2008 New York Auto Show: Saab

General Motors is committing more resources to developing products that can run on E85 ethanol-blended fuel. Saab in particular is having success in promoting such vehicles in its Swedish home market. This GM division is looking to further raise awareness of this alternative fuel in the United States by showing off the 9-X BioHybrid Concept at the 2008 New York Auto Show.

CG Says...
E85 is a hit in Sweden, not so much here in the States. The BioHybrid has a chance to change the thinking about this alternative fuel. It has the potential to be both fun and earth friendly. It may eventually be cost-effective, too, and we'll see a version of the BioHybrid in the not-too-distant future.

First shown to the world at the 2008 Geneva Auto Show, the Saab 9-X BioHybrid Concept is a tale of two propulsion systems. One is this compact hatchback's internal combustion engine: a turbocharged 1.4-liter 4-cylinder optimized to run on E85 ethanol. That fuel's higher octane rating allows it to produce 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. Using traditional gasoline drops the power output to 170 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque.

The other part of what makes the BioHybrid go is its electric power assist. Consider it an updated version of the battery-powered electric motors that are used in the Saturn Aura Green Line midsize sedan. The hybrid system shuts down the gasoline engine when the vehicle is decelerating and at a stop. It also provides a power boost to supplement the gas engine.

A large solar cell on the BioHybrid's roof captures the sun's energy to further recharge the battery pack. Power gets to the pavement via a 6-speed automated manual transmission. On E85, Saab pegs the BioHybrid's 0-60 mph acceleration time at 7.9 seconds. Estimated fuel economy, using the European city/highway model, is 37 mpg on E85 and 48 mpg on gas.