Saab Automobile AB, better known as Saab, revealed its new major concept for the brand at this year’s Geneva show. The Phoenix concept is a design that will preview the future face of the automaker, penned by famed designer Jason Castriota. Saab’s intriguing Phoenix concept is an all-wheel-drive gasoline-electric hybrid that previews some of the styling cues and technology that are expected to grace next year’s Saab 9-3 replacement.
Castriota’s latest creation 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.”
The teardrop-shaped Phoenix sports such design curiosities as butterfly-type doors, a scooped-out back tail and roof-mounted “winglets” said to channel airflow and reduce lift. These butterfly doors open to reveal 2+2 seating. There are no exterior mirrors or door handles, which helps to cut wind noise and resistance.
The instrument panel is fitted with Saab’s IQon car communication setup, which runs the Google Android operating system used by smartphones. Saab says IQon connects to the internet whenever the car is started.
Under the bonnet there’s a highly efficient, turbocharged 1.6-liter petrol engine. This alone produces 200bhp, powering just the front wheels – another long-standing Saab tradition. The clever bit comes in when you step on the brakes and the regenerative braking charges a small battery pack in the rear of the car. This then provides 25 kW (34 hp) of power to the rear wheels through a small electric motor. Saab calls it the XWD system, complete with all the advantages of a traditional AWD layout, as well as huge gains in efficiency.
Saab claims the powertrain will provide fuel economy of 47 mpg and CO2 emissions of 119 g/km, while propelling the Phoenix from zero to 60 in less than 5.9 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph.
Via: diseno-art
