Ultra-efficient Saab named 'Best Concept' at Geneva show

Saab's latest concept car, the 9-X BioHybrid, clinched 'Best Concept' at the Geneva Motor Show last month.

With this award, the 9-X Bio Hybrid joins the very successful Saab Aero X concept which also received AutoWeek's 'Best in Show' honours at its debut in Geneva two years ago.

Anthony Lo, director of advanced design at General Motors Europe, spoke on behalf of the design team and the Saab brand centre in Sweden: "We are thrilled that our work has been recognised with this prestigious award.

"The 9-X Bio Hybrid is a vision of what a future compact car from Saab could look like. It is designed to reflect the priorities of youthful customers who seek progressive looks, responsive, sporty performance and high-tech communications, all in a fun-to-drive package."

Exploring design themes from Saab's Aero X and earlier 9X concepts, the 9-X Bio Hybrid also demonstrates the potential for ultra-efficient power from a 200 hp (147 kW), 1.4-litre Bio Power turbo engine backed by GM's next-generation hybrid system.

Projected combined-cycle CO2 emissions of just 105 g/km on E85 fuel (an alcohol fuel mixture that typically contains a mixture of up to 85 per cent denatured fuel ethanol and gasoline or other hydrocarbon) are testimony to the promise of this package.

For more information about the Saab range call at local representatives United Automobile, Abate Rigord Street, Ta' Xbiex (tel. 2132 0560; www.unitedautomobile.com.mt).