In Sweden, the ‘Receivers of the Saab Automobile bankruptcy estate’ have signed an agreement to sell the main assets of the company to a Japanese/Swedish/Chinese electric vehicle consortium called National Electric Vehicle Sweden AB (NEVS).
While intellectual property rights for the Saab 9-5, owned by General Motors, are not included, NEVS plans to commence production of an electric version of the current Saab 9-3 at the Trollhattan plant by the end of next year.
As well, NEVS will develop an all-new electric vehicle and says it plans to be a global player with much sales focus in major markets such as China. Currently the company is commencing recruitment for key positions including skilled engineers.
The majority shareholder in NEVS is the Chinese company national Modern Energy Holdings whose founder Kai Johan Jiang, said: “China is investing heavily in developing the EV market, which is a key driver for the ongoing technology shift to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Chinese customers demand a premium electric vehicle, which we will be able to offer by acquiring Saab Automobile in Trollhattan.”
The news has no impact on Australian Saab owners as Saab Automobile Parts AB, responsible for global sales and distribution of Saab components was not included in the sale. Saab Automobile Parts AB has a global network of 1200 authorized workshops, including 23 in Australia and New Zealand.
According to Stephen Nicholls, managing director of Saab Cars Australia, the 37,000 Saab owners in Australia and New Zealand will still be able to received genuine parts, service and technical support.
