Speaking with Automobilwoche, the source also revealed that a hybrid 9-1 will be available from the start of the model’s product life-cycle. Product planners are keen to launch the new car in the U.S. and are already testing a prototype camouflaged under the sheet metal of an Opel Astra. Expect to see styling influences taken from the Saab Aero-X concept car (pictured) used on the new 9-1.
The new car will feature a conventional two-mode hybrid system with an electric motor mated to either a diesel, petrol or biofuel internal combustion depending on which market it’s heading to. The system allows the electric motor to be used during stop-start driving and initial acceleration, with the internal combustion engine only kicking in during high load.
The hybrid 9-1 will also feature new nano-based lithium battery technology, which last twice as long as conventional nickel metal hydride batteries and exhibit rapid charge and discharge characteristics as well as longer lifetimes.