AutoblogGreen

Saab to be saved by mystery Swedish electric car company

Zach Bowman — Thu, 24 May 2012 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Saab, Europe/EU

The all-but-lifeless corpse of Saab continues to stagger forward in hopes of finding a juicy investor to sink its teeth into. Autocar reports that National Electric Vehicle Sweden is currently close to buying the brand's remaining assets. The freshly minted electric car consortium is helmed by none other than Karl-Erling Trogen, the former head of Volvo Trucks. Beyond that, few details are known about the company or its plans for Saab. National Electric Sweden is owned by two bodies, Sun Investment and Mikael Kubu, the president of law firm Ac-Gruppen.

We can only speculate about what the consortium wants with Saab, though fan site SaabsUnited reports the company may have its eyes on an electric rear axle program developed with in conjunction with eAAM. Whether that means we'll see electric or hybrid Saab models whirring around in the future is still uncertain. If we did, it would probably take quite a while. As SaabsUnited notes, "Saab, the company, right now has nothing in it, no dealership network, no finance structure, no personnel-structure, no communications network, nothing... everything needs to be completely rebuilt from scratch, which will take a huge amount of time."

At this point, we'll just be pleasantly surprised if the Griffin brand gets a new owner at all.

Saab to be saved by mystery Swedish electric car company originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 24 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Will electric bid shock Saab back to life?

Domenick Yoney — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Saab, Europe/EU, Japan, China

The future of Saab could be electric! If it has a future, that is. The Swedish firm famously filed for bankruptcy last December and since then, the saga to save the company has turned into a struggle to revive it. One of the biggest obstacles, it seems, is General Motor's unwillingness to allow the technology it licensed to Trollhatten to be transferred to new owners. At least, new owners from China. Yes, it's a real sob (sorry about that) story.

Anywho... one of the current batch of bidders, an unnamed Chinese/Japanese consortium with "serious" money, is reported to have a made an aggressive offer that would see the company primarily producing electric vehicles. It's bid also includes plans for a new battery plant.

The concept of electric Saabs isn't entirely new. The company had been building a 70-strong test fleet of 9-3s - using UQM motors and Boston Power batteries - as recently as 10 months ago. Whether this bid will shock Saab back to life will remain unclear for the time being. All offers will be undergoing evaluation until at least the end of April.

Will electric bid shock Saab back to life? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Saab 9-3 ePower test fleet being assembled

Autoblog Staff — Wed, 25 May 2011 13:55:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Saab

Saab 9-3 ePower assembly - Click above for high-res image gallery

Despite Spyker's adventures in Chinese business negotiation, Saab is doing everything in its power to try and push forward. The 9-4X is reportedly the only Saab vehicle currently being produced, but it seems another is also coming to life. A fleet of Saab 9-3 ePower electric wagons are being put together for testing.

Hand-assembled in a room just off the main assembly line, the 9-3 ePower is Saab's first all-electric vehicle, and the automaker will be establishing a test fleet of 70 vehicles. The battery system is said to be good for a 124-mile range with a top speed of around 90 miles per hour. Fleet testing is scheduled to begin later this year.

[Source: Saab]

Saab 9-3 ePower test fleet being assembled originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 25 May 2011 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Saab's financial struggles put fate of electric 9-3 ePower in jeopardy

Eric Loveday — Tue, 17 May 2011 12:59:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Saab

Saab 9-3 ePower prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

Saab's deal with Chinese manufacturer Hawtai Motor Group, announced on May 3rd, would have brought at least 120 million euros ($171 million U.S. at the current exchange rate) to the ailing Swedish automaker. The deal, however, crumbled, leaving Saab's future - as well as the fate of the firm's electric 9-3 ePower - in jeopardy.

Saab, along with Boston-Power, a Massachusetts-based lithium-ion battery manufacturer headed by Christina Lampe-Onnerud, were in the midst of wheeling out a 70-vehicle test fleet of ePowers when the Swedish automaker's financial struggles came to light. So, how will the collapsed deal with Hawtai and Saab's just-announced tie up with China's Pang Da affect the ePower?

For a hazy answer to that question, we turn to an article written by Jim Motavalli for the New York Times. Lampe-Onnerud, in a telephone interview conducted before the Hawtai deal fell apart, told Motavalli that:

Saab's financial situation hasn't affected the electric car program at all. Both companies are determined to bring a really great electric vehicle, with high-performance batteries to the market, as soon as possible.

However, Michele Tinson, a spokeswoman for Saab, told Motavalli that if, and only if, the automaker secures financing, will the electric vehicle project move forward.

Gallery: Saab 9-3 ePower

[Source: New York Times]

Saab's financial struggles put fate of electric 9-3 ePower in jeopardy originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 17 May 2011 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: diesel-powered Saab 9-4X unlikely

Eric Loveday — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 14:08:00 EST

Filed under: Diesel, Saab, Europe/EU, USA

2012 Saab 9-4X - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2012 Saab 9-4X is set to hit dealerships across the country in May. The cost of entry for the Scandinavian crossover will be $34,205 (including $825 in destination charges).

For $35K, you get a base 9-4X with front-wheel drive and a 3.0-liter direct-injected V6, which returns approximately 20 miles per gallon (combined). The range-topping 9-4X Aero, priced at $48,835, uses a General Motors-derived 2.8-liter turbocharged V6. That engine gets an estimated 18 mpg combined.

Then there's the diesel-engined 9-4X, the most fuel-efficient model in the crossover's lineup. Wait, what's that? You say there won't be a diesel-fueled 9-4X? Truth is, no oil-burning 9-4X exists. Not even in Europe.

Anders Svennson, Saab's vehicle line executive, told Ward's Auto that the automaker's conservative sales target for the 9-4X makes fitting it with a diesel engine cost prohibitive. Svennson admits that selling a diesel 9-4X in markets like Europe and Asia, as the automaker does with the 9-5 and 9-3 models, could raise the CUVs sales forecast of 12,500 units globally "several times." Apparently, even that's not enough to convince the Swedish automaker - which suffered a near-death experience in 2010 - to green-light an oil-burning 9-4X. Hopefully, other automakers won't cut out the diesel engine option because it's, um, cost prohibitive.

[Source: Ward's Auto]

Report: diesel-powered Saab 9-4X unlikely originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 14:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva 2011: Saab PhoeniX Concept previews a new Swedish shape

Autoblog Staff — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 08:04:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Saab, Geneva Motor Show

Saab PhoeniX Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's been about one year since Saab and General Motors parted ways, and the automaker is hellbent on showing the world what it's capable of creating on its own means. In addition to an Independence Edition of the 9-3 Convertible, Saab is showing off a major concept for the brand at this year's Geneva show - a design that will preview the future face of the automaker, penned by famed designer Jason Castriota. In case you haven't been paying attention, Castriota has created such pretty creations as the Ferrari P4/5 by Pininfarina and Bertone Mantide.

Castriota's latest creation, the Saab PhoeniX, is a sleek hatchback concept that uses the automaker's new 'aeromotional' design language. Saab describes this as "a visual evocation of the aerodynamic design principles and passion for innovation that inspired the creators of Saab's first car, the iconic Ursaab." Long story short - absolute gorgeousness. The concept uses butterfly doors that reveal a two-plus-two seating arrangement, and the modern interpretation of the Saab teardrop shape is seriously attractive.

Under the shapely metal is Saab's 200-horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four mated to some electric rear wheel drive technology to form the automaker's XWD all-wheel-drive system. Inside, the PhoeniX uses the new Saab IQon infotainment platform that uses the Google Android operating system. The car itself may be totally conceptual, but we'll see IQon make its way into Saab products in the coming years (stay tuned for more details).

Follow the jump for Saab's full press release, and see the sleek new PhoeniX concept in high-res glory in the image galleries below.

Live photos copyright (C)2011 Steven J. Ewing / AOL

[Source: Saab]

Continue reading Geneva 2011: Saab PhoeniX Concept previews a new Swedish shape

Geneva 2011: Saab PhoeniX Concept previews a new Swedish shape originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Saab 9-3 ePower utilizes 135 kW UQM PowerPhase electric motor

Eric Loveday — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 14:04:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Saab

Saab 9-3 ePower prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

When Saab unveiled its first-ever battery-powered vehicle, the 9-3 ePower, we enthusiastically claimed:

With a projected range of 125 miles and a 0-60 mile per hour acceleration time of less than 8.5 seconds, Saab's first-ever electric vehicle, the 9-3 ePower, brings the automaker into the battery-powered mix with authority. Based on the 9-3 Sport Combi wagon, the Saab 9-3 ePower's cargo-hauling abilities offer versatility that's typically absent in the battery-powered segment.

Part of the ePower's impressive performance can be attributed to its use of Boston-Power's robust Swing 4400 lithium-ion battery cells, but the use of UQM Technologies' 135-kW PowerPhase electric motor reinforces Saab's projected performance specs. The 135-kW (181 horsepower) unit is based on the lesser 100 kW PowerPhase motor, which spins the wheels of the Coda Sedan. With more grunt flowing from its electric motor, we'd expect the 9-3 ePower to crank out some stellar (for a battery-powered vehicle) performance numbers and, according to Saab's testing, it has.

Two-year trials of 70 9-3 ePowers will begin in Sweden late this year. Saab intends to turn the knowledge it gains from on-road testing and evaluation into a high-performance, production electric vehicle.

Gallery: Saab 9-3 ePower

[Source: UQM Technologies]

Continue reading Saab 9-3 ePower utilizes 135 kW UQM PowerPhase electric motor

Saab 9-3 ePower utilizes 135 kW UQM PowerPhase electric motor originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Saab at work on diesel hybrid?

Autoblog Staff — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 12:51:00 EST

Filed under: Diesel, Hybrid, Saab

A reporter from Sweden's Automobil was returning a Saab 9-5 to the factory in Trollhatten when he stopped at a gas station to fill the tank. And what there did he spy with his little eye? A 9-3 Sedan being pulled up to the pumps, and in the back of that 9-3 was a trunk full of batteries. When the car was started, he realized that in the front of that 9-3 was a diesel engine. This has all led to speculation that Saab has picked up its previous work on a diesel hybrid engine.

Three years ago, in November 2007, some scribes visiting the same factory got an engineer to admit that General Motors and Saab were working on a diesel hybrid. The engineer said that, "We will get everything to work together. With the next generation of hybrid we can lower the fuel consumption up to 40 percent. This is possible with the use of more electricity." Peugeot has a diesel through-the-road hybrid coming in early 2011, the 3008 Hybrid4. Would that Saab could get in front of that wave and reap the benefits instead of playing catch up.

[Source: Automobil via Saab's United]

Saab at work on diesel hybrid? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 29 Oct 2010 12:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Saab enters joint venture e-AAM to get "innovative" electric AWD systems for next-gen vehicles

Sebastian Blanco — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 16:01:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Saab

Fresh off Saab's unveiling of its first-ever electric vehicle, the 9-3 ePower, Saab and American Axle Manufacturing are announcing today they have formed a new joint venture called e-AAM Driveline Systems that will develop electric and hybrid driveline systems. Headquartered, like Saab, in Trollhattan, Sweden, the new JV will engineer and develop, "innovative electric all-wheel drive systems, as well as electric and hybrid driveline systems," that will then be sold to its client, Saab. These systems are apparently destined for real-world use, as Saab says that the components will, "be used in next-generation Saab vehicles from 2012" and are being designed for easy integration into already-existing vehicle platforms.

Saab has been working on hybrid powertrains for a while. The 9-3 ePower will get its battery pack from Boston-Power, but there is no mention of that company in the release announcing e-AAM Driveline Systems. The JV officially gets going October 1.

[Source: Saab Cars North America]

Continue reading Saab enters joint venture e-AAM to get "innovative" electric AWD systems for next-gen vehicles

Saab enters joint venture e-AAM to get "innovative" electric AWD systems for next-gen vehicles originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Saab 9-3 ePower gets its punch from Boston-Power's rugged Swing cells

Eric Loveday — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 08:04:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Saab, Green Daily

Saab ePower EV Prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

When Saab unveiled its first-ever electric vehicle (EV), the 9-3 ePower, we ecstatically claimed:

With a projected range of 125 miles and a 0-60 mile per hour acceleration time of less than 8.5 seconds, Saab's first-ever electric vehicle, the 9-3 ePower, brings the automaker into the battery-powered mix with authority. Based on the 9-3 Sport Combi wagon, the Saab 9-3 ePower's cargo-hauling abilities offer versatility that's typically absent in the battery-powered segment.

Unfortunately, we had to close that article with the words of Saab chief executive officer, Jan Ake Jonsson, who was prodded about a target release date for Saab's first EV and responded with:

Everybody is looking at that question. Nobody has an answer. It will take some time.

Now, some new info suggests that the ePower could be production-ready sooner than first thought. That is, provided that Saab gives it the green light. Boston-Power, supplier of the ePower's battery pack, revealed that its Swing 4400 cells provides the punch for Saab's EV. The Swing cells are not Saab-specific and are already available at a mass-production level.

The Swing cell utilizes cobalt and manganese on the cathode with graphite on the anode and is based on an oval-shaped prismatic cell design. The external dimensions are nearly equivalent to two 18650 lithium-ion cells, but testing has proven that the Swing 4400 cells are quite robust and Boston-Power claims that the cell specs include:

Energy density of 180Wh/kg
Volumetric density of 420Wh/L
1,000+ cycles at 100% Depth Of Discharge (DOD)
2,000+ cycles at 90% DOD
Constant power of 440W/kg
Pulse power of 1,500 W/kg (2s pulse)

If Saab gives the nod to the 9-3 ePower, then Boston-Power will be ready to deliver. So, let's hope that showgoers in Paris drool over the model and urge the automaker to give it a go.

Gallery: Saab 9-3 ePower

[Source: Green Car Congress]

Saab 9-3 ePower gets its punch from Boston-Power's rugged Swing cells originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Paris Preview: Saab to debut 9-3 ePower electric vehicle

Eric Loveday — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Saab, Paris Motor Show

Saab ePower EV Prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

With a projected range of 125 miles and a 0-60 mile per hour acceleration time of less than 8.5 seconds, Saab's first-ever electric vehicle, the 9-3 ePower, brings the automaker into the battery-powered mix with authority. Based on the 9-3 Sport Combi wagon, the Saab 9-3 ePower's cargo-hauling abilities offer versatility that's typically absent in the battery-powered segment.

The 9-3 ePower packs a 35.5kWh lithium-ion battery pack developed by Boston-Power and an electric propulsion system developed by Sweden's Electroengine. The electric goodies come together to output 184-horsepower through a single-speed transmission that propels the ePower to a top speed of 93 mph. This prototype features an electro-hydraulic steering and electrically driven A/C setup. The ePower will make its public debut at the Paris Motor Show later this month and is set to undergo fleet testing next year in Sweden.

Saab chief executive officer, Jan Ake Jonsson, outlined the importance of the ePower program in this way:

By 2015, annual global sales of electric vehicles are expected to reach 500,000 units, and Saab is determined to be represented in this important, growing segment. The 9-3 ePower program is our first step towards developing a potential production vehicle that will deliver the sort of advanced performance our customers expect.

But remember, the last time that Jonsson was prodded about a target release date for Saab's mass-produced EV, he stated, "Everybody is looking at that question. Nobody has an answer. It will take some time."

So, don't expect to see the ePower in showrooms anytime soon. It could be 2016 before Saab readies something of the electric variety for the public. Hit the jump for more info on Saab's first-ever EV. Hat tip to Josh!

Gallery: Saab 9-3 ePower

[Source: Saab]

Continue reading Paris Preview: Saab to debut 9-3 ePower electric vehicle

Paris Preview: Saab to debut 9-3 ePower electric vehicle originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 17 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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All-electric Saab 9-3 test fleet to launch in early 2011

Eric Loveday — Sat, 31 Jul 2010 08:42:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Saab, Green Daily

Saab 9-3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

During a media launch for the 2011 Saab 9-5, company executives revealed plans to introduce a test fleet of electric vehicles (EVs) based on the upcoming 9-3. As Inside Line reports, Saab execs confirmed that the test fleet of EVs will roll out in early 2011 and will be deployed at various locations across the globe, including Saab's hometown of Trollhattan, Sweden.

Saab's "100 percent electric vehicle" test fleet is a joint effort between the automaker, lithium-ion battery producer Boston-Power, electric propulsion systems manufacturer Electroengine and the Swedish Energy Authority. Saab Automobile AB managing director Jan Ake Jonsson said:

The main purpose is to draw technology from this test fleet, technology that we can then incorporate quickly. The key target short-term is to drive fuel consumption down. You can electrify certain portions of the vehicle.

When prodded about a target release date for a mass-production EV, Jonsson ducked out by stating:

Everybody is looking at that question. Nobody has an answer. It will take some time.

Without official word from Jonsson, we'll have to fall back on the previous comments of Saab's chief executive officer Victor Muller, who suggested that 2016 is the year the company will go for electrification.

Gallery-3856%
[Source: Inside Line]

All-electric Saab 9-3 test fleet to launch in early 2011 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 31 Jul 2010 08:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Saab looks to BMW for supermini 92 sucessor

Eric Loveday — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 18:09:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, MPG, BMW, Saab, Green Daily, Lightweight

We've brought you reports on the Saab 92 supermini project before, which you can read here and here. The brief overview goes like this: Saab is reportedly working on a successor to the company's original 92, pictured above. The vehicle will slot in below the company's 9-3 in terms of both price and size. Saab's chairman Victor Muller noted that a hybrid will be part of the plans and we should expect to see the 92 sometime in 2013 or 2014. That is, if it gets the green light from the company and if a partner is found. That brings you up to date, but the latest news pouring in now suggests that Saab is in talks with BMW to partner on the 92 project.

According to the report from Swedish daily Dagens Industri, Saab and BMW have made contact and are openly discussing a partnership on the 92 project with a formal meeting scheduled for the end of this month. The report suggests that the Saab 92 could be built on BMW's Mini platform. Reuters contacted both BMW and Saab for comment on the matter. A BMW spokesman replied with:

We are in talks with several interested parties who have interest in our technology. There are no contracts with Saab at the moment.

And a Saab spokesman answered with similar restraint, stating that the company is looking for "possible partners" but did not indicate that any discussions took place with BMW. Furthermore, the spokesman for Saab added:

We are concentrating on the 9-5 and the 9-4X. A smaller Saab below the 9-3 is not in our business plan though it would be on our wish list.

The denials are pretty standard stuff and in no way should this lead you to believe that Saab and BMW don't have something going on. In reality, a deal could be inked in days, despite both automakers denying any discussions. We'll bring you an update on the possible Saab-BMW partnership as soon as we hear more.

[Source: Reuters]

Report: Saab looks to BMW for supermini 92 sucessor originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 18:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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If it arrives, Saab 92 supermini will have hybrid option, cost "Mini plus 10 percent"

Eric Loveday — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 18:58:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, MPG, Saab, Green Daily, Lightweight

Saab 92 - 1949 model debut

Saab's been hard at work hyping the company's possible 92 supermini. Just a few days ago, we brought you the initial story where Saab chief executive officer Victor Muller talked about the 92 as a "super-cool" supermini that draws cues from the company's historic past. Now, a bunch of new details are emerging from the Saab camp.

Here's the latest info coming down the pipeline. The decision to green light the 92 will be made within the next 100 days. If the 92 gets the go, a hybrid model will definitely be available. The design for the 92 is all but finalized, as are the specs and dimensions of the vehicle, though Saab's keeping this info under wraps. As Muller tells Autocar, the company targets 30,000 to 60,000 units per year at a price of "Mini plus 10 percent" with a release date of late 2013 or early 2014. Of course, all of this hinges on whether or not the vehicle gets the go-ahead from Saab, a decision that partially depends on the company's ability to find a partner for the 92 project. 100 days doesn't leave much time, but we're hoping a partner steps in and Saab gives the nod to the 92.

[Source: Autocar | Image: Jlord - C.C. License 2.0]

If it arrives, Saab 92 supermini will have hybrid option, cost "Mini plus 10 percent" originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 08 Jun 2010 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Saab seeks partner for supermini 92 successor, debut expected in 2013

Eric Loveday — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 16:02:00 EST

Filed under: MPG, Saab, Green Daily, Lightweight

1955 Saab 93B

Saab has been quietly working on a spiritual successor to the lovable, classic Saab 92 which was launched over 60 years ago. Earlier this year, Saab chief executive officer Victor Muller announced that the 92 successor would be a "super-cool" supermini that draws cues from the company's historic past while remaining thoroughly modern throughout. Muller credits Mini with this new retro idea and says that the 92 successor was inspired by the Mini's modern recreation of the Issigonis original.

All right, with the background covered, here's where the 92 project stands now: Saab is currently in discussions with several other manufacturers to find a party interested in working together on the new small car platform. As Muller said, "Discussions are already ongoing [with other manufacturers]. That will be on my plate for the next 100 days" Muller added that the project is well underway and he "works with Saab designers every day" and carrys the latest renderings of the 92 project with him on trips across the globe. Even if Saab secures a partner soon, the 92 successor is unlikely to come to market any sooner than 2013.

Back in 2008, General Motors created a list of the top ten vehicles of all time. The original Saab 92 (later replaced by the 93 pictured above) topped that list so our expectations are high and we hope that the successor is every bit as good as the original.

[Source: Autocar | Image: Liftarn - C.C. License 2.0]

Saab seeks partner for supermini 92 successor, debut expected in 2013 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 03 Jun 2010 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Upscale small cars face hard times against hybrid rivals

Eric Loveday — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:01:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, MPG, MINI, Saab, Volkswagen, Green Daily, Lightweight

2010 Volkswagen Golf - Click above for high-res image gallery

Producers of upscale small cars such as the Volkswagen Golf, Mazda3 and Volvo C30 face stiff competition from hybrid vehicles for reasons unrelated to fuel mileage. Upscale cars are priced at the top end of their individual segment and are purchased by those interested in more than just a point A to point B car. These vehicles cater to those attempting to stand out or those interested in something different.

These little runabouts are now faced with overcoming more than just traditional competitors. They are also fighting for sales with an unexpected entrant, the hybrid. In this example, the hybrid is not purchased for fuel efficiency alone, but as a symbolic message of the purchaser's greenness, or an object with bragging rights or for its exclusivity. The buyer expects others to notice that their vehicle is more than just basic transportation.

In the price range of a typically equipped Golf, you will find the Prius, a strong competitor. VW acknowledges the competition with Toyota and suggests that its vehicles offer a more emotionally involved experience and carry a stylish appeal absent with many of Toyota's products. Just in case you don't agree, VW offers the TDI engine option that returns hybrid-like gas mileage complete with green appeal and comparative rarity.

Differentiating yourself from the crowded market of upscale small cars is difficult but necessary for strong sales. As more compact hybrids enter the market, competition will become stiffer and segment leaders will face a new battle for the top spot.

Gallery: 2010 Volkswagen Golf

[Source: Ward's Auto - sub. req.]

Upscale small cars face hard times against hybrid rivals originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Coalition debuts all-electric ZE Saab 9-3

Domenick Yoney — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 16:03:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Saab, Europe/EU

ZE Saab 9-3 - Click above to view the video after the jump

While some may already be writing obituaries in anticipation of Saab's demise (it has two weeks to live if Spyker doesn't buy it), the troubled Swedish automaker seems to be busy keeping up appearances, unveiling an all-electric version of its 9-3 convertible and announcing plans to build over 100 more. As part of a coalition of companies on the receiving end of $12 million from the Swedish Energy Agency, the company says its high performance ZE Saab 9-3 will be leased to companies and individuals in cities across Sweden, with one example coming stateside to the Boston area.

Although it remains to be seen how many of the vehicles will actually be built, the tech beneath the bodywork is quite impressive. Developed by Electro Engine, the drivetrain has twin electric motors capable of producing 335 hp which can take the front-wheel drive to 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds. Top speed is about 112 mph (180 km/h). The original spec sheet for the car claims a 26 kWh battery good for over 93 miles (150 km) but this version may have a different pack. The other high-tech partner involved in the project is battery-maker Boston Power, whose advanced cells could give the machine the 155 - 186 mile (250 - 300 km) range being quoted in the Swedish press. If the worst happens and Saab is unable to fulfill its part of the plan, we hope another platform can be adopted. The vehicle is the first application of the Boston Power's Swing battery and we've been super-curious to see how its impressive specs (PDF) translate to the real world. Hit the jump for a brief press release and a demonstration of the first, and possibly last, electric Saab. Thanks to Björn for the tip!

[Source: Innovatum Technology Park / SVT]

Continue reading Coalition debuts all-electric ZE Saab 9-3

Coalition debuts all-electric ZE Saab 9-3 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Koenigsegg developing pneumatic engine technology and hydraulic hybrid powertrains

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 19:34:00 EST

Filed under: Emerging Technologies, Hybrid, Saab

Saab 9-X Air concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ever since Koenigsegg emerged as the chosen buyer for fellow Swedish automaker Saab, rumors of a number of eco-friendly automobiles from the two automakers have been making the rounds. In addition to a production version of Koenigsegg's electric Quant concept from this year's Geneva Motor Show, we've also heard that Saab is hard at work developing a hybrid version of its latest 9-5 sedan.

In an interview with Auto Motor & Sport, Christian Von Koenigsegg has revealed that both the automaker that bears his name and the recently-purchased Saab are both working on pneumatic valve technology from Cargines that could potentially offer a fuel savings of 20 to 30 percent. Further, Koenigsegg believes combining that system with a hydraulic hybrid powertrain could potentially result in a 90-percent reduction in total energy consumption and allow the automaker to build a performance-minded hybrid automobile.

Gallery: Saab 9-X Air

[Source: Auto Motor & Sport]

REPORT: Koenigsegg developing pneumatic engine technology and hydraulic hybrid powertrains originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 19:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Saab developing hybrid powertrain for upcoming 9-5

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 16:03:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Saab

2010 Saab 9-5 sedan - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've already heard about the five engine options slated for the Saab 9-5 upon its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next week. Apparently, there's plenty more on the horizon in the coming years, including Saab's first production hybrid powertrain. According to Autocar, the hybrid system will match diesel fuel economy numbers while providing lower emissions and competitive performance.

It seems Saab will pair an electric motor with excellent torque characteristics right from idle with a highly-tuned 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that puts out 120 horsepower. That gasoline-fed powerplant should be able to manage good power at higher engine speeds, making for adequate overall acceleration across the rev range.

If there's any truth to this rumor, Saab is planning to use a relatively small battery pack that's not expected to power the car for long periods of time. Pricing information isn't yet known, but the Swedish automaker is said to want to undercut upcoming hybrids from its German competition.

Gallery: Saab 9-5 Sedan

[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Saab developing hybrid powertrain for upcoming 9-5 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Frankfurt Preview: Saab 9-5 wil come with five engine options

Sebastian Blanco — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 14:55:00 EST

Filed under: Diesel, Ethanol, Saab, Frankfurt Motor Show

New Saab 9-5 sedan - Click above for hi-res image gallery

The new Saab 9-5 sedan that's coming to the Frankfurt Motor Show in a few weeks features a lot of snazzy interior upgrades - heads-up display, adaptive cruise control and lighting and tri-zone air conditioning, to name just three - but will also be offered with a range of engine options to fit every type of Saab buyer. The powerplants include: 2.0-liter gasoline, 2.0-liter BioPower, 2.0-liter turbo diesel, 2.8-liter V6 turbo and a 1.6-liter gasoline turbo engine. The 2.0 diesel engine emits the least amount of CO₂, as low as 139 grams per kilometer. That BioPower engine will be able to burn E85 and all five engines will be mated to a six-speed transmissions. Stylewise, the new 9-5 takes some cues from the Aero X concept. The new 9-5 goes on sale next year.

More info after the jump.

Gallery: Saab 9-5 Sedan

[Source: GM]

Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Saab 9-5 wil come with five engine options

Frankfurt Preview: Saab 9-5 wil come with five engine options originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 29 Aug 2009 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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