Thanks to Saab Global’s hybrid site, here’s a bit more detail as to what components are what when it comes to this new drivetrain concept from Saab. The details that correspond to the numbers are below.

The Saab 9-3 BioPower Hybrid Concept is just as easy to drive as its petrol or diesel powered siblings. Energy use and power distribution is fully automatic. The only visible differences from a conventional car are a few instruments and the Zero Mode switch. Despite its compact design, the Saab Biopower Hybrid is a full hybrid vehicle, which means it has the capacity to be driven entirely on the stored electricity.

1. Saab BioPower 2.0 Turbo – combustion engine optimised to run on pure bioethanol (E100), resulting in zero fossil fuel emission.

2. Integrated starter/generator (ISG) – built into the flywheel, between the engine and transmission. Contributes with an additional 15 kW (20 bhp) and up to 120 Nm of torque

3. Rear Drive Unit (RDU) – transmission differential with an integrated 38 kW (52 bhp) electric motor/alternator. Deliver up to 665 Nm of torque briefly at lower speeds to boost take-off performance.

4. Battery Management System (BMS) – Electronic Control Unit with software for battery supervision.

5. 42 V battery – powers the front electric motor (ISG).

6. 300 V battery – powers the Rear Drive Unit. Compact, high-capacity lithium-ion battery.

7. Electronic Control Unit – for the Rear Drive Unit (RDU).

8. Zero Mode button – switch between Hybrid and Zero Mode. Driving range in fully electric Zero Mode is 10–20 km depending on driving conditions.

9. Electronic Control Unit – for the Integrated Starter Generator (ISG).