2007 Geneva Auto Show: Saab BioPower 100 Concept

You might think, as we did, that you've seen this particular BioPower Saab before. But, no, no, no, says Saab. This alcohol-burner can run on 100 percent bio-ethanol. That last BioPower Saab, announced in 2004, could run on only up to 85 percent ethanol... Well heck, Sven, you can get any kinda pickup to do that these days! Does the fact that the BioPower 100 Concept can run on anything between 100 percent gasoline and 100 percent ethanol make it an interesting vehicle? Yes sir, it does. Does it make it a compelling "Concept" to feature at an auto show at which even the most beautiful, Earth-shattering concept car is overshadowed by the girls at the Lancia stand? Nope.

Still, Saab had Anthony Lo, the designer who oversaw last year's stunning Aero X concept, primp the exterior of the 9-5 wagon with some clear-lens taillamps and a roof mounted winglike thing. So there's that. Lost on all but the geekiest of car writers will be the concept's powertrain specs. The turbocharged 2.0-liter makes an impressive 300 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. A higher compression ratio (11:1 compared to the standard turbo's 8.8:1), new software for the engine-management system and ethanol-compatible seals and material throughout the engine explain the increased hp compared to the production BioPower 9-5 currently available in Europe. That engine makes only 180 hp.

Saab has also added small heating elements into the intake ports to heat the ethanol, which at temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit doesn't really want to, you know, work. -- Daniel Pund, Senior Editor, Detroit