Saab 9-X BioHybrid voted “Specialty Concept Car of the Year“ at Dearborn Automotive Hall of Fame

26 June 2008

Mumbai: Presently in its 7th rendition, the annual Concept Car of the Year Awards recognises vehicles that are most likely to shape the future of the automobile industry. The jury comprising 25 North American automotive journalists picked out the winners from 40 concept cars and 12 production preview vehicles that made their North American debut during the 2008 auto show season.The event was held in Dearborn, Michigan.

Saab recently got labelled  ''Best Concept'' by AutoWeek Magazine after its world premiere at the Geneva auto show in March 2008.

The 9-X BioHybrid is a vivid vision of what a future compact car from Saab could look like. Designed by Advanced Design at General Motors Europe, in co-operation with the Saab Brand Centre in Sweden, the compact reflects the priorities of youthful customers who seek progressive looks, responsible performance and high-tech communications, all in a sporty, fun-to-drive package.

Exploring design themes from Saab's award-winning Aero X and earlier 9X concepts, the 9-X BioHybrid also demonstrates the potential for ultra-efficient power from a 200 hp (147 kW), 1.4-litre BioPower turbo engine backed by GM's next-generation hybrid system. Projected combined cycle CO2 emissions of just 105 g/km on E85 fuel are testimony to the promise of this package.

The interior sports an entirely new expression of Saab's driver-focused cockpit design, together with innovative, seamless connectivity for personal nomadic devices and a rear cargo deck with a 'low friction' loading system.

With its 'turbine' wheels placed at all four corners, minimal bodywork overhangs and an extended roof line, the proportions of the three-door Saab 9-X BioHybrid bring a dynamic, new dimension to conventional compact 'hatchback' looks.