The Saab Ecosport Prototype (1992)

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Ecosport Press Release

Saab 9000 Ecosport - The high-performance Saab 9000 Ecosport's advanced engineering focuses on four primary categories: environmental responsibility, safety, driver enjoyment and individuality.   Just a few of the innovative Ecosport's integrated components are: a) a low-emission, multi-fuel 2.3 liter, 255 bhp engine, a unique heat storage device known as a thermo accumulator, UV headlights; b) aggressive 17-inch, three-spoke alloy wheels with a new generation of low-rolling-resistance tires; c) high-performance aluminum brakes with 4-piston calipers; and d) specially-designed, body-molded seating that delivers the ultimate in comfort, especially suited for high-performance motoring.
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The Saab Ecosport was a very Aero-like vehicle produced in 1992 as a showcase for environmentally responsible prototypes. It included the fruits of 15 different development projects. The vehicle had a number of unique features including:

  • Low emission engine

  • CFC free A/C system

  • Heat storage device, or thermo accumulator, that stored heat to allow for cleaner cold starts, as well as to facilitate quicker heating in the winter

  • Multi-fuel adaptability (could run on gasoline, methanol, ethanol, or any combination of the three)

  • Ultraviolet headlights(developed as part of the prometheus project that spawned the joystick driven 9000)

  • Aluminum brakes with 4 piston calipers

  • 12 inch brake discs

  • 17 inch three spoke wheels similar to the later aero wheels

  • Experimental low rolling resistance 215/40x17 tire

  • 255hp engine

  • Basically identical aerodynamic aids as the 93 1/2 up (CS bodystyle) 9000 Aero

  • Automatic solar powered ventilation system (ala EV-1)

  • Early version of Sensonic gearchanging, called ACS (Automatic Clutch System)

 

Many thanks to Jason Henske, director of the Carolinas Saab
Register, for providing the exterior shot of the Ecosport, as well as the press release text and photos, and the above comments.  In other words, virtually everything on this page!