Saab Automobile

Saab Automobile AB

File:Saab Automobile logo.svg Saab Automobile logo
Company type	Subsidiary (1989–2010)
Industry	Automotive
Predecessor	Saab-Scania automotive division
Founded	1945
Founder	Saab AB
Defunct	2012 (bankruptcy)
Fate	Bankrupt; assets acquired by National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS)
Headquarters	Trollhättan , Sweden
Area served	Worldwide
Key people	Not specified
Products	Automobiles, including Saab 92, Saab 900, Saab 9-3, Saab 9-5
Owner	General Motors (2000–2010), Spyker Cars N.V. (2010–2012)
Number of employees	Not specified
Parent	Saab AB (pre-1989), General Motors (2000–2010), Spyker Cars N.V. (2010–2012)

Saab Automobile AB

Saab Automobile AB (pronounced Template:IPAc-en) was a Swedish car manufacturer established in 1945 as a division of its parent company, Saab AB, which initiated the development of a compact vehicle. The inaugural model, the Saab 92, debuted in 1949. In 1968, Saab AB merged with Scania-Vabis, and by 1978 the company introduced the Saab 900, which would become its most popular model. The mid-1980s saw the launch of the Saab 9000.

In 1989, the automotive segment of Saab-Scania was spun off into an independent entity known as Saab Automobile AB, with General Motors (GM) acquiring a 50% stake. During this era, notable models such as the Saab 9-3 and Saab 9-5 were developed. GM exercised its option to purchase the remaining shares in 2000, gaining full ownership. A decade later, in 2010, GM sold Saab Automobile AB to Dutch automaker Spyker Cars N.V..

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Saab 900

Despite earning a reputation for robust engineering and positioning itself as a premium brand, Saab struggled to expand its market beyond a dedicated niche audience. After facing financial difficulties throughout 2011, the company filed for bankruptcy when a Chinese consortium's acquisition attempt was thwarted by GM, which opposed transferring technology and production rights to China. On 13 June 2012, it was announced that National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS) had acquired Saab Automobile’s bankrupt assets.

According to "Saab United," NEVS produced its first Saab 9-3 off the pre-production line on 19 September 2013. Full-scale manufacturing resumed on 2 December 2013 with petrol-powered Saab Aero sedans identical to those built prior to bankruptcy. This effort aimed to reestablish the supply chain while developing new NEVS-Saab models. However, NEVS lost its license to manufacture vehicles under the Saab brand in mid-2014—the trademark remains owned by the original aerospace company—and subsequently released electric cars based on the Saab 9-3 platform under the NEVS name.

History

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Ursaab, the prototype that led to the Saab 92 – Saab's inaugural car

Svenska Aeroplan AB (1948–1969)

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Saab 96

Saab, formally known as Svenska Aeroplan Aktiebolaget (Swedish for "Swedish Aeroplane Company"), was founded in 1937 in Linköping as a Swedish aerospace and defense enterprise. The firm was originally created to manufacture aircraft for the Swedish Air Force to safeguard Sweden’s neutrality amid the escalating tensions preceding World War II. As the war ended and demand for military fighter planes declined, Saab sought to diversify into new sectors.

In 1945, an automotive design initiative began under the internal designation "X9248". This project was later officially named "Project 92", with the number reflecting its position following the production of the Saab 91, a single-engine trainer aircraft. By 1948, Saab transformed a facility in Trollhättan into an automobile assembly plant, relocating both the project and the car manufacturing headquarters there—a location that remains central to Saab’s car production. Before finalizing the production model, four prototypes called "Ursaab" or "original Saab" were developed, numbered 92001 to 92004.

Production of the Saab 92 commenced in December 1949. Approximately 20,000 units were sold throughout the early 1950s. In 1955, this model underwent extensive redesign and mechanical updates, emerging as the "Saab 93". The engine configuration expanded from a two-cylinder to a three-cylinder unit, and its front end introduced Saab’s iconic trapezoidal radiator grille for the first time. The lineup was further extended in 1959 with the addition of a station wagon variant, the Saab 95. This era also marked Saab’s entry into performance vehicles with the debut of the Saab 94, the initial model in the Saab Sonett series.

The year 1960 brought about the third major evolution of this platform with the launch of the Saab 96. This model was pivotal for Saab, becoming its first vehicle widely exported beyond Sweden’s borders. Its distinctive design resonated well with consumers, resulting in nearly 550,000 units sold. Unlike contemporaneous American cars, models such as the 93, 95, and 96 featured a three-cylinder two-stroke engine that required mixing oil into the fuel tank, employed front-wheel drive, and incorporated a freewheeling mechanism enabling clutchless downshifts via a column-mounted manual shifter. Additionally, front seat shoulder belts were introduced early on.

A significant milestone arrived in 1968 with the introduction of the Saab 99. Representing Saab’s first entirely new model in nearly two decades, it marked a decisive departure from previous designs like the 92. The Saab 99 incorporated numerous innovations that would become hallmarks of future Saabs: a wraparound windshield, bumpers capable of self-repairing minor damage, headlamp washers, and side-impact door reinforcements. Designed by Sixten Sason, its aesthetic was as groundbreaking as its technology; features such as the distinctive Saab hockey stick design element have continued to shape Saab’s visual identity over time.

Saab-Scania (1969–1989)

File:Saab 99 (20150511-DSC05049).JPG

The Saab 99 debuted in 1969 featuring an entirely new design.

In 1969, Saab AB combined forces with the Swedish commercial vehicle producer Scania-Vabis AB, resulting in the creation of Saab-Scania AB, under the ownership of the Wallenberg family.

The Saab 99 lineup was broadened in 1973 by introducing a combi coupé variant, a body style that became closely associated with the brand. By 1976, production reached a milestone with the manufacturing of the millionth Saab automobile.

In 1978, Saab entered into a partnership with Fiat to market a rebadged Lancia Delta as the Saab 600 and to collaborate on developing a new vehicle platform. This collaboration led to the launch of the Saab 9000 in 1985, which shared its underlying Type Four chassis with the Alfa Romeo 164, Fiat Croma, and Lancia Thema. The 9000 represented Saab’s initial foray into the luxury car segment but did not meet expected sales targets.

The year 1978 also saw the introduction of the successor to the 99: the Saab 900. Nearly one million units were produced, establishing it as Saab’s most successful and emblematic model. In 1986, a convertible version was introduced, manufactured at the Saab-Valmet plant in Finland, accounting for about one-fifth of all 900 sales. The "classic 900" continues to enjoy a devoted following to this day.

General Motors and Investor AB (1989–2000)

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Saab 9-5

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Saab 900

In 1989, Saab’s automotive division was spun off from Saab-Scania to form an independent entity called Saab Automobile AB, based in Sweden; ownership was equally split between General Motors and Investor AB. GM invested US$600 million, securing an option to acquire full ownership within ten years. That same year, Saab inaugurated a new factory in Malmö, situated on the grounds of the former Kockums shipyard. This facility was innovative for its emphasis on employee involvement and comfort, aiming to boost productivity and retain skilled labor. Although designed for an annual capacity of 60,000 vehicles—with plans to expand to 90,000 by 1995—the plant faced declining demand and economic challenges, producing only 10,176 cars in its first complete year of operation in 1990. Following an assessment by GM, production shifted to a conventional assembly line, but despite this adjustment, the factory was closed down in June 1991 after assembling approximately 20,664 vehicles over two years.

GM’s involvement facilitated the introduction of a redesigned 900 model in 1994. This iteration shared its platform with the Opel Vectra. Thanks largely to this model’s performance, Saab returned to profitability in 1995 after seven consecutive years of losses. Nevertheless, this version did not replicate the cult status or quality reputation enjoyed by its predecessor.

The year 1997 marked half a century since Saab began manufacturing cars. To celebrate this milestone at their owners’ convention, Saab unveiled a successor to the aging 9000: the Saab 9-5. Concurrently, the existing 900 received an update and was rebranded as the Saab 9-3, aligning it with its larger counterpart. Notably, the new 9-5 omitted the combi coupé body style that had been offered for two decades; instead, a wagon variant was introduced in 1999.

General Motors (2000–2010)

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Saab 9-3 Evo

In 2000, GM opted to purchase the remaining shares of Saab for US$125 million, making it a fully owned subsidiary.

This strengthened alliance resulted in the launch of the completely redesigned 9–3 in 2003. Marketed as a sporty sedan, this generation abandoned Saab's traditional hatchback design in favor of a more conventional four-door sedan format. The vehicle was built on a platform co-developed with Opel—the GM "global Epsilon 1 platform"—sharing several components with the Opel Vectra, but this time the partnership involved deeper engineering collaboration.

Under GM’s oversight, Saab introduced two badge-engineered models to the U.S. market in 2005: the Saab 9-2X, derived from the Subaru Impreza, and the Saab 9-7X, based on the Chevrolet Trailblazer. Both vehicles aimed to boost sales but were met with poor critical reception and weak market performance, leading to their discontinuation within a few years. Additionally, GM postponed the release of the 9-3 wagon by three years, canceled plans for a hatchback variant of the 9-3 sedan, delayed all-wheel-drive implementation in Saab cars until 2008, scrapped a replacement for the 9–5 in 2005, and announced intentions to relocate production from Saab’s traditional Trollhättan facility to Opel’s plant in Rüsselsheim.

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Saab 9-3 sport combi

Facing declining performance amid a slowing economy in 2007, GM declared in December 2008 that Saab was being "reviewed," which included exploring options such as selling or closing down the brand.

As negotiations advanced, GM gradually withdrew its support, leading Saab to enter administration—the Swedish equivalent of Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the U.S. Saab’s managing director Jan-Åke Jonsson described this step as "the best way to establish an independent company poised for investment." Meanwhile, the Swedish government remained hesitant to intervene; industry minister Maud Olofsson emphasized that Sweden would not own car factories and highlighted that GM is one of the world’s largest automakers, warranting certain expectations.

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Saab Aero-X

On June 16, 2009, Koenigsegg announced plans to acquire Saab from GM. This offer was supported by a consortium including Norwegian investors and Chinese automaker Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co Ltd (BAIC). The following month, both sides confirmed GM’s approval of the sale agreement. Although some financial issues remained unresolved, it was anticipated that a loan from the European Investment Bank would address these concerns. The loan received approval in October; however, on November 24, Koenigsegg publicly stated it had "painfully and reluctantly" decided to abandon the acquisition due to ongoing delays and difficulties coordinating among GM, the European Investment Bank, the Swedish National Debt Office, and BAIC.

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Second generation Saab 9-5

On December 14, 2009, it was revealed that BAIC would purchase intellectual property rights and production equipment for previous-generation models—the Saab 9-3 and Saab 9–5—in a transaction valued at approximately US$197 million. This funding was projected to sustain operations for about three months. BAIC expressed intentions to develop a new brand based on these assets and confirmed acquiring "three complete vehicle platforms, two engine technologies, and two transmission systems."

Following Koenigsegg’s withdrawal, GM announced that if no buyer emerged by the end of 2009, Saab would be discontinued in 2010. Negotiations with various parties—including Dutch boutique sports car manufacturer Spyker—failed to produce a deal, prompting GM to officially declare plans to wind down Saab.

Despite this setback, renewed bids appeared. Previous contenders Spyker and Merbanco submitted revised proposals alongside a new offer from Luxembourg-based Genii Capital, backed by Formula One executive Bernie Ecclestone. GM continued accepting offers until their self-imposed deadline of January 7, 2010. Acknowledging slim prospects for an agreement, GM committed to thoroughly reviewing each bid.

2010 – Acquisition of Saab

On 26 January, General Motors (GM) announced its agreement to sell Saab to Spyker N.V., pending approval from regulatory bodies and government authorities; the transaction was finalized on 23 February 2010. GM continued to supply Saab with engines, transmissions, and fully assembled vehicles, including the new Saab 9-4x produced at GM’s Mexican facility. The arrangement involved a loan from the European Investment Bank backed by the Swedish government. The deal consisted of an upfront payment of US$74 million to GM due by July 2010, along with Spyker shares valued at US$320 million.

2011 – Insolvency

On 25 February, Spyker Cars N.V. declared its intention to sell its sports car division in order to concentrate on Saab operations. The company planned to rebrand itself in May, incorporating the Saab name.

By early 2011, Saab faced severe financial difficulties, which Spyker was unable to offset. Both entities ceased settling their obligations, leading several suppliers on 30 March to halt deliveries to Saab’s Trollhättan facility. Initially, Spyker CEO Victor Muller attributed these issues to media speculation and asserted that Saab had sufficient funding. Production at the Trollhättan plant was completely suspended on 5 April.

Victor Muller sought capital injections from multiple sources. On 30 March, Vladimir Antonov, a Russian banker and former backer of Muller, requested permission from Swedish authorities, the European Investment Bank, and General Motors to acquire shares in Saab; however, the EIB declined his application due to concerns regarding his business conduct.

A joint venture between Saab and Chinese automaker Hawtai was announced on 3 May but dissolved rapidly when Hawtai withdrew from the agreement on 12 May.

Subsequently, negotiations commenced with Chinese car manufacturer Youngman and automotive retailer Pang Da. After extended discussions, these companies agreed to jointly acquire Saab Automobile and its UK dealership network from Swedish Automobile for US$140 million, with Youngman holding a 60% stake and Pang Da owning 40%.

On 6 December, GM declared it would terminate licenses for its patents and technology if Saab’s ownership transferred to Pang Da and Zhejiang Youngman, citing concerns that such use would not align with GM investors’ interests. Consequently, Saab developed an alternative proposal maintaining the original ownership structure without a Chinese partner as a direct owner; instead, the Chinese entities would hold a 50% stake in a newly formed subsidiary.

With no viable alternatives remaining after GM’s continued opposition to Chinese involvement, Saab officially filed for bankruptcy on 19 December 2011 following three years of efforts to remain solvent. Under Swedish bankruptcy legislation, companies filing for insolvency may still be acquired during bankruptcy proceedings.

On 16 April 2012, the District Court of Vänersborg convened a hearing concerning Saab’s bankruptcy. The appointed receivers valued Saab’s assets at approximately US$500 million against debts totaling US$2 billion. After accounting for asset values, the outstanding liabilities amounted to roughly US$1.5 billion.

2012 – $3 Billion Damage Lawsuit

On August 6, 2012, Spyker, with legal representation from the firm Patton Boggs, initiated legal proceedings against General Motors in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. The lawsuit sought damages amounting to US$3 billion, alleging that GM's interventions in late 2011 obstructed various potential agreements between Spyker and Youngman regarding Saab Automobile. Youngman had indicated readiness to invest several billion dollars to secure Saab's future viability. Specifically, under the Automotive Technology License Agreement (ATLA) between GM Global Technology Operations Inc (GTO) and Saab, GM declined to license platforms and technology for Saab vehicles if any Chinese entity became part of Saab's ownership.

To address this obstacle, Spyker and Youngman proposed a structure whereby Youngman would extend a €200 million loan to Saab, convertible into equity only after Saab discontinued the use of GM technology in its cars. Despite this arrangement, GM persisted in refusing to license the necessary platforms and technologies required for manufacturing Saab vehicles in Trollhättan. Furthermore, GM threatened to halt production of the 9-4X model at its Mexican facility should the agreement proceed.

As a result, the negotiations ultimately failed, compelling Saab to declare bankruptcy. Spyker contended that GM's conduct was unlawful. Since Saab remained under receivership following bankruptcy until the closure of the deal with Nevs, Spyker and Saab Automobile’s receivers entered into an agreement whereby Spyker would cover litigation expenses in return for receiving 90% of any awarded damages if successful.

2013 – lawsuit rejected

In June 2013, the district court ruled in favor of General Motors, determining that GM was justified in preventing the sale. Later, in October 2014, this decision was confirmed by the circuit court of appeals.

National Electric Vehicle Sweden (2012–2014)

Main article: NEVS

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Silver Saab 9-3 Aero Sedan MY14

On 13 June 2012, a press event announced that a Chinese-led consortium named National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS) had acquired the bankruptcy estate of Saab Automobile AB along with its subsidiaries Saab Automobile Powertrain AB and Saab Automobile Tools AB, as well as the Saab manufacturing facility. NEVS was established by Hong Kong-based National Modern Energy Holdings (NME) and Japan-based Sun Investment specifically to purchase Saab’s bankrupt assets.

The acquisition did not include Saab Automobile Parts AB, which remained under ownership of the Swedish National Debt Office. NEVS intended to focus exclusively on electric vehicles, planning to launch an electric variant of the existing Saab 9-3 model around 2013 or 2014, and to continue developing its successor, the PhoeniX concept. However, General Motors refused to license technology for the Saab 9-5 and 9-4X models, preventing their production.

In August 2012, Scania AB declared that the griffin emblem shared between Scania and Saab would no longer be permitted on future Saab vehicles under NEVS ownership. Scania cited concerns over the logo’s value in China and potential misuse through NEVS's Chinese connections.

By January 2013, following Sun Investment’s withdrawal, NEVS secured a new partnership with Qingdao Qingbo Investment Co. Ltd., which acquired a 22% stake. This agreement provided NEVS with SEK 2 billion and access to a production facility for vehicles intended for the Chinese market. Meanwhile, manufacturing for North American and most European markets remained at Trollhättan in Sweden. NEVS also explored sourcing drivetrain components from Fiat/Chrysler for non-electric variants.

The Trollhättan plant reopened on 12 August 2013 to prepare and reorganize production lines. The existing Saab 9-3 model was set to resume production soon with a new electric motor while work continued on finalizing the new 9-3 Phoenix.

In September 2013, NEVS produced its first pre-production Saab-branded vehicle, visually similar to the previous 9-3 but primarily used for testing new parts and assembly processes. A refreshed exterior design was planned for the finalized production version. On 29 November 2013, NEVS announced that full-scale manufacturing would begin on 2 December after replacing approximately 20% of components previously sourced from GM.

Following supplier negotiations, limited production of the petrol-powered Saab 9-3 restarted in December 2013 with sales targeting Sweden and China. Production halted again in May 2014; initially described as temporary but extended multiple times. NEVS attributed these interruptions to insufficient funding from Qingdao, requiring owner Kai Johan Jiang to support operations using private capital and assets from parent company National Modern Energy Holdings Ltd.

At this time, NEVS reportedly owed creditors around $57 million and sought bankruptcy protection to facilitate restructuring. Despite receiving creditor protection, NEVS lost permission to use the Saab brand name. Although NEVS expressed hope of regaining rights to the name, Saab AB officially terminated licensing agreements in 2016, mandating that future vehicles be marketed under the NEVS name.

After securing investments from various Chinese groups including Tianjin city and initiating construction of a new factory, NEVS was acquired by Chinese conglomerate Evergrande Group in 2019. Evergrande's financial difficulties led to NEVS ceasing operations in March 2023 by entering "Hibernation Mode"—a strategy aimed at avoiding bankruptcy but effectively resulting in liquidation.

Production

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Primary manufacturing facilities of Saab in Trollhättan

In 2008, Saab's global vehicle output reached 89,143 units across five countries: Sweden, Austria, the United States, Mexico, and Germany. However, production experienced a steep decline in 2009 as the company’s new management grappled with escalating financial challenges. Manufacturing was halted until late 2013, when the new owners initiated a limited production run of the 2014 model year 9-3 sedans.

Annual Production Figures

Year	Units Produced
2014	380 (NEVS)
2013	71 (NEVS)
2012	0
2011	127,738
2010	32,183
2009	20,821
2008	90,281 (including 1,195 Cadillac BLS built in Trollhättan)
2007	125,397 (including 2,772 Cadillac BLS built in Trollhättan)
2006	135,365 (including 3,266 Cadillac BLS built in Trollhättan)
2005	127,593 (including 123 Cadillac BLS built in Trollhättan)
2004	128,827
2003	130,034
2002	124,892
2001	123,755
2000	133,013
1999	127,850
1998	124,868
1997	105,114
1996	95,761
1995	97,307
1994	94,084
1993	70,961
1992	84,569
1991	80,366
1990	87,356
1989	103,591
1988	120,562
1987	134,112
1986	126,401
1985	111,813
1984	102,018
1983	96,012
1982	83,557
1981	66,392
1980	65,754
1979	83,758
1978	72,516
1977	76,498
1976	95,927
1975	90,793
1974	92,554
1973	89,467
1972	83,997
1971	72,960
1970	73,982
1969	61,711
1968	52,551
1967	45,325
1966	37,069
1965	48,517
1964	43,493
1963	40,374
1962	35,890
1961	33,040
1960	26,066
1959	17,836
1958	13,968
1957	9,852
1956	6,321
1955	5,620
1954	5,138
1953	3,424
1952	2,298
1951	2,179
1950	1,246
1949	20
1948	1
1947	2
1946	1

Between the years of 1969 and 2003 Saab produced several models at the Valmet Automotive facility located in Uusikaupunki, Finland. This operation was part of a collaborative venture initiated in partnership with Valmet in 1968. Post-2003 saw the relocation of 9-3 convertible production to Graz, Austria. In a subsequent move during 2010 production of the 9-3 convertible returned to Trollhättan for the first time ever.

Models

Saab vehicles typically featured the number 9 within their model designations. The last models produced were the 9-3 and 9-5, both assembled in Trollhättan, Sweden. Up until 2008, the 9-7X was built by GM alongside the Chevrolet Trailblazer and other related platform vehicles. An exception to this naming convention is the Saab-Lancia 600, which was essentially a rebranded version of the Lancia Delta.

In December 2013, Nevs revealed that production of the Saab 9-3 sedan had resumed, with plans to introduce convertible, station wagon, and electric variants within the following year. However, manufacturing ceased again in 2014.

Cancelled models

• Saab 98, a combi-coupé variant of the Saab 96
• Saab 9-2, a model inspired by the original Saab 92, with production intended for 2014.

Historical models

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1956 Saab Sonett I

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1975 Saab 96

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1995 Saab 900SE NG convertible

• Saab 92 lineage:
  • Saab 92 (1949–1956)
  • Saab 93 (1955–1960)
    • Saab GT750 (1958–1960)
  • Saab 94 Sonett I (1956)
  • Saab 95 station wagon (1959–1978)
    • Saab 95 with a 3-cylinder two-stroke engine (1960–1967)
    • Saab 95 powered by a V4 engine (1967–1980)
  • Saab 96 (1960–1980)
    • Two-stroke, 3-cylinder engine versions (1960–1968)
    • Saab Sport with a three-cylinder two-stroke engine (1962–1966)
    • Saab Monte Carlo 850, three-cylinder two-stroke (1966–1967)
    • V4 engine variants (1967–1980)
    • Saab Monte Carlo V4, V4 engine (1967–1968)
  • Saab 97
    • Sonett II (1966–1970)
    • Sonett III (1970–1974)
• The single-seat racing car, Saab Formula Junior (1960)
• The caravan/camper/travel trailer called SaabO (1964–1968)
• Saab 99 series:
  • Saab 99 (1968–1984)
  • Classic Saab 900 (1979–1994)
  • Saab 90 (1984–1987)
• Saab 600 (1985–1988)
• Saab 9000 (1985–1998)
• Saab 900 "New Generation" (NG) (1994–1998)
• First generation Saab 9-3 (1998–2002)
• Saab 9-2X, based on the Subaru Impreza second generation platform (2005–2006)
• Saab 9-7X (2005–2009)
• First generation Saab 9-5 (YS3E) (1997–2009)
• Second generation Saab 9-3 SportSedan (2002–2011, resumed briefly in 2013–2014)
• Second generation Saab 9-3 Convertible (2004–2011), with production continued in 2012 by ANA)
• Second generation Saab 9-3 SportCombi (2006–2011)
• Saab 9-3X crossover model (2009–2011)
• Second generation Saab 9-5 facelifted version (2010–2011)
• Saab 9-4X SUV produced from June to December of 2011

Concepts and prototypes

• Saab 92 series:
  • Saab 92001 or Ursaab: The initial prototype that led to Saab’s first production vehicle (1946)
  • Saab Monster (1959)
  • Saab 60 (1962)
  • Saab Quantum (1962)
  • Saab Catherina (1964)
  • Saab MFI13 (1965)
  • Saab Toad (1966)
  • Saab 98 (1974)
• Saab EV-1 (1985)
• Saab 900 series:
  • Saab Viking (1982)
• Saab 9000 series:
  • Saab 9000 Cabriolet
  • Saab Prometheus: A 9000 model equipped with a joystick replacing the steering wheel (1993)
• Saab 9XX Concept (1991)
• Saab 9-X series:
  • Saab 9-X (2001)
  • Saab 9-3X (2002)
  • Saab 9-3 Sport Hatch (2003)
  • Saab 9-5 Aero BioPower (2006)
  • Saab 9-4X BioPower (2008)
  • Saab 9-X Biohybrid (2008)
  • Saab 9-X Air (2008)
  • Saab 9-3 ePower sport wagon (2010)
• Saab Aero-X (2006)
• Saab PhoeniX (2011)

Innovations

• 1958: The GT 750 became the first Saab automobile to feature seatbelts as a standard component.
• 1963: Saab pioneered the use of diagonally split dual brake circuits among volume manufacturers.
• 1969: To reduce frequent severe knee injuries caused by impact with the ignition key during collisions, Saab positioned the ignition system near the gear lever rather than behind the steering wheel.
• 1970: Saab introduced headlamp wipers and washers, a global first.
• 1971: Heated front seats were launched, marking the first instance of them being standard equipment worldwide.
• 1971: Development of an impact-absorbing, self-repairing bumper was achieved by Saab.
• 1976: Saab became the earliest manufacturer to produce a turbocharged engine featuring a wastegate for boost regulation.
• 1978: The company unveiled the passenger compartment air filter, commonly known as the pollen filter, another global innovation.
• 1980: Introduction of Automatic Performance Control (APC) along with an anti-knock sensor allowed improved fuel efficiency and enabled use of lower-octane fuel without engine harm.
• 1981: The split-field side mirror was implemented to reduce blind spots for drivers.
• 1982: Asbestos-free brake pads were introduced.
• 1983: Saab launched its turbocharged engine with sixteen valves.
• 1985: The company pioneered direct ignition technology, removing the need for distributors and spark plug wires.
• 1991: Introduction of a low-pressure turbocharger occurred this year.
• 1991: Saab became the first automaker to provide air conditioning systems free of CFCs.
• 1991: The 'Trionic' engine management system was developed, featuring a 32-bit microprocessor.
• 1993: The Sensonic clutch and Black Panel display, later renamed Night Panel, were introduced.
• 1993: Development of the 'Safeseat' system enhanced rear passenger protection.
• 1994: Launch of the Trionic T5.5 engine management system occurred, utilizing a Motorola 68332 processor.
• 1995: At the Frankfurt Motor Show, Saab showcased an asymmetrically turbocharged V6 engine.
• 1996: Active head restraints (SAHR) were introduced to minimize whiplash injuries.
• 1997: Electronic Brake-force Distribution was implemented.
• 1997: Ventilated front seats were added to the new Saab 9-5 model.
• 1997: ComSense technology debuted; it delays lower-priority alerts when brakes or indicators are engaged to reduce driver distraction risk.
• 2000: Introduction of the Saab Variable Compression engine, which varies compression ratio by tilting the cylinder head relative to pistons, took place.
• 2002: The new Saab 9-3 featured "ReAxs," an independent multi-link rear suspension system delivering precise steering feedback and enhanced stability in curves.
• 2002: The second-generation Active Head Restraint system, SAHR2, was unveiled in the Saab 9-3 sedan.
• 2003: CargoSET was introduced, offering automatic storage well retraction for convertibles with a two-step tonneau operation for faster soft-top deployment.
• 2008: Cross-wheel drive (XWD), an advanced all-wheel-drive system incorporating electronic limited slip differential technology, was launched.

Safety

The design of Saab vehicles places a strong emphasis on safety. To address common accident causes in Sweden, Saab cars undergo the Älgtest (elk test), which simulates encounters with elk—frequent contributors to traffic incidents. Saab has assembled a comprehensive database documenting over 6,100 real-world accidents involving their vehicles. The earliest recorded case dates back to 1948, involving Julian Shermis.

Endurance records

In October 1986, the Saab Long Run event was held, where three unmodified Saab 9000 Turbos established two world records along with 21 international records at the Talladega Superspeedway in Talladega, Alabama, USA. They covered 100,000 km (62,000 mi) at an average velocity of 213.299 km/h (132.537 mph) and 50,000 miles (80,000 km) maintaining an average speed of 213.686 km/h (132.778 mph).

A decade later, in 1996, a team consisting of three factory test drivers operating standard Saab 900 (NG) Turbos and two journalists driving naturally aspirated Saab 900s set new world records on the same track.

In early December 2006, a traveling salesman from Wisconsin donated his 1989 Saab 900 SPG (Special Performance Group) to the Wisconsin Automotive Museum after accumulating 1,001,385 miles (1,611,573 km) on its original factory engine. This mileage was officially confirmed by Saab.

Marketing and ownership

File:SaabPerformanceTeam.jpg

Saab Performance Team at Linköping, in 1997 (Saab 91 Safirs in background)

Established in 1937 as Svenska Aeroplan AB (Saab), the company initially manufactured aircraft before introducing its first automobile, the Saab 92001, in 1947. Today, Saab AB operates independently from Saab Automobile and is renowned for its historic Saab 37 Viggen fighter jet—the Viggen emblem was also used for the Saab 9-3—and its successor, the successful export model low-cost JAS 39 Gripen multirole fighter aircraft. This heritage inspired the advertising slogan "Born From Jets," reflecting Saab's dual legacy in aviation and automotive industries. Saab vehicles are distributed worldwide, each market managed by a subsidiary or importer president; in the United States, the initial president was Mr. R. Millet.

In 1983, British commercial director Tony Scott produced an advertisement featuring a Saab 900 Turbo racing against a Saab 37 Viggen fighter jet. Four years later, in 1987, Saab released a television commercial titled "Saab suite" (subtitled Ballet in 3 acts for 8 Saab 9000 Turbos). The film showcased skilled stunt drivers performing remarkable maneuvers with stock vehicles on a closed airport runway set to classical music—including one-wheeled burnouts, tight bumper-to-bumper slaloms from opposing directions, two-wheel driving techniques, high-speed slides, and jumps over other cars.

To mark its 40th anniversary in 1987, Saab established a Performance Team that performed exhibitions featuring precision driving and automotive stunts. Initially utilizing Saab 9000s as demonstrated above, they later incorporated models such as the Saab 900 (NG). All five members had rally experience but uniquely maintained regular positions within Saab: two engineers, a quality controller, a technician, and the head of the company’s photo studio. The accompanying image captures these vehicles displayed during the Diamond Jubilee festivities of Saab Aircraft Company held in Linköping in 1997.

A Hewlett-Packard CPU-support chip includes an etched depiction of a Saab 900 Turbo 16 Cabriolet within its design structure.

Ownership and brand loyalty

Due to Saab's distinctive presence in numerous markets, its owners are often equally unconventional, frequently comprising intellectuals and devoted enthusiasts. In his research on brand communities, Albert Muniz, a marketing professor at DePaul University in Chicago, identified key traits among Saab drivers, coining the term Snaabery. These traits include owning an original Saab model from before the General Motors era, a strong sense of fellowship with fellow Saab owners, and a marked disdain for rival brands such as BMW. Journalist John Crace depicted the archetypal "Snaab" as a creative advertising professional sporting large glasses and an asymmetric hairstyle. Psychologist Rüdiger Hossiep from Ruhr University Bochum discovered that Saab drivers exhibit the highest psychological attachment to their vehicles, demonstrating enthusiasm over ten times greater than that of an average Volkswagen owner. Saab's primary markets consisted of Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Slogans

• The Swedish Car with Aircraft Quality (first English slogan)
• Go Swift – Go Safe – Go Saab (advertisement featured in 1970s FIA Year Book)
• The most intelligent cars ever built. (1980s)
• Find your own road. (1990s)
• A Saab will surrender its own life to save yours. (1990s)
• Welcome to the State of Independence (early 2000s; United States)
• Born From Jets. (2003–2009; United States and Canada)
• Move Your Mind. (final global slogan)
• People Who Test Drive a Saab, Usually Buy One
• It's A Pity Other Cars Aren't Built This Way
• We don't make compromises. We make Saabs.
• Saab. It's what a car should be.
• Beyond the conventional (1990s; United Kingdom)
• The Command Performance Car.
• The Well-Built Swede

In motorsport

In 1966, Saab took part in the Trans Am Series by entering both a 96 and an 850. Additionally, the brand competed with its 9-3 model in the Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship.

Saab maintained a factory-backed rally squad featuring notable drivers such as Erik "On-the-Roof" Carlsson, Tom Trana, Simo Lampinen, Stig Blomqvist, and Per Eklund. This official team ceased its rally involvement in 1980. However, in 2012, a revived Saab rally outfit participated in the historic Midnattssolsrallyt (Rally to the Midnight Sun). The S2AB Historic Rally team fielded four Saab 99 Turbos, piloted by former champions Ola Strömberg, Erik Uppsäll, Travis Decker, and Jörgen Trued. S2AB (Swedish Advanced Automotive Business) is managed by Magnus Roland, who previously served as Saab's chassis manager.

See also

• Barber Saab Pro Series
• Saab Car Museum
• Saab hockey stick
• Saab Turbo Mobil Challenge
• Saab XWD
• Talbot Horizon – succeeded the Saab 96 on the Valmet production line and shared numerous components, particularly within the interior
• Trionic 8

Bibliography

• Template:Cole-CCA

External links

• Archived official site (13 April 2013)
• Media repository related to Saab
• Official Saab Parts website
• Collection of Saab news articles since 1984 (The New York Times)