations return with an application where they assure that they pay for 65 percent of the finances, then it can proceed to the energy development committee, at the Energy department, which will decide on the subsidies surmounting 10 million crowns. I think a decision will be made in January-February and if they keep their promise of 65 percent of the financing they will get an OK, says Gunnar Lindstedt at Vinnova, secretary of the committee who recommends that the project should receive 20 million crowns in support. Both car manufacturers are keeping secret which models will be provided with PHEV functionality. So far the Volvo Cars has only shown the ᩊ as a PHEV. But, according to Klas Niste at Volvo Cars, there will be larger models included in the project. But what larger models has Volvo developed with plug-in technology? No comments, says Klas Niste.

Fact on the Plug-in project Project description in the application for money from Program council for vehicle research. “The application is regarding financial support to establish a common development and demonstration project for plug-in hybrids between SAAB Automobile, Volvo Car Corporation, Vattenfall AB and ETC AB. With the collaborations the parts want to strengthen the possibilities to create a future Swedish united, political and industrial, force for plug-in hybrids. Plug-in hybrids have a big potential to give a large contribution for Sweden to reach national and international climate goal and lessen the dependence on fossil fuel.

Goals:

• To construct and put ten PHEVs on the road by year 2009
• To evaluate vehicles and infrastructure under real circumstances
• To demonstrate what a simple customer-attractive total solution for plug-in hybrids would look like
• To contribute to increased acceptance and insight on the role plug-in hybrids can have to reach national and international climate goals, increase the safety for energy supplies and promote the future of Swedish competition in trade and industry.
• To contribute to research and development within the area through collaborations with, for example, SHC. The project is investigating the possibilities for SHC to be able to, from the data collected in this demonstration project, 1) evaluate batteries 2) analyze driving patterns 3) verify/calibrate simulationprograms for PHEV and HEV drivelines.

Financing. … Written by: Kenneth Samuelsson

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BOLD MOVES: THE FUTURE OF FORD Step behind the curtain at Ford Motor. Experience the documentary first-hand.

Original post by Sebastian Blanco

PHEVs will be a bit larger than this Volvo C30 PHEV concept

Saab and Volvo will partner on a pilot project to test 10 plug-in hybrid vehicles in Sweden according to GreenCarCongress. A number of other Swedish companies are also involved, such as ETC Battery, which will contribute lithium-ion batteries for the project.

Aside from trying to create a market for PHEVs in Sweden, the program will also “demonstrate what a simple, marketable, full solution for plug-in hybrids would look like”.

Original post by Dahcredyns

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Saab, Volvo, Green Daily

The Volvo ReCharge

Well, for this post we’re going to need to rely on our tipster, Stefan N. The link he sent is to a story in Norwegian (I think), a language I can’t read. Therefore it’s difficult for me to confirm any of what Stefan N. says (and Google Translate doesn’t have Norwegian). Still, what I hear the story says is that Volvo and Saab are collaborating on plug-in hybrids. “In brief, Volvo and Saab plan together with Vattenfall (electric supplier) and ETC (battery provider) to have 10 PHEV in traffic by 2009. The project has budget of 10 million US$,” he writes. I do see words like “Saab″ and ‘Volvo” and “plugin-bilprojekt” so it seems accurate. I’ve asked Stefan for more help, but does anyone else want to flesh out the details?

[Source: Miljorapporten, h/t to Stefan N.]

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BOLD MOVES: THE FUTURE OF FORD Step behind the curtain at Ford Motor. Experience the documentary first-hand.

Original post by Sebastian Blanco

Filed under: Saab, Legislation and Policy, Green Daily, European Union

Friends of the Earth Europe thinks that some of Saab’s latest ads are nothing but greenwashing, and has publicly warned the automaker to withdraw them or face legal challenge. FoEE instigated a summons (PDF) that was served to Saab’s office in Belgium and “calls on the company to remove all wording and imagery from its website and brochures which associate its cars with nature or the protection of the environment. It must also withdraw false claims that driving a Saab reduces CO2 emissions.” Another problem, FoEE says, is that Saab is not being clear about the CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption numbers of the BioPower engines, “which is a violation of Belgian and European law.” If Saab doesn’t meet the demands in eight days, FoEE “will file legal proceedings.”

Related:

• Detroit 2008: Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept
• ACEA and voluntary CO₂ notes in European car ads
• It’s Friday: Is Jeep’s “Rock Me Gently” ad greenwashing? o|||||||o
• Tell the FTC how to regulate green ads before the Jan. 25 deadline

[Source: Friends of the Earth Europe]

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BOLD MOVES: THE FUTURE OF FORD Step behind the curtain at Ford Motor. Experience the documentary first-hand.

Original post by Sebastian Blanco

Filed under: Ethanol, Flex-Fuel, Saab, AutoblogGreen Exclusive, Detroit Auto Show, Green Daily

This morning at the Detroit Auto Show, GM officially revealed the Saab 9-4X BioPower concept. This car was part of a glamorous press conference (gaudy, in fact, just like all the big automakers have here) that also introduced the Hummer HX concept and the GM-Coskata partnership (more on that, including an audio recording of the annoucment in a minute). This post is all about the live pics of the Saab.

The 9-4X BioPower concept is Saab’s first CUV and signals the brand’s expansion into other formats. As you can see in the many press releases after the jump, Saab partnered with Salomon for a place to stow your skis in the vehicle, but the green news here is the ethanol capability and the increased power the biofuel provides. I mean, the 9-4X BioPower gets 245 hp and 353 Nm of torque on gasoline versus 300 horses and 400 Nm on delicious yellow gold.

Saab 9-4X BioPower - Product overview:

Innovative Crossover Signals Saab Product Expansion

The Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept, revealed today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, confirms Saab’s plans to enter the growing Crossover segment with a dynamic, driver-focused vehicle inspired by Scandinavian values in design and respect for the environment.

The Concept’s progressive design features are combined with a responsible, fun-to-drive appeal based on BioPower engine technology and a cutting edge all-wheel-drive system. “This concept is a clear statement of what our brand is about,” said Saab Automobile Managing Director, Jan Åke Jonsson. “It is also an important next step in our plans to enter new market segments with distinctive product offerings.”

The design of the Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept reflects a Scandinavian principle of simplicity of form, with clean and uncluttered lines, free of any cladding, mouldings or roof bars, and defining ‘ice-block’ surface and lighting themes. The progressive frontal styling and interior design elements also draw inspiration from Saab’s widely-acclaimed Aero X concept. Innovative load-carrying solutions include a unique ski equipment stowage system, developed in co-operation with mountain sports specialists Salomon.

Optimized for bioethanol (E85) fuel, the four-cylinder, 2.0-liter BioPower turbo engine demonstrates Saab’s commitment to rightsizing by delivering an exceptional level of power efficiency - 300 hp and strong torque of 400 Nm (295 ft.lbs.). Compared with gasoline, driving on E85 produces less CO2 emissions (see separate Powertrain release). Mated to the industry-leading Saab XWD (’cross wheel drive’) system, this advanced powertrain promises to make driving to your destination as enjoyable as the adventure itself.

The Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept has been developed by a team under Anthony Lo, GME’s Director of Advanced Design, in co-operation with designers and engineers from the Saab Brand Center in Sweden. “We focused on incorporating design themes from the Aero X in a Crossover execution, adding functional, lifestyle features to support the activities of customers using this type of vehicle,” he said.

The driver-focused cockpit in the sporty, four-seater cabin features an Aero X-inspired ‘clear zone’, with a flush-mounted starter button and ‘infotainment’ controls, that sweeps up from the central console to the main display screen. Signature green lighting is used for all instrument illumination, while other subtle references to Saab’s aviation heritage include the ‘altimeter′ speed read-out scale and aircraft-shaped trim on the steering wheel. The panorama glass roof is in harmony with a car designed to deliver the enjoyment of outdoor pursuits.

Saab designers worked with top Saab Salomon ‘Big Mountain’ skiers to devise an innovative storage system for stowing skis and equipment inside the car (see separate Saab Salomon release). The rear cargo deck features a sliding floor with a fold-out aluminum ski-holder, through which up to three pairs of skis and poles can be slotted. Boots are stowed in an underfloor, heated compartment and, for maximum practicality, the entire rear cargo area is covered in a waterproof and scratch resistant rubber ’skin’.

The compact, aluminum, four cylinder BioPower engine combines the benefits of turbocharging, direct injection and variable valve timing for the first time with high-octane E85 fuel (85% bioethanol/ 15% gasoline).

Driver involvement is taken to a new level by the innovative all-wheel-drive system, Saab XWD. Active management splits torque delivery between both the axles and the rear wheels, via an electronically-controlled rear limited-slip differential (eLSD). Overall, Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept is a vivid demonstration of Saab’s commitment to customers with outdoor leisure interests who seek a sporty driving experience that is more in harmony with nature.

Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept - Powertrain

Rightsizing and Bioethanol for Responsible Performance

The Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept demonstrates the potential of ‘rightsizing’ by showcasing a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder turbo engine optimized for bioethanol (E85) fuel to give 300 hp and 400 Nm (295 ft.lbs.) of torque - an exceptional level of power efficiency.

Leveraging an unrivalled 30 years experience in turbo technology, Saab leads the automotive industry in exploiting the performance and environmental benefits of bioethanol fuel. Its current BioPower models are the top-selling flex-fuel vehicles in Europe, especially appreciated for offering both more power and producing less CO2 emissions when operating on E85 fuel compared to when fueled by only gasoline. In the future, E85 using bioethanol produced from cellulose has the potential to significantly reduce the CO2 emissions on a source-to-wheel basis compared to only using gasoline.

Now, with the announcement of the Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept, Saab takes the next step in the development of responsible performance by partnering, for the first time, its BioPower technology with all-wheel-drive (Saab XWD).

The lightweight, aluminum, four cylinder engine is optimized for E85 fuel (85% bioethanol, 15% gasoline) to give an exceptionally high specific power output of 150 hp per liter cylinder volume, together with an equally impressive 400 Nm (295 ft.lbs.) of torque (245 hp and 353 Nm (260 ft.lbs.) - on gasoline).

E85 has a higher octane rating than gasoline, making it more resistant to harmful pre-detonation, or ‘knocking’, when the fuel/air mixture is compressed in the cylinder. To fully exploit this advantage, the engine has a raised compression ratio, 10.5:1, instead of 9.2:1 for a gasoline-only application. It retains its flex-fuel capability because the Saab engine management system adjusts the ignition timing and turbo boost pressure to ensure there is no pre-detonation with gasoline.

Engine efficiency is also improved by the use of direct injection (DI) and continuously variable valve timing (VVT) on both the inlet and exhaust sides. DI delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber, providing a more efficient combustion of the fuel/air mixture to give more power and enhanced engine efficiency.

VVT enhances turbo response at low engine speeds, as well as contributing to an even wider spread of torque. On E85 fuel, that impressive 400 Nm (295 ft.lbs.) of torque is generated all the way from 2,600 to 5,100 rpm, with 85 % available from just 2,000 rpm. Whilst these headline figures may be matched by a much larger, naturally-aspirated engine, that characteristic ‘tidal wave’ of low-end torque is unique to the turbocharged power delivery.

The cutting edge all-wheel-drive system, Saab XWD, soon to be launched in the 9-3, is designed to optimize vehicle responsiveness and stability. It features active management that not only splits torque delivery between the axles, but also between the rear wheels via an electronically-controlled rear limited-slip differential (eLSD). This can transfer up to 40% of torque between the rear drive shafts, to whichever wheel has more grip. Such active drive torque management improves both cornering and stability by making the rear of the car more closely follow the direction of the front wheels.

Driving enjoyment can be further enhanced by the selection of ‘Sport’ or ‘Comfort’ modes as an alternative to the vehicle’s standard chassis settings. ‘Sport’ mode stiffens the action of the dampers for greater body and wheel control; sets the gearshift points of the automatic transmission at higher engine speeds for sportier driving; sends more torque to the rear axle for greater agility increases the sensitivity of the electronic throttle and, at higher speeds, reduces the power assistance to the steering, thereby increasing steering feel for the driver.

Responsible performance also means including advanced safety features. In addition to a full arsenal of electronic stability and braking systems, the Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept features roll-over sensing for deployment of the curtain airbags. The front seats are also fitted with new, Generation III Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR), including a revised head restraint movement to help reduce the risk of severe neck injury.

Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept - Interview with Jan Åke Jonsson

Saab Crossover To Lead New Product Offensive

Saab’s entry into the growing Crossover segment is a vital next step in an accelerating new product offensive that will see the Swedish premium brand represented in all major segments of the market, says Jan &Aringke Jonsson, Saab Automobile’s Managing Director.

Speaking at the launch of the innovative Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, he said: “This concept is more than a statement of our intent to enter the Crossover segment. It also represents our commitment to take the Saab brand to new customer groups, offering a premium alternative choice they have never had before.

“These are exciting times at Saab. We are a brand on the move, with a clear product growth strategy that will take global sales volumes to a new level.”

Jonsson points out that in the last five years alone, Saab has launched four new models and shown four concept cars, including the award-winning Aero X as a signpost for future Saab design. It has also introduced industry-leading BioPower flex-fuel engines with E85 and advanced all-wheel-drive technology (Saab XWD).

“While we have come a long way in the last five years, I can say that the next five years will see the rate of new product development accelerate,” he adds. “Our target is to have the Saab brand represented in all major segments of the market.

“For example, the global Crossover segment has trebled in size in the last seven years, but we have not been able to offer customers a Saab alternative. That will now change and the same will apply to other growing segments where we see potential for our brand.”

Jonsson points out that each new Saab product, like its upcoming Crossover vehicle, will draw inspiration from the brand’s strong Scandinavian roots in the areas of progressive design, driver focus and responsible performance with concern for the environment.

“Our brand values have never been more relevant than they are today,” he says. “Customers increasingly want premium vehicles that meet their particular lifestyle needs which are also sporty and environmentally responsible. It is our intention to offer them Saab products as a fresh and distinctive alternative choice.”

Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept - Saab Salomon cooperation

Saab and Salomon:
Partners in Automotive Design for Active Living

The Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept extends a long-standing partnership between Saab and Salomon. Both brands share a passion for progressive design and technical innovation, so it was a natural next step to take the relationship into the field of automotive design.

Leading Saab Salomon Big Mountain skiers, Kaj Zachrisson from Sweden and Frenchman Enak Gavaggio, took time out to meet the designers, telling them all about their activities and what sort of practical features they would most like to see in a car.

“It was fascinating talking to Kaj and Enak,” said Andrew Dyson, a senior member of the advanced design team. “They spend a lot of time outdoors in all sorts of conditions. Their cars and how they carry their equipment are an essential part of what they do. They came up with plenty of ideas and suggestions for us to work with.”

“They made it very clear that carrying valuable skis in a roof box was far from ideal. They were concerned about security and did not want to have to keep taking a box on and off the car. When the snow conditions are right, they need to move quickly and do not want to lose time kitting the car out.”

Dyson’s team devised a neat, easy-to-use means of stowing up to three pairs of skis and poles inside the car. For easy loading, the 9-4X BioPower Concept has a sliding rear floor, from which a sturdy, U-shaped aluminum frame can be folded out. Each leg of the frame carries a pair of clips, through which the skis and poles slot. They thread through the cabin, between the two rear seats, holding the skis firmly in place while also allowing passengers to sit in the rear.

Talking to the skiers, Dyson and the team realized that safe stowage for helmets would be another useful feature, so two expanding pouches, each designed to carry up to two helmets, are fixed either side of the load area. And a separate compartment under the sliding floor, large enough to accommodate up to three pairs of ski boots, was another feature appreciated by the skiers. The compartment, with a shelf for smaller items, is also heated via the car’s air conditioning system, which helps the kit to dry out and prevents wet boots becoming hard and stiff.

After a challenging day off-piste, a skier’s kit can become wet and grimy, so the entire rear cargo area, including the underfloor compartment and folding seat-backs, is covered in a waterproof, rubber ’skin’. A vent in the bottom of the underfloor compartment allows water the drain away and the rubber skin is easy to keep clean.

“It was a great opportunity to talk with Saab about designing such practical features ” said Kaj Zachrisson. “A car like this would be an active partner, just like the rest of my equipment, in helping me enjoy what I love to do.”

“Our co-operation with the skiers is a good example of how we can develop smart features to meet specific customer needs,” added Dyson. “It would be possible to have different design elements in a car to support a whole range of outdoor sports and activities.”

The Saab/Salmon partnership in mountain sports includes joint sponsorship of teams and events in multisport, mountain biking and free skiing. “Both brands share common values and customers who have an independent mind-set,” said Knut Simonsson, Saab’s Executive Director, Global Brand and Sales Operations.

“We′re passionate about the idea of progressive product design for improved performance that’s at one with nature. It was a logical next step for us to work together on this concept, showing how the car can become part of the adventure.”
Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept - Saab Salomon cooperation

Saab and Salomon:
Partners in Automotive Design for Active Living

The Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept extends a long-standing partnership between Saab and Salomon. Both brands share a passion for progressive design and technical innovation, so it was a natural next step to take the relationship into the field of automotive design.

Leading Saab Salomon Big Mountain skiers, Kaj Zachrisson from Sweden and Frenchman Enak Gavaggio, took time out to meet the designers, telling them all about their activities and what sort of practical features they would most like to see in a car.

“It was fascinating talking to Kaj and Enak,” said Andrew Dyson, a senior member of the advanced design team. “They spend a lot of time outdoors in all sorts of conditions. Their cars and how they carry their equipment are an essential part of what they do. They came up with plenty of ideas and suggestions for us to work with.”

“They made it very clear that carrying valuable skis in a roof box was far from ideal. They were concerned about security and did not want to have to keep taking a box on and off the car. When the snow conditions are right, they need to move quickly and do not want to lose time kitting the car out.”

Dyson’s team devised a neat, easy-to-use means of stowing up to three pairs of skis and poles inside the car. For easy loading, the 9-4X BioPower Concept has a sliding rear floor, from which a sturdy, U-shaped aluminum frame can be folded out. Each leg of the frame carries a pair of clips, through which the skis and poles slot. They thread through the cabin, between the two rear seats, holding the skis firmly in place while also allowing passengers to sit in the rear.

Talking to the skiers, Dyson and the team realized that safe stowage for helmets would be another useful feature, so two expanding pouches, each designed to carry up to two helmets, are fixed either side of the load area. And a separate compartment under the sliding floor, large enough to accommodate up to three pairs of ski boots, was another feature appreciated by the skiers. The compartment, with a shelf for smaller items, is also heated via the car’s air conditioning system, which helps the kit to dry out and prevents wet boots becoming hard and stiff.

After a challenging day off-piste, a skier’s kit can become wet and grimy, so the entire rear cargo area, including the underfloor compartment and folding seat-backs, is covered in a waterproof, rubber ’skin’. A vent in the bottom of the underfloor compartment allows water the drain away and the rubber skin is easy to keep clean.

“It was a great opportunity to talk with Saab about designing such practical features ” said Kaj Zachrisson. “A car like this would be an active partner, just like the rest of my equipment, in helping me enjoy what I love to do.”

“Our co-operation with the skiers is a good example of how we can develop smart features to meet specific customer needs,” added Dyson. “It would be possible to have different design elements in a car to support a whole range of outdoor sports and activities.”

The Saab/Salmon partnership in mountain sports includes joint sponsorship of teams and events in multisport, mountain biking and free skiing. “Both brands share common values and customers who have an independent mind-set,” said Knut Simonsson, Saab′s Executive Director, Global Brand and Sales Operations.

“We’re passionate about the idea of progressive product design for improved performance that’s at one with nature. It was a logical next step for us to work together on this concept, showing how the car can become part of the adventure.”

Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept Technical Specifications

BioPower Engine:
1998cc. Four cylinders Bore/stroke: 86.0/86.0 mm. Aluminum cylinder head and block. DOHC, chain-driven. Four valves per cylinder. Twin counter-rotating balancer shafts. Forged steel crankshaft, steel connecting rods. Aluminum pistons, oil spray cooled. Direct injection. VVT, inlet and exhaust Sodium-filled exhaust valves. Saab engine management system. Twin-scroll turbocharger, intercooled.

BioPower Engine data
Max. Boost Pressure at maximum torque: 1.2 bar
Compression Ratio: 10.5: 1
Max power (E85): 300 hp (221kW) @ 5400 rpm.
Max. torque (E85): 400Nm @ 2600-5100 rpm
Max power (gasoline): 245 hp (180 kW) @ 5300 rpm.
Max. torque (gasoline): 353 Nm @ 2500- 5250 rpm

Transmission:
Saab XWD (’cross wheel drive’), all-wheel-drive system. Electronic rear limited-slip differential (eLSD)
6-speed automatic transmission, steering wheel controls.

Suspension:
Front: McPherson struts. Aluminum control arm and knuckle. Anti-roll bar.
Rear: Multi-link. Aluminum H-arm and knuckle. Anti-roll bar.

Steering:
Rack and pinion, hydraulic power assistance.

Wheels, Tires:
21inch, 245/55 R21

Brakes:
Hydraulic, dual circuit, vacuum booster.
Discs front/rear: 378 mm / 378 mm (all ventilated)

Performance Data
(preliminary figures)

0 - 100 kph: 8.0 sec
0 - 60 mph: 7.9 sec
Top Speed: 235 kph (146 mph)
Fuel consumption (combined): 10.5 l/100km (22.4 mpg) on gasoline
C̘ 251 g/km on gasoline

 

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BOLD MOVES: THE FUTURE OF FORD Step behind the curtain at Ford Motor. Experience the documentary first-hand.

Original post by Sebastian Blanco

Filed under: Biodiesel, Ethanol, Flex-Fuel, Saab, Legislation and Policy

click for high-res gallery

A TV ad for Saab BioPower was yanked off the air in the UK for tying bioethanol to reduced carbon output. According to the UK’s Advertising Standards Agency, Saab’s “Release Me” commercial (watch it below the fold) incorrectly states that using bioethanol-capable cars reduces your carbon footprint. The ad said carbon is reduced thirty percent when you drive with bioethanol. Unfortunately for Saad, it’s closer to carbon neutral if you measure from seed to tail pipe. However misleading the ad campagn, I think the “more horsepower and a smaller carbon footprint″ idea is very compelling.

[Source: Telegraph via Crash.Net, AOL Lifestyle]

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Original post by Lascelles Linton

Filed under: Ethanol, GM, Saab, Geneva Motor Show

GM′s biofuel parade in Geneva marches on with GM vice chairman Bob Lutz and Mark Adams, vp of design of GM Europe, talk to the Newspress cameras about bioethanol and the new Saab 9-X BioHybrid. Lutz talks mostly about how ethanol is the best short-term way to use less gasoline. For those of you interested in why Mr. Crock of Sh*t’s would care about using less gas, he says that reducing CO₂ emissions is just as important as reducing oil imports from unfriendly countries. Speaking about the 9-X BioHybrid, Adams explains a bit about the concept’s aeronautic heritage (see the rear window) and talks a bit about the next-generation GM Hybrid system. Watch ‘em both after the jump.

[Source: Newspress]

 

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Original post by Sebastian Blanco

Filed under: Ethanol, Hybrid, Saab, Geneva Motor Show

When Saab debuted the 9-X BioHybrid concept at the recent Geneva Motor Show, aerodynamics was a big part of the equation. The compact 9-X has a smooth, rounded nose, a raked back wrap-around windshield and a downward sloping roof. To help reduce the drag at the back end of the short body, a spoiler that wraps around the roof extends backward up to four inches. A new video featuring some of the designers talking about the aero work that they did has just been posted on the GMnext web site. You can check out the video after the jump.

[Source: GMnext]

 

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Original post by Sam Abuelsamid

Filed under: Diesel, Saab, Pacific Region

The Astra isn’t the only GM model getting a new diesel option in Australia. The performance Aero model of the Saab 9-3 is now available with a 177hp 1.9L diesel. The 295lb-ft of torque is apparently enough to motivate the 9-3 Aero TTiD at similar rates to the gas engined version. The gas-fueled model however cannot approach the 41.3mpg (U.S.) rating of the manual transmission model. Even the automatic version achieves 34.6mpg (U.S.). The diesel in the Saab has the two-stage turbocharger setup with a smaller turbo for quick low speed response and a second larger unit for maximum power. Here in the U.S., the Aero with the 2.8L turbo V6 is rated at a mere 16/24mpg by the EPA. Even accounting for differences in test procedures, the diesel is clearly far more efficient than the V6. Unfortunately, here in the States we again don’t have this option.

[Source: Drive.com.au]

 

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Original post by Sam Abuelsamid