The Saab 9-3 BioPower ePower is a mild-hybrid powertrain combining a 1.4 L turbocharged petrol BioPower engine with a 15 kW electric motor, produced from 2010 to 2012. It was Saab's primary foray into electrification, designed to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy in urban driving. The system uses a belt-driven integrated starter generator (BISG) to provide torque assist and enable engine stop-start functionality.
Fitted exclusively to the Saab 9-3 SportSedan and SportCombi (wagon) in BioPower trim, the ePower system was engineered for eco-conscious drivers seeking Saab's signature turbo torque without full electrification. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through its ability to run on E85 bioethanol or petrol, combined with the hybrid system, meeting Euro 5 standards.
One documented system consideration is the potential for reduced electric motor assist if the 48V lithium-ion battery pack is depleted or experiences thermal management issues, as noted in Saab Technical Service Bulletin TSB-10-12-01. This condition is typically temporary and resolves once the battery is recharged or cooled. Saab subsequently issued software updates to optimize battery management.
Saab
Production years 2010–2012 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Saab 9-3 BioPower ePower is a 1,364 cc turbocharged petrol/electric mild-hybrid system engineered for compact executive sedans and wagons (2010-2012). It combines direct ethanol (E85) capability with a belt-driven electric motor to deliver improved fuel economy and lower urban emissions. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it represents Saab's final technological innovation before its 2012 closure.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,364 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol / E85 Bioethanol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 75.1 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) petrol / 120 kW (163 PS) E85 + 15 kW electric | |
| Torque | 240 Nm petrol / 280 Nm E85 + 60 Nm electric | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (flex-fuel) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (min. ACEA A5/B5) | |
| Hybrid system | Mild Hybrid (BISG), 48V Lithium-ion battery |
The BISG system provides seamless stop-start and torque fill, enhancing urban efficiency but requires the 48V battery to be in good health for full functionality. Using E85 bioethanol significantly boosts power and torque but reduces fuel economy; the system automatically adjusts. Saab Longlife 5W-30 oil is critical for turbo longevity. The 48V system is generally low-maintenance, but software updates per TSB-10-12-01 can optimize battery management. Avoid deep discharging the 48V battery by ensuring the 12V system is healthy.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 meeting ACEA A5/B5 or Saab Longlife specification (Saab Owner's Manual 2010).
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2010-2012 model years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. E85 power boost requires fuel with >70% ethanol content (Saab Technical Specification Sheet B14NET).
Saab Workshop Manual: 9-3 NG (2003-2012)
Saab Technical Service Bulletin: TSB-10-12-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)
The Saab 9-3 BioPower ePower was used exclusively across Saab's 9-3 platform with longitudinal mounting. This powertrain received no significant platform-specific adaptations and no facelift revisions occurred during its short production run, ensuring full parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code 'B14NET' stamped on the front of the cylinder block. The presence of the 48V lithium-ion battery pack under the cargo floor (in the SportCombi) or in the trunk (in the SportSedan) is the definitive identifier for the ePower variant. Visually, it can be distinguished from standard BioPower models by the additional wiring harnesses for the BISG unit mounted on the front of the engine and the 'ePower' badge on the rear tailgate/trunk lid. The instrument cluster also features a unique hybrid system status display.
The 9-3 BioPower ePower's primary system consideration is temporary loss of hybrid assist from the 48V battery, with elevated incidence in vehicles with neglected 12V batteries. Saab TSB-10-12-01 documents cases linked to battery state-of-charge management, while general owner data suggests the core petrol engine remains robust. Ensuring the health of the auxiliary 12V system is critical for consistent hybrid functionality.
Analysis derived from Saab technical bulletins (2010-2012) and aggregated owner repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SAAB 9-3-BIOPOWER-EPOWER.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with SAAB or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
SAAB Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialSAAB documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
