bostonspider

Added shots from Autobild.de

Scanned from the German magazine Autozeitung

Interesting how spot on Leftlane News was with their sketch last year. Obviously someone fed them this image a while ago.. Left Lane News and SAAB United Rendering Comparison.

I like the look of this car... [source: www.saabunited.com]

How expandable is the Lambda platform? Can GM make a Suburban sized vehicle off of it? I can easily see a V8 powered AWD Lambda Escalade. MT has a sketch of what they think it might look like. It looks large and in charge..

some more nice shots I really like the wheels, and hope to see these on a production car soon.

Over in the Car Lounge, someone chopped it lowered and in a few different colors.

Not sure if this one has been posted to go with all the other "leaked" GM new cars and CUV's

No you are think of the 9-4X. This is an AWD "cross-country", "outback", "all-road" version of the 9-3 SportCombi wagon....

To be shown either at the UK show later this month, or in Paris this September. The 9-3X is the "cross-country" AWD version of the SportCombi. Pics are from AMS via TrollhattanSaab.net

I like this real pic. I think it is even nicer than the CGI's

According to Autocar, this is what the RWD Aplha based Caddy might look like.

More like a concept version of the 9-1 I think. I am sure we will see some changes between this and the 9-1 production car, a lot more than with the 9-4. I would guess that is why this was not called the 9-1 concept...

The bold execution of the 9-X BioHybrid evolves visual design themes from the award-winning Aero X coupe (shown Geneva 2006) and multi-dimensional 9X (shown Frankfurt 2001) concepts. Inside, it showcases an entirely new expression of Saab’s driver-focused cockpit design, as well as innovative seamless in-car connectivity for all personal nomadic devices. Smart rear functionality features a cargo deck with an automatic sliding floor and a ‘friction’ loading system. The small yet powerful 200 hp (147 kW), 1.4-liter BioPower turbo engine, optimized for bioethanol (E85) fuel, is backed by GM’s next-generation hybrid system (see separate release for details) for efficient, environmentally-responsible performance. “This concept redefines conventional compact car design.” says Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab’s Managing Director. “It shows how progressive Saab design can be combined with smart features and responsible, rightsizing performance that is in tune with the expectations of younger buyers in this segment.” Clean Scandinavian Design With minimal bodywork overhangs, a wide stance and extended roof line, the three-door Saab 9-X BioHybrid brings a dynamic, new dimension to conventional ‘hatchback’ looks. The single window graphic, smooth ‘fuselage’ bodywork – without any visible handles or even door mirrors – and ‘ice block’ lighting themes draw on roots in Scandinavian design and Saab’s aircraft heritage. At the front, the deep grille, that concave styling line in the hood pressing and the ‘wraparound’ windshield are inspired by the award-winning Aero X concept shown at Geneva two years ago. The car’s overall proportions and rear functionality are developed from the 9X multi-role concept shown at Frankfurt in 2001. The 9-X BioHybrid cuts a unique silhouette in compact car design. The longer roof line and ‘sawn off’ rear styling contributes to a better aerodynamic performance and provides more interior room than a conventional compact hatchback with a sloping screen and rear trunk lid deck. Touch-sensitive, keyless entry, eliminates the need for exterior door handles. And the use of small, retracting rear-view camera pods - instead of larger door mirrors - further contributes to the clean ‘fuselage’ effect, while also reducing aerodynamic drag at speed. A large solar cell in the glass roof takes advantage of free energy from the sun by adding charge to the hybrid battery pack while the vehicle is parked and also when it is being driven. At night, driving comfort is improved by automatic switching between high and dipped headlamps beams. A front -mounted camera monitors light sources on the road ahead and small shutters automatically ‘hood’ the high beam when on-coming traffic is approaching. Active Aerodynamics Echoing Saab’s roots in aircraft design, the 9-X BioHybrid explores the potential for using active aerodynamics to reduce drag – and fuel consumption – at cruising speeds. Above 70 kph (43 mph), the upper and lower bodywork is reshaped as the roof spoiler automatically extends to further lengthen the roof line and an underbody diffuser is deployed from the bottom of the rear bumper. During heavy braking from over 100 kph (62 mph), the rear spoiler is raised, adding downforce over the rear axle. This action also reveals a reflector that increases the visibility of the brake light underneath, as a further warning of heavy braking. Mould-breaking Interior Innovative design is even more dramatic inside the four-seater cabin, upholstered in white leather at the front and black. Here, the 9-X BioHybrid introduces an entirely new execution of Saab’s driver-focused cockpit design. The central, floor-mounted console, with its angled controls and displays, is now eliminated. Instead, the driver- focused layout incorporates a main instrument panel that sweeps out from the top of the door moulding, arching across the driver. Only shared climate control and interior lighting functions remain in a small, central touch-sensitive panel. The driver information zone is a flat, arc-shaped multi-layered acrylic surface, within which a row of five displays screens is embedded and illuminated in green 3-D graphics. This includes an ‘infotainment’ screen and control panel in the driver’s door moulding. Another ‘infotainment’ screen showing, for example, navigation with more in-depth information if selected, is located across the cabin for the front passenger. All displays and menus can be operated, adapted or minimized by the driver via controls on the fixed hub and rim of the steering wheel. The rear view camera screens are conveniently located above the main displays within the driver’s eye line. White ambient lighting of the cabin is taken a step further by a selectable level of suffused illumination, varying in intensity from a bright, cold to warm and soft. This is a feature that could even be programmed, for example, to reflect the changing seasons Seamless Communication The potential for seamless wireless connectivity (Bluetooth or WiFi) with one or multiple nomadic devices (mobile phones, PDAs etc) is demonstrated by Saab’s co-operation with Sony Ericsson in developing an interface for streaming data, entertainment and satellite navigation functions for in-car display and use. The interface allows the simultaneous use of devices, such as a phone and MP3 player, when passengers are in the car. The functions of the nomadic device are controlled by a screen in the car, for example, while it is kept in the user’s pocket. The smarter the device, the more functions in the car. Depending on the type of device, it can upload its own displays, as well as lock /unlock the car and even remotely change in-car pre-sets. It is all part of the concept’s vision in appealing to younger buyers who expect easy, on-the-move access to multi-media. Smart Load-carrying At the rear, the cargo deck features an electrically-powered slide-out floor, which is activated when the bottom half of the tailgate drops down over the rear bumper. The top section, hinged from the roof, can be opened separately so that smaller items may be dropped inside easily. The entire floor area, and the back of the folding rear seats, is covered by ‘high friction’ rubber carpeting. When the tailgate opens, aluminum bars in the floor are automatically raised just above the level of the high friction surface, making it easy to slide items inside. When the tailgate is closed, the bars are lowered to allow the high friction surface to ‘grip’ items and hold them securely in place. The ‘default’ setting for the rear seats is the folded down position, reflecting the fact that the youthful target buyers for such a car will use its load-carrying capability more often than they need to accommodate rear passengers. Vision The 9-X BioHybrid has been created by a team under Anthony Lo, Director of Advanced Design at General Motors Europe, working in co-operation with the Saab Brand Center in Sweden. . “This car is about efficiency in design and performance,” he says. “We have taken exterior themes from our previous concept work, such as the clean surfaces and lighting treatments, and tuned them for a compact format. “Inside the car, the new driver-focused design theme and the easy, seamless connectivity are both features we will be developing in future.”

As per this chop I found, it looks good with the G8 grill.

Wow I think it is so much better looking and more resolved than the typical Toyota, I mean compare it to the Highlander. The Traverse's proportions and detailing is so much better. The Traverse just looks so much cleaner, in many ways like a Tahoe does, though much more modern.

Interesting it does have significanlty more legroom in the third row, and more room behind the third row, but surprisingly with both rows folded it only has .9 more cubic feet, and with just the third row folded it has .6 cubic feet less. I wonder if that is a typo, as the car is 4" longer, and all the other exterior dimensions are pretty close to being the same. One would think that with both rows folded it would have more like 124 cubic ft. and with the third row folded 75 cubic ft. or so...

I am having a tough time seeing much of a size difference in these interior shots... Traverse Acadia

Interesting to compare the true platform-mates. the "BRX" and 9-4X. They do not look very much alike to me.

For release: Jan. 13, 2008, 12:01 a.m. EST (embargo broken by other outlets) INNOVATIVE 9-4X BIOPOWER CROSSOVER CONCEPT SIGNALS SAAB PRODUCT EXPANSION DETROIT – The Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept, revealed today at the North American International Auto Show, confirms Saab’s plans to enter the growing crossover segment with a dynamic, driver-focused vehicle inspired by Scandinavian design values and respect for the environment. The concept’s progressive design features are combined with a responsible, fun-to-drive appeal based on BioPower engine technology and a cutting-edge all-wheel-drive system. “This concept is a clear statement of what our brand is about,” said Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab Automobile Managing Director. “It is also an important next step in our plans to enter new market segments with distinctive product offerings.” The design of the Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept reflects a Scandinavian principle of simplicity of form, with clean and uncluttered lines, free of any cladding, moldings or roof bars, and defining “ice-block” surface and lighting themes. The progressive frontal styling and interior design elements also draw inspiration from Saab’s widely acclaimed Aero X concept. Innovative load-carrying solutions include a unique ski equipment stowage system, developed with mountain sports specialists Salomon. (Please see accompanying Salomon release.) Optimized for bioethanol (E85) fuel, t he four-cylinder, 2.0-liter BioPower turbo engine demonstrates Saab’s commitment to “rightsizing” – achieving sufficient levels of performance with a smaller, more efficient engine – by delivering 300 horsepower (221 kW) and strong torque of 295 lb.-ft (400 Nm). Compared to gasoline, driving on E85 produces less CO 2 emissions. (Please see accompanying Powertrain release). Mated to the industry-leading Saab XWD (“cross-wheel-drive”) system, this advanced powertrain promises to make driving to a destination as enjoyable as the adventure itself. The Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept was developed by a team headed by Anthony Lo, GM Europe’s Director of Advanced Design, in cooperation with designers and engineers from the Saab Brand Center in Sweden. “We focused on incorporating design themes from the Aero X in a crossover execution, adding functional, lifestyle features to support the activities of customers using this type of vehicle,” Lo said. The driver-focused cockpit in the sporty, four-seater cabin features an Aero X-inspired “clear zone,” with a flush-mounted starter button and infotainment controls, that sweeps up from the central console to the main display screen. Signature green lighting is used for all instrument illumination, while other subtle references to Saab’s aviation heritage include the “altimeter” speed read-out scale and aircraft-shaped trim on the steering wheel. The panoramic glass roof is in harmony with a car designed to deliver the enjoyment of outdoor pursuits. Saab designers worked with top Saab Salomon Big Mountain skiers to devise an innovative storage system for stowing skis and equipment inside the car. The rear cargo deck features a sliding floor with a fold-out aluminum ski holder, through which up to three pairs of skis and poles can be slotted. Boots are stowed in an underfloor, heated compartment and, for maximum practicality, the entire rear cargo area is covered in a waterproof and scratch-resistant rubber skin. The compact, all-aluminum, four-cylinder BioPower engine combines the benefits of turbocharging, direct injection and variable valve timing for the first time with high-octane E85 fuel (85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline). Driver involvement is taken to a new level by the innovative all-wheel-drive system, Saab XWD. Active management splits torque delivery between both the axles and the rear wheels, via an electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential (eLSD). Overall, the Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept is a vivid demonstration of Saab’s commitment to customers with outdoor leisure interests who seek a sporty driving experience that is in harmony with nature. # # #

For release: Jan. 8, 2008, 12:01 a.m. EST CADILLAC PROVOQ FUEL CELL CONCEPT DELIVERS CLEAN, PETROLEUM-FREE PERFORMANCE AND SIGNATURE DESIGN LAS VEGAS – Cadillac unveils a new vision for the future of luxury transportation with the innovative Provoq fuel cell concept – a hydrogen fuel cell crossover vehicle that continues GM’s commitment to displace petroleum through advanced technology. The Cadillac Provoq fuel cell concept is the latest example of GM’s groundbreaking E-Flex propulsion system, combining the new fifth-generation fuel cell system and a lithium-ion battery to produce an electrically driven vehicle that uses no petroleum and has no emission other than water. The concept’s fifth-generation fuel cell technology is half the size of its predecessor, yet it has been developed to produce more power and performance. “Cadillac is a natural fit for GM’s next step in developing the E-Flex platform,” says Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. “Cadillac, at its very essence, is about premium luxury, design and technology, so it’s fitting that Cadillac would be propelled by the most elegant solution. This signals Cadillac’s intent to lead the industry with alternative-fuel technology.” Fuel-cell variant of the E-Flex system The concept can drive 300 miles (483 km) on a single fill of hydrogen – with 280 miles (450 km) from hydrogen and 20 miles (32 km) on pure, battery electric energy. A pair of 10,000 psi (700 bar) composite storage tanks beneath the rear cargo floor hold 13.2 pounds (6 kg) of hydrogen to feed the fuel cell stack, located under the hood. There, hydrogen mixes with oxygen to generate electricity – up to 88 kW continuous power. A lithium-ion battery pack can store up to a total of 9kWh of electrical energy and also provides a peak of 60 kW of power for additional performance. The electricity generated by the fuel cell is distributed to a 70 kW co-axial drive system for the front wheels and individual, 40 kW wheel hub motors on the rear wheels, giving the Cadillac Provoq its all-wheel-drive traction and great driving dynamics. Its 0-60 mph (approximately 100 km/h) speed of 8.5 seconds is a more than 30-percent improvement over the previous-generation fuel cell system and with instantaneous torque to the wheels, it feels even faster. Provoq has a top speed of 100 mph (160 km/h). “This is a vision of what comes next – a fuel cell electric vehicle that delivers the driving characteristics Cadillac customers want and allowing them to do it without using a single drop of petroleum, while emitting only water vapor,” said Larry Burns, GM vice president for research and development. “This is proof that alternate fuels and advanced technologies create even greater opportunities to satisfy the luxury buyer.” Key features With sleek, signature Cadillac bodywork, the Provoq concept redefines luxury crossovers, offering uncompromising passenger and cargo space to match its performance and cruising range. Additional vehicle features include: -Solar panel integrated in the roof to help power onboard accessories, such as the interior lights, audio system and more -Brake-by-wire technology -Front grille louvers that close at highway speed to enhance aerodynamics, and open at low speed to provide maximum cooling to the fuel cell stack Purposefully dynamic design The Provoq has a sleek, athletic shape that builds on the second generation of Cadillac’s design renaissance, led by the 2008 CTS, with dynamic and purposeful features that support the hydrogen fuel cell powertrain and contribute to the vehicle’s overall efficiency. “All the people- and cargo-carrying capability customers expect in crossovers and SUVs is available in the Provoq, along with the premium attributes expected in a Cadillac,” said Ed Welburn, vice president, Global Design. Highlights include: -Active front grille, with grille louvers that open when the fuel cell stack requires cooling -Full underbody aerodynamic cover -Left- and right-hand charging ports incorporated in stylish front fender vents -Flush door handles that feature push-to-release operation -Wind tunnel-shaped outside mirrors with integral turn signals -Center high-mounted rear stop lamp incorporated into full-width, wraparound spoiler -Signature vertical taillamps with subtle fin design -Side glass mounted flush with pillars -Wheels with clear-covered space between the spokes, creating a sleeker profile while maintaining Cadillac’s signature bold wheel design -Low-drag roof rack “From the strong, shield grille and vertical headlamps to the crisp body lines, the Provoq is instantly recognizable as a contemporary Cadillac,” said Hoon Kim, exterior lead designer. “Like the new CTS, it is bold and expressive, but there is enhanced shape between the edges – it’s a new proportion for crossovers, with a fast, almost coupe-like rear. “Everything about the vehicle reinforces the notion that great style and environmentally conscious transportation can go hand in hand,” said Kim. “We didn’t sacrifice proportion, stance or Cadillac’s iconic design cues; we used them to support the efficiency of the vehicle. “They are the features customers expect,” he said. “The adaptability of the E-Flex architecture enabled the designers to create a great-looking vehicle, regardless of its alternative-fuel powertrain.” Kim points to the fender-mounted charge ports as prime example. They allow overnight, plug-in charging that extends the driving range. The ports have a satin-chrome appearance that incorporates an amber light to indicate the system is charging and a green light to indicate when charging is completed. “The ports are functional, but rather than hide them, they are design elements of the Provoq,” he said. “Sweeping body lines that culminate at the top and bottom edges of the ports suggest forward thrust, even when the vehicle is stationary.” The vertical, neon-lit taillamps blend style with functionality, too, as their finned shape was designed to make the Provoq as aerodynamically efficient as possible. Indeed, the Provoq has short overhangs and a sporty ride height that is complemented by large, 21-inch wheels. The wheels are wrapped in custom Michelin tires incorporating Green-X technology. These low-rolling resistance tires feature a tread pattern that mimics the “H20” notation for water. The tire designers and engineers at Michelin North America enthusiastically accepted GM’s challenge to create a custom low-rolling resistance tire to complement the energy efficiency and reduced environmental footprint of the Cadillac Provoq. During the past 15 years, the tire maker has developed four generations of Michelin green energy-saving tires, and the team’s no-compromises approach to the project helped reduce the Provoq’s overall fuel consumption without sacrificing road performance, grip and safety. When used in conjunction with the other energy-efficient solutions featured on the Cadillac Provoq, the benefits of Michelin green energy-saving tires include: -A reduction in the consumer’s overall cost of ownership -An extended vehicle range through a more efficient use of on-board energy and its storage capacity -A reduction of vehicle impact on the environment through lower CO 2 and particulate emissions. Uncompromising interior Like the exterior, the Provoq’s interior blends style with function. It seats five and incorporates the comfort, convenience and infotainment features Cadillac customers seek. Most importantly, the fuel cell powertrain does not intrude on passenger or cargo room. The hydrogen fuel tanks are mounted beneath the cargo floor, with the storage batteries located at the center of the chassis. The fuel cell stack is located under the hood, giving the Provoq the interior layout of a conventional crossover – including a full cargo area and a 60/40-split folding rear seat. “The interior is roomy, well-equipped and offers the space people want in a crossover,” said Matt Erdey, interior lead designer. “There are no compromises inside the Provoq to accommodate the fuel cell powertrain and fuel tanks – a factor that proves the technology and real-world feasibility are growing closer together.” There may not be compromising reminders of the powertrain in the interior, but the Provoq carries the instantly identifiable hallmarks of a contemporary Cadillac interior, with an expressive, well-crafted design. “It picks up the cues, refinement and attention to detail of the new CTS and takes them to the next level,” said Erdey. “A contrasting color scheme, extensive use of ambient lighting technology and elements such as cut-and-sewn, hand-wrapped leather with French seams are elements seen in current Cadillac models, but they are amplified in the Provoq. “ The interior has a contrasting, dark gray and light gray color scheme, with chrome and satin-chrome accents throughout. Ambient lighting extends across the instrument panel and into the door panels, as well as the foot wells, sills and under the seats. A unique instrument cluster with large, reconfigurable LCD displays offers a multitude of vehicle information readouts, including fuel cell information and vehicle performance. Like the CTS, the Provoq has a prominent center stack that houses the audio and climate systems, as well as a navigation system that rises out of the top of the instrument panel. Also like the CTS, there is an integrated hard drive that stores navigation maps, thousands of songs and more. Between the front bucket seats is a large center console with a fully enclosed storage compartment that is home to ports for USB-connected devices and other electronics. The console also has a cell phone holder with built-in Bluetooth and inductive charging. The compact shifting mechanism on the console uses shift-by-wire technology to engage the gears, resulting in more storage space within the console. A variety of recycled and recyclable materials were used, as well. Highlights include: -The headliner is wrapped in a fully recyclable soy-based material -The carpet is made of recycled polyester and jute -Leather used to cover the seats and instrumental panel is free of harmful chemicals -Xorel material used on the door panels and instrument panel; treated to perform as a carbon-fiber-type material -Chrome trim made with less-harmful materials The earth-friendly interior components blend seamlessly with the more conventional materials inside the Provoq, enhancing the vehicle’s integrated, customer-focused environment. The same goes for the cargo area, which features an auxiliary power outlet and a load floor that is level with the hatch opening. “The integration of the features and technology is remarkable,” said Erdey. “If you didn’t know there was a hydrogen fuel cell stack under the hood, you’d never know it was anything but a roomy, functional crossover.” # # #