Autocar, the oldest surviving auto magazine, has finally announced the Autocar Award winners. Winners that according to the company "celebrate the biggest success stories of the past 12 months – and those who made them happen." The highlights of the event include the announcement of winners. Among the winners is Saab Aero X, which was awarded as Concept of the Year.
Saab Aero-X concept car was unveiled at the Salon International de l'Auto. It uses powerful Saab performance parts, which include the 2.8 L twin-turbocharged V6 running on pure ethanol. The BioPower engine is fueled by ethanol, an energy source that slashes fossil carbon dioxide emissions. Said engine is capable of producing 400 horsepower It also has 7-speed automatic transmission controlled by paddles on the steering wheel.
According to the automaker, Saab Aero-X "harnesses the power of Saab's aviation and Scandinavian roots to make a unique statement in performance car design." In addition, the car gets the automaker's cues and flaunts its modern design that integrates its fighter jet roots. "This study shows how the strength of the Saab brand heritage can inspire bold, innovative design," said Bryan Nesbitt, the Executive Director of GM Design Europe pertaining to the concept car. "As we move forward with new Saab product, we will remain focused on carefully cultivating this brand equity in the context of Scandinavian design values."
Saab Aero-X boasts its gullwing doors, cockpit canopy, electronically-controlled suspension, reasonable storage, exterior and interior lighting using LED, and environment-friendly features.
Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab's Managing Director added, "This concept shows the exciting possibilities that are open to us as we evolve a more progressive design language for the Saab brand. Our designers, engineers and marketers in Sweden are ideally placed to nurture and communicate the unique DNA of the Saab brand. Their work will ensure that future product proposals express core qualities, such as progressive design, sporty performance and emotional functionality, in a way that is specific to Saab."
Other winners of Autocar Awards are Ford S-Max, Audi, and Fiat Punto. Ford S-Max emerged as the Car of the Year, Audi as Car Company of the Year, and Fiat Punto as Design of the Year.
