Saab Rolls Out BioPower 100 Concept

DETROIT — When Saab unveils its BioPower 100 Concept at the Geneva auto show in March, it will be demonstrating how vehicles that run on bioethanol can still deliver a performance punch.

The Swedish automaker says the new concept "showcases the first production-based engine to be optimized for pure bioethanol (E100) fuel." Saab blends turbocharging and high-octane E100 in a 2.0-liter engine from the 9-5 to churn out 300 horses and 295 pound-feet of torque. The engine management system and internal components have been modified, allowing the use of greater boost pressure with a raised compression ratio. In effect, the concept has the power characteristics of a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter engine, Saab said.

Performance numbers are impressive. The BioPower 100 Concept sprints from zero to 62 mph in 6.6 seconds and 50-75 mph (5th gear) in 8.2 seconds.

Saab's latest concept is described as "an evolution of the Saab 9-5 SportCombi," with exterior and interior styling tweaks.

© Source: article on insideline
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