Saab 9-3 bio-convertible outpaces petrol

Eager to prove that a planet without petrol might not mean the end of performance motoring, Saab has produced what it calls ‘the world’s first fossil-fuel-free hybrid’.

The 9-3 Convertible-based BioPower Hybrid Concept has a 2-litre turbo engine that runs on pure bioethanol and which works in tandem with an electrical power system that boosts acceleration and handles stop/start work and electric-only city driving. It recharges its batteries using a regenerative braking system. 0-62mph takes 6.9sec, nearly two seconds quicker than the equivalent petrol model.