In Sweden, Saab already sells a BioPower model called the 9-5 2.0t BioPower, that uses bio-ethanol (a renewable and sustainable fuel known as E85). This model counts for an incredible 70% of 9-5 sales. At the Detroit Show, Saab showed a new concept based on this technology, but using it for performance gains as well as to protect the environment.

The uninitiated may not have noticed the 9-5 Aero BioPower on the Saab stand if Saab had not furnished the car with large decals pronouncing it, but this technology is really worth looking at. The concept car's 2.3-litre turbocharged engine is already found in production running on petrol only. In this form, it produces a respectable 260bhp and 350Nm of torque. The 9-5 accelerates from 0-60mph in a rapid 6.9 seconds. However, use E85 fuel in the modified engine, and the figures jump to an incredible 310bhp, 440Nm and less than six seconds to 60mph. This is in addition to a dramatic improvement in environmental performance, through reduced emissions of fossil carbon dioxide.

There is nothing magic about the changes to the engine either. In simple terms, the E85 fuel (85% ethanol, 15% petrol to help with cold starting) has a much higher octane rating than regular petrol so it allows more ignition advance at a given engine speed and load condition, which translates into higher performance. Most new engines already have 'knock' sensors that determine how much ignition advance the engine can run. This allows for a range of fuel octane ratings. Saab is likely to push this car into the marketplace if the infrastructure develops to provide E85 fuel easily.

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