Is Saab Still in Business? The Phoenix That Never Quite Rose

The short answer? No, Saab Automobile AB, the Swedish car manufacturer, is not still in business in the way most people understand it. Production ceased in 2011, and the company declared bankruptcy shortly after. However, the spirit of Saab, and some of its assets, live on in complex and fascinating ways.

The Rise and Fall: A Brief History

Saab’s story is one of innovation, quirky design, and ultimately, financial hardship. Born from Svenska Aeroplan Aktiebolaget (SAAB), an aerospace and defense company, the car division officially began in 1947. The first Saab, the 92, was a radical departure from anything else on the road. This penchant for ingenuity continued throughout Saab’s history, with features like turbocharging, ignition placement between the seats, and headlamp washers becoming hallmarks of the brand.

For decades, Saab enjoyed a loyal following, particularly in regions that valued safety, reliability, and individuality. However, the brand struggled to compete with larger automakers. General Motors acquired a 50% stake in Saab in 1990 and took full ownership in 2000. Under GM’s ownership, Saab experienced a mix of successes and failures, but never achieved sustained profitability. The 2008 financial crisis proved to be a fatal blow. GM, facing its own financial woes, decided to sell Saab.

After a series of failed attempts to secure a buyer, including a controversial deal with Spyker Cars, Saab declared bankruptcy in December 2011. This marked the apparent end of the Saab automotive brand. But the story doesn’t end there.

The Aftermath: What Happened to Saab?

Following the bankruptcy, Saab’s assets were acquired by National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS) in 2012. NEVS initially intended to revive Saab as an electric vehicle manufacturer. They even briefly restarted production of the Saab 9-3 under the NEVS name in 2013 and 2014. However, NEVS struggled with funding and licensing issues, and the “Saab” name was no longer available to them for car production due to the aerospace company SAAB AB blocking the use of their brand name.

NEVS eventually rebranded itself as “simply NEVS” and shifted its focus to developing electric vehicles and mobility solutions under its own branding. They continue to operate, albeit without the iconic Saab name or heritage.

The Ghost of Saab: Parts and Service

While new Saab cars are no longer being manufactured, parts and service support remain available. A dedicated network of independent Saab specialists and parts suppliers still cater to the needs of Saab owners worldwide. Companies like Orio AB, the former Saab Automobile Parts AB, continue to supply genuine Saab parts and provide technical support for existing vehicles. Therefore, maintaining a classic Saab is still very much possible, albeit requiring more effort than maintaining a more contemporary vehicle.

Legacy and the Lingering Allure

Even though Saab is no longer in business, its legacy endures. The cars are remembered for their distinctive design, innovative features, and a certain je ne sais quoi that appealed to a particular type of driver. Saab’s influence can still be seen in some modern car designs and engineering solutions. The brand remains a cult favorite, with dedicated owners clubs and online communities keeping the Saab spirit alive. The very mention of turbocharging instantly brings the old Saab models to people’s minds.

The dream of a fully electric Saab revival has faded, but the brand’s impact on automotive history is undeniable. Saab proved that cars could be different, that they could prioritize safety and innovation over convention. And while the Saab Automobile company is gone, its vehicles continue to grace the roads, a testament to the enduring power of good design and a loyal following.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Saab

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the situation surrounding Saab:

1. Can I Still Buy a New Saab?

No, you cannot buy a brand-new Saab automobile. Production ceased in 2011 with the company’s bankruptcy. Any “new” Saabs available would be leftover models from before the bankruptcy, and therefore quite old.

2. Are Saab Cars Reliable?

Historically, Saabs were known for their reliability, particularly their engines. However, the reliability of older Saabs will depend on their maintenance history and the availability of parts. Certain models, like the Saab 900 and 9-5, have a reputation for longevity.

3. Is it Difficult to Find Parts for a Saab?

While not as easy as finding parts for mainstream brands, Saab parts are still available. Companies like Orio AB specialize in supplying genuine Saab parts, and a network of independent specialists can source or fabricate parts as needed. Online resources and Saab owners clubs are also valuable sources for finding parts and information.

4. What is NEVS and What is its Relation to Saab?

NEVS (National Electric Vehicle Sweden) acquired Saab Automobile’s assets after its bankruptcy in 2012. NEVS initially attempted to revive Saab as an electric vehicle manufacturer but faced licensing issues. They now operate as simply NEVS, focusing on electric vehicles and mobility solutions under their own branding, without the Saab name.

5. Is Saab the Same Company as SAAB AB (Aerospace)?

SAAB AB is an aerospace and defense company that was the parent company of Saab Automobile in the beginning. When Saab Automobile went bankrupt, SAAB AB blocked NEVS from using the “Saab” name for car production. The two companies are now entirely separate entities.

6. What Were Some of Saab’s Most Innovative Features?

Saab was known for several innovative features, including turbocharging, ignition placement between the seats, headlamp washers, advanced safety features like reinforced roll cages and crumple zones, and direct ignition.

7. Why Did Saab Go Bankrupt?

Saab’s bankruptcy was due to a combination of factors, including financial difficulties under GM ownership, the 2008 financial crisis, and failed attempts to secure a viable buyer. GM’s own financial struggles forced it to divest from Saab, and subsequent deals fell through.

8. Are Saab Cars Safe?

Saab had a strong reputation for safety. They pioneered many safety features that are now standard in modern cars. Saab vehicles consistently performed well in safety tests.

9. Where Were Saab Cars Manufactured?

Most Saab cars were manufactured in Trollhättan, Sweden. This was the home of Saab’s primary production facility.

10. Are There Still Saab Owners Clubs?

Yes, there are active Saab owners clubs around the world. These clubs provide a community for Saab enthusiasts, offer technical support, and organize events.

11. What is the Future of the Saab Brand?

The future of the Saab brand, as an automotive manufacturer, is highly uncertain. While the name could potentially be revived by another company in the future, there are currently no concrete plans to do so.

12. What Makes Saab Cars Unique?

Saab cars were unique due to their distinctive Scandinavian design, innovative engineering, emphasis on safety, and quirky features. They appealed to drivers who valued individuality and a different approach to automotive design. The turbocharged engines also offered a unique driving experience.