Saab: New flex-fuel engines

The swedish brand that was premium before GM jumped on the train comes with new engines in Europe.

GM is introducing a more powerful flex-fuel 2.0-liter turbocharged engine to the Saab 9-5 and SportCombi range in Europe. The new 2.3t BioPower model promises 14% more maximum power and 11% more torque when running on E85 than on gasoline.

Running on E85, the new Saab 9-5 2.3t BioPower engine delivers maximum power of 210 hp (157 kW) and 310 Nm of torque, compared to 185 hp (138 kW) and 280 Nm when using gasoline. As an example of the increased performance, the sedan with manual transmission accelerates from zero to 100 kph (0-62 mph) in 7.9 secs and 80-120 kph (50-75 mph) in fifth gear in 11.0 secs, compared to 8.5 and 12.6 secs when running only on gasoline. (Figures are provisional, pending homologation.)

E85 has a much higher octane rating (104 RON) than gasoline (95 RON), and turbocharging allows the use of a higher boost pressure and more advanced ignition timing—giving more engine power—than is possible on gasoline without risk of harmful pre-detonation (knocking). The only hardware modifications necessary are more durable valves and valve seats, and the use of ethanol-compatible materials in the fuel system, including the tank, pump, lines and connectors.

Saab’s Trionic engine management system monitors fuel quality and automatically adjusts ignition timing and fuel/air mixture to optimize running on E85 and/or gasoline in any combination.

The new Saab 9-5 goes on sale in Nordic markets, UK and Ireland later this year, with other European countries to follow, joining the current 2.0t BioPower model.

Related news: Foursprung, P4MR, GM, Saab
, flex-fuel

Source: GreenCarCongress, picture via The Autochannel

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