Advanced underbonnet technology is poised to drive Saab deeper into the business car sector, it was claimed at the Fleet Show. Fleet operations manager Andy Dunsdon said the company was eagerly anticipating the arrival of a new model range featuring breakthrough engineering allowing a new plateau in performance and operating economy.

'Our new variable compression engine series is still two years away from being a production reality, but it will set the pace in delivering exciting driving characteristics while also qualifying for low benefit tax under the regulations due for introduction in 2002,' he said. 'This development is likely to create significant fresh opportunities with user-choosers for Saab, which traditionally sells 80% of its UK volume into the sector.'

According to the Swedish company, the new engine technology uses next-generation electronics to run at unusually high compression for ultra lean-burn efficiency.