GENEVA — Saab describes its 9-X BioHybrid concept as a "vivid vision of what a future compact car from Saab could look like." But Saab executives have indicated that the 2008 Geneva Auto Show concept foreshadows the baby Saab 9-1X hatchback that is expected to debut in 2010.
In what may become a mantra for the Swedish automaker as gas prices continue to spike, the 9-X BioHybrid is said to embody "responsible performance."
Saab clearly states that the four-passenger 9-X BioHybrid, which is characterized by a longer roof line, takes its design cues from the Aero X and earlier 9-X concepts. When the production version debuts, it will be aimed squarely at the Volvo C30 and other European competitors. The concept is powered by a 200-horsepower 1.4-liter BioPower turbo engine "backed by GM's next-generation hybrid system." Its design was overseen by GM Europe's advanced design studio in cooperation with the Saab Brand Center in Sweden.
The Saab concept is one of the standouts in what is shaping up to be the greenest auto show yet in 2008. Saab says the 9-X BioHybrid "explores the potential for using active aerodynamics to reduce drag — and fuel consumption — at cruising speeds." Among the more notable design cues are a roof spoiler that automatically extends to further lengthen the roof line and an underbody diffuser, which is deployed from the bottom of the rear bumper at speeds above 43 mph. In addition, the concept features "smooth fuselage bodywork," which is stripped of visible door handles and door mirrors to further cut drag.
Other exterior design cues on the 9-X BioHybrid include "turbine" wheels and minimal overhangs.
The cabin of the 9-X BioHybrid also merits some scrutiny, since Saab says it "introduces an entirely new execution of Saab's driver-focused cockpit design.... The central, floor-mounted console, with its angled controls and displays, is now eliminated," said Saab in a statement. "Instead, the driver-focused layout incorporates a main instrument panel that sweeps out from the top of the door molding, arching across the driver. The embedded 3D graphics appear to be 'frozen' in ice, continuing a Scandinavian design theme first seen in the Aero X."
Saab hooked up with Sony Ericsson on the concept's wireless interface for streaming data, entertainment and satellite navigation systems. Other cabin details include an electrically powered slide-out cargo floor, which is activated when the bottom half of the split tailgate drops down. "High friction" rubber carpeting in the cargo hold is said to "grip" items.
"This car shows how our concept work can be carried forward into a compact format," said Anthony Lo, director of Advanced Design at General Motors Europe. "It has a number of features which we will be developing further, such as the new driver-focused design theme, the importance of clean, uncluttered surfaces and the easy, seamless connectivity inside the car."
What this means to you: A showstopper for Saab fans, but you make the call on whether "responsible performance" is an oxymoron. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
In what may become a mantra for the Swedish automaker as gas prices continue to spike, the 9-X BioHybrid is said to embody "responsible performance."
Saab clearly states that the four-passenger 9-X BioHybrid, which is characterized by a longer roof line, takes its design cues from the Aero X and earlier 9-X concepts. When the production version debuts, it will be aimed squarely at the Volvo C30 and other European competitors. The concept is powered by a 200-horsepower 1.4-liter BioPower turbo engine "backed by GM's next-generation hybrid system." Its design was overseen by GM Europe's advanced design studio in cooperation with the Saab Brand Center in Sweden.
The Saab concept is one of the standouts in what is shaping up to be the greenest auto show yet in 2008. Saab says the 9-X BioHybrid "explores the potential for using active aerodynamics to reduce drag — and fuel consumption — at cruising speeds." Among the more notable design cues are a roof spoiler that automatically extends to further lengthen the roof line and an underbody diffuser, which is deployed from the bottom of the rear bumper at speeds above 43 mph. In addition, the concept features "smooth fuselage bodywork," which is stripped of visible door handles and door mirrors to further cut drag.
Other exterior design cues on the 9-X BioHybrid include "turbine" wheels and minimal overhangs.
The cabin of the 9-X BioHybrid also merits some scrutiny, since Saab says it "introduces an entirely new execution of Saab's driver-focused cockpit design.... The central, floor-mounted console, with its angled controls and displays, is now eliminated," said Saab in a statement. "Instead, the driver-focused layout incorporates a main instrument panel that sweeps out from the top of the door molding, arching across the driver. The embedded 3D graphics appear to be 'frozen' in ice, continuing a Scandinavian design theme first seen in the Aero X."
Saab hooked up with Sony Ericsson on the concept's wireless interface for streaming data, entertainment and satellite navigation systems. Other cabin details include an electrically powered slide-out cargo floor, which is activated when the bottom half of the split tailgate drops down. "High friction" rubber carpeting in the cargo hold is said to "grip" items.
"This car shows how our concept work can be carried forward into a compact format," said Anthony Lo, director of Advanced Design at General Motors Europe. "It has a number of features which we will be developing further, such as the new driver-focused design theme, the importance of clean, uncluttered surfaces and the easy, seamless connectivity inside the car."
What this means to you: A showstopper for Saab fans, but you make the call on whether "responsible performance" is an oxymoron. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
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