Remembering the SAAB PhoeniX Concept car

Remember those super-sleek, and over-the-top concept cars from your childhood? The ones that sent imaginations on fire, brought awe to young minds and provided a glimpse into an exciting automotive future? From first glance, the Saab PhoeniX is one of those concepts.

2011 SAAB PhoeniX Concept while on display at the Geneva Auto Show 2011. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2wOAKmH)

The PhoeniX was designed by Jason Castriota as one of his first creations for SAAB. The design was inspired by the SAAB 92001, but with design cues from nearly every SAAB model made. The car uses the platform that was intended for the planned 2013 SAAB 9-3 replacement, which was never realized.

Boasting tremendous technology and efficiency, the PhoeniX introduces what the automaker calls an ‘aeromotional’ design, which amounts to a visual evocation of the aerodynamic design principles used in SAAB’s first car.

Front side view of 2011 SAAB PhoeniX Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2wPHSQP)

The teardrop-inspired, ‘liquid metal’ skin is worn tightly against the PhoeniX’s structure and generates a muscular, taut and aggressive character. Though functionally sound and penned with an eye for efficiency, the outlandish look of this concept was a hit with kids and grown-ups alike.

Right side view of 2011 SAAB PhoeniX Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2wPHSQP)

And the Geneva Motor Show 2011 event was where the PhoeniX’s debut took place, crowds noted the curious aerodynamic winglets, which amount to sculpted, body-mounted spoilers utilized for airflow management. The winglets work towards a slippery drag coefficient of just 0.25, while creating a unique styling element.

Aside from the stand-out bodywork, the PhoeniX concept also boasted such styling elements as a low-profile, wraparound greenhouse and turbine-blade wheels as the acknowledgement form of the brand’s history in aviation world.

Interior view of 2011 SAAB PhoeniX Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2wPHSQP)

On board, the PhoeniX’s 2+2 cabin is styled with a simple and understated look that hides numerous technologically advanced features. Taking cues from competition cars, PhoeniX boasts shell-like seats, exposed segments that mimic a roll cage and a focused environment that literally surrounds the driver’s seat. 

Rear side view of 2011 SAAB PhoeniX Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2wPOYEK)

Despite the modest cabin appearance, PhoeniX boasts an afterburner-inspired instrument cluster, jet-style head-up display and a unique IQon infotainment and communications system that’s mounted as close to the driver’s fingertips as the steering wheel.

The uncluttered and minimalist approach also speaks to the model’s lightweight construction, which aids in fuel efficiency and performance. The Android-powered interface delivers easy access to numerous functions and works as its own unique styling element. It can even connect to the Internet.

Rear view of 2011 SAAB PhoeniX Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2MVIBdd)

As well another futuristic thing is the PhoeniX’s drivetrain. Under its rippling bodywork, the 2018 Saab PhoeniX deploys an innovative transmission, rear axle with an electric motor mated to a 200 hp, 1.6-liter petrol engine turbo sophisticated.

The result is a hybrid capacity intelligent all-wheel drive that enhances driving pleasure while reducing car's fuel consumption. The CO2 emissions and combined cycle fuel economy is projected to be just 5.0 l/100 km and 119 g/km..

Although now the Swedish car manufacturer has been gone, but through the existence of the SAAB PhoeniX Concept at least can make a wonderful memory of the success of those manufacturer ever build a beautiful concept car.

As we all knew, The PhoeniX was awarded the 2011 Auto Express design award with a landslide victory receiving by 30% of the votes, beating Alfa Romeo 4C (in the 2nd place) and Jaguar C-X75 (in the 3rd place). *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WIKIPEDIA | JALOPNIK | INNERMOBIL | TOPGEAR]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone

Kindly Bookmark and Share it: