Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept. Click image to enlarge |
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Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept
Detroit, Michigan - Described by Saab as a "driver-focused vehicle inspired by Scandinavian design values and respect for the environment," the 9-4X BioPower Concept crossover is targeted at drivers with an environmental conscience.
"This concept is a clear statement of what our brand is about," said Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab Automobile Managing Director. "It is also an important next step in our plans to enter new market segments with distinctive product offerings."
The Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept was developed by a team headed by Anthony Lo, GM Europe's Director of Advanced Design, in cooperation 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," Lo 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. 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.
Saab designers worked with top Saab Salomon Big Mountain skiers to devise an innovative storage system for stowing skis and equipment inside the car. 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 9-4X BioPower's compact, all-aluminum, 2.0-litre four-cylinder BioPower engine combines the benefits of turbocharging, direct injection and variable valve timing with high-octane E85 fuel (85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline). The engine produces 300 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque while offering combined fuel consumption of just 10.5 L /100 km (27 mpg Imp.) and producing less CO2 than a comparable gasoline engine. For improved traction and performance, the 9-4X includes Saab's XWD (cross-wheel drive) that automatically splits torque delivery between both the axles and the rear wheels via an electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential (eLSD).
