@Geneva: SEAT IBX Crossover

SEAT is continuing the ambitious development of its new design DNA with the unveiling at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show of the new SEAT IBX concept car.

This stunning urban sports utility vehicle concept combines the powerful character and sporty design language of the Spanish brand with a self-confident look and distinctive proportions.

The SEAT IBX also boasts exceptional utility and outstanding versatility, as well as sustainable mobility through resource conservation. Its drive would come from an advanced hybrid powertrain that combines local zero-emissions electromobility in the city with the extensive cross-country range of an internal combustion engine.

In laying the groundwork for SEAT’s innovative new design language, the compact IBE electric sports coupé from last year met with enormous positive feedback. The IBX now demonstrates the evolutionary development of this new genetic code from SEAT Design in a completely different vehicle architecture – an exciting crossover between SUV and sports coupé.

Measuring 4.26 metres long, the SEAT IBX expands Europe’s extremely successful compact SUV segment with a dynamic and unique design alternative. And with its combination of compact dimensions and wide-ranging versatility, the IBX is the perfect fit for an active lifestyle in urban areas.

The modern, young lifestyle has many facets; offering endless options for job and leisure time, for friends and family. However, as a partner in mobility, the car must be just as multi-faceted. In response, the IBX has the perfect format – it boasts plenty of interior space and the variability to meet all requirements, yet it remains agile and compact enough to fit the bill on the streets and parking spaces of an urban area. And this is where a vehicle height of 1.62 metres with its suitably lofty seating position is invaluable. Particularly in dense urban traffic it delivers enormous benefits in terms of visibility, leading to greater safety.

The powertrain concept is perfect for the mobility requirements of an urban area, while meeting personal expectations of freedom. The vehicle, with its electric range of 45 kilometres, can cover many everyday journeys – with zero local emissions and sustainable responsibility. And yet its range is not limited. Personal freedom is always guaranteed and unlimited mobility supplied courtesy of the internal combustion engine.

Possible combustion engine candidates are the state-of-the-art direct injection TDI and TSI engines from the modern SEAT line-up. And, of course, the IBX is equipped with all the efficiency technologies from the Ecomotive programme. In its base configuration, the IBX is set up for front wheel drive. However, a modern 4WD system might be an option for further enhanced mobility.

Credits: wilswong