Saab’s 9-3 Biopower convertible hybrid concept is hailed as the first fossil fuel free hybrid. The car uses pure bioethanol E100 together with 300V Li-ion battery power, but retains flex fuel capability: the car can still run on gasoline.

Saab has further developed its 2 litre biopower engine to extract maximum advantage from E100’s octane rating to produce 260 bhp (194 kw) and 375 Nm torque.

A new direct injection system dubbed SIDI is used, to counter the cold start problems associated with bioethanol; alcohol fuels have a lower vapour pressure than gasoline.



Power is fed through the dual mode hybrid system developed by BMW, Daimler Chrysler and GM, as reported in the May issue of Automotive Engineer. The system features an electric continuously variable transmission (ECVT) and two 75 bhp (56 kw) motor/generators. A rear drive unit features a 55 bhp (41 kw) motor/generator, giving the car electric four wheel capability.

Jan-Åke Jonsson, managing director, Saab automobiles, said: “This concept allows us to evaluate and explore the potential of hybrid technology in combination with Biopower. As part of this process, we are now developing our expertise further by the two-mode hybrid technology. It shows how we can continue to express the sporty performance associated with Saab while using renewable resources and saving energy overall.”

A switch allows the car to be driven on electric power only at speeds below 31mph (50 km/h) – “city mode” – giving a range between 6 and 12 miles (10-20 km), depending on driving conditions.

Projected performance figures suggest acceleration from 0-62mph (0-100 km/h) in 6.8s, with top speed limited to 155mph (250 km/h).