|
October 08,
2008
This Week:
© 1998 - 2008
Copyright &
Disclaimer
Automotive Intelligence,
www.autointell.com
All Rights Reserved .
For questions please contact
editor@autointell.net
|
|
Saab 9-X Air BioHybrid Concept
World Premiere at Paris Auto Show

Paris - The 9-X Air Concept is a
design vision exploring what a future open-air Saab could look
like. It features a unique ‘Canopy Top’ – patent pending - and
the close-coupled proportions of a sports car, as well as
four-seat accommodation.
In breaking the mould of
conventional convertible design, the bodywork of the 9-X Air
incorporates prominent rear pillars which curve upwards to mount
the flat folding Canopy Top. They also anchor a distinctive,
wraparound glasshouse, including a separate, recessed rear
screen.
Designer Anthony Lo and his team
have achieved this execution while still offering the four
season, four seater practicality pioneered by Saab when its
first convertible concept was premiered at the Frankfurt Show
exactly 25 years ago.
|
|
|
|
Top down or up, the 9-X Air cuts a
distinctive silhouette. With the canopy stowed away and the rear
screen up, occupants can enjoy open-top motoring free from
buffeting. Top up, the 9-X Air assumes the appearance of a true
coupé, with a cohesive design that eschews the looks of a
conventional, four-seater convertible. |
Designed in parallel with the Saab
9-X BioHybrid concept, the 9-X Air shares its distinctive
frontal styling, together with its highly efficient powertrain.
The small, 1.4-liter Saab BioPower engine combines a series of
steps for more responsible performance: engine rightsizing,
turbocharging, the use of biofuels and hybrid technology.

Running on E85 fuel (85%
bioethanol/ 15% gasoline), the engine delivers a sporty 200 hp
(147 kW), giving zero to 100 kph (62 mph) acceleration in 8.1
seconds and projected CO2 tailpipe emissions of just 107 g/km
over the combined cycle. Compared to gasoline, the overall
environmental impact on a source-to-wheel basis of using E85 is
even more beneficial.
Photos: Automotive
Intelligence/Saab
(October 4, 2008)
|