Saab News Blog

Across the third quarter of this year, a 1898 Saab 900 SPG got a record of having been driven for a million miles. It is 1,001,385 to be exact. The Saab vehicle is owned by a traveling salesman, Peter Gilbert. As a travel salesman, it is not surprising that his Saab ran for over a million miles over the span of time that he went about with his job. A million miles over the span over 17 years is really something. With that distance, Gilbert could have already traveled 40 times around the earth.

What is even more striking is that the 1898 Saab 900 SPG did not went through any major repairs. It had its Saab hood replaced and the Saab bumper due to eight deer collisions. Its Saab transmission–the Saab tune up parts–was overhauled after having a 200,000 mile run but other than this, nothing more was done to keep the Saab 900 SPG going for the past 17 years. According to Gilbert, his Saab could have lasted for another 17 years had the weather in Wisconsin not been erratic and its winters really had affected the chassis of his Saab. Gilbert’s experience of the Saab proves that Saab vehicles are truly made to last.

Source: Autoblog.com

Anniversaries signify a considerable time of existence. It testifies to the time that a certain something is able to exist in the world and is able to affect the lives of the people in it. Recently, Saab had its 60^th anniversary. In order to celebrate Saab’s 60^th anniversary, Saab aficionados from all parts of the globe gathered at the Swedish town of Trollhattan. The events lasted for four days and this included commemorating the past 60 years of Saab’s existence through the Saab Car Museum. Cars that comprise Saab’s 60 years were displayed.

For those who are not yet aware of it, the name “Saab” is an acronym for Svenska Aeroplan Aktiebolaget AB, which is also known as Swedish Aircraft Company Limited. This is because Saab first came into the world as an aircraft manufacturer. In fact, in the late 1940’s, Saab is known solely as an aircraft manufacturer. And as would be expected from an aircraft manufacturer, the first car that it designed and manufactured had a streamlined shape. The first car ever that Saab made is the Saab 92. It was designed and even the idea of it came from a team of aircraft engineers. Hence, the vehicle’s streamlined shape.

After 60 years of existing, Saab has already established a name in the automotive world. It sells for over 60 countries worldwide and its vehicles are known as luxury vehicles that provide for optimum performance. What’s distinct about Saab vehicles is that it reflects the Scandinavian culture and incorporates Saab’s aviation heritage. Among the things that Saab was able to introduce the world were advances in car safety, ergonomics, vehicles that care for the environment and enhanced performance through turbocharging that is pioneered by Saab engines.

Saab has already gone a long way in its 60 years of existence. It has not only soared the heights but also has driven its way ahead of others.

Source: Ancasternews.com

Come spring 2008, the all-time favorite Saab 9-3 will get a new look. Many are looking forward to the re-worked Saab 9-3 that apart from a new look, also features the all-wheel drive system. The all-wheel drive system, according to some is one of the finest. Upon seeing the 2008 edition of Saab 9-3, the first thing that will stand out is its unique styling. Its sides do not differ much from the present model but its frontage makes it take on a jet fighter look. It fits perfectly, not to mention is quite appropriate for Saab truly has a heritage of Swedish jet aircraft. The new model has some shades of the popular Aero X Concept, which is not bad. It has the air of something really fast, which in this case is quite true.

The new model is geared with uprated 2.8L V-6 Turbo gasoline engine. This Saab engine is said to have the capacity to work together with the all-wheel drive and can produce up to 280 horsepower. It also features the Saab XWD system that is so far exclusive to the 9-3 Aero Sport Sedan as well as on Sport Combi models. Furthermore, the new model features enhanced wheel slip management that makes it possible for the wheels to have a good run over snow or rain-drenched roads. Optional features include the use of a rear limited-slip differential that can be controlled electronically. The new model’s up to date system has two pioneering features. These are the pre-emptive engagement of the rear wheels and an active rear limited-slip differential. The former allows for the optimization of traction as well as take-off. The latter, however, allows for torque to be transferred from one rear wheel to another.

The Saab XWD has the ability to send up to 100 percent of the power generated by the engine to either the front or rear wheels. This is a feature is unique for this model and enables one to give power to the wheels that need it.

Source: Post-gazette.com

Traffic jam is a common scenario especially at peak hours. People go off from work and most of them hurry home or hurry elsewhere. As this is the case at certain times of the day, most vehicle users spend a lot of time inside their vehicles. In order to help kill waiting time, having something to listen to is a one of the options Saab users have. It is for this reason that it comes as good news that the XM Satellite Radio will come as a standard in all 2008 Saab vehicles. This means that even though the one driving or riding a Saab may spend a considerable time inside their vehicles, they’ll sure to get the latest news and the hippest sounds from their car radio.

The XM Satellite radio has a reliable satellite that delivers data services and GPS navigation systems for automotives. Apart from Saab, the XM Satellite Radio will also come as a standard for 2008 Buick and Hummer vehicles. An added feature in GM vehicles is that their owners will get the benefit of a complimentary trial period activation of their XM Satellite radio for three months. This is enough time to get to know the features of the XM before deciding on really subscribing for one.

Source: Automotiveworld.com

In order to keep its pace with time, Saab has taken on new people as part of its management. Taking new people in is only necessary if one is not to be left behind especially when it comes to new ideas and strategies as well. Saab has taken Mats Warstedt as its Director of Marketing for Saab International and Saab Industrial Corporation. This an entirely new position, which means that Mats Warstedt is the first person ever to be taken as Saab’s Director of Marketing. One take on this is that Saab has already realized the significance of having a good marketing strategy. This may be just the thing that Saab needs. They already have great performing vehicles. The next thing to do is to hire someone that will worry about boosting sales.

Another person that Saab hired is Jonas Hjelm. He took on the position of the one responsible for Government Relations. It seems that this move of Saab is one to boost its relations on both the public (specifically the market) and the government. As for the background of the hired ones, Mats Warstedt has been the business unit manager of Saab Barracuda back in 2002. As for Jonas Hjelm, he started working for Saab in December last year. Before he worked for Saab, he was the permanent secretary in the Swedish Ministry of Defense. He will start on his new position by November 1^st.

Source: Saab

Since there is nothing one can do with the law but to comply, Saab’s response to Europe’s stricter emission requirements is to come up with smaller engines. As small engines produce lesser emissions, the people in Saab thought that having a relatively small engine, which also has the capacity to generate power not quite far behind from a standard-sized engine can do the environment a big deal. Together with companies such as the Renault and Volkswagen, Saab is already doing what it can to generate such an engine. According to Jonathan Nash, who is the present Saab Great Britain’s managing director, smaller-displaced turbocharged E85 Saab engines are most likely to exist really soon.

In our world today, everything seems to be getting smaller. Cellular phones, video players that went from Betamax, VHS, Laser disc, VCD, to DVD; music players that were then LPs, then tapes, CDs, to now in digital format. As there seems to be a trend for things to go small, it is not surprising at all that the same goes for vehicles. A smaller engine that can perform as well as a regular-sized one? It sounds really good. It sounds like the perfect solution to the hazard exhaust emissions do to the environment. Currently, there exists the BioPower engines, which is relatively smaller than most engines yet are preferred by most people in Sweden. This being the case, Saab believes that a smaller engine than the BioPower can be made. The said engine should equal—if not surpass—the quality performance other engines provide. Apart from this, Jonathan Nash also mentioned that Biofuels as well as hybrid technology most probably would be the future of Saab. As what can already be seen in Saab’s as well as the world’s first fossil fuel-free vehicle (the BioPower Hybrid 9-3), the revolution when it comes to Saab engines are just endless.

Source: Autoblog.com

In line with Saab’s goal for something distinctly Saab and to be able to come up with a trademark that will set their vehicles apart from that of other brands, the company plans to produce a small SUV that manifests the “Saab trademark” by 2009. The said vehicle is rumored to be constructed at GM’s assembly plant located in Ramos, Mexico. Tagged as the 9-4X, the said vehicle is believed to be the one that will break the trend among previous Saab SUVs. Saab SUVs of the past are quite patterned with existing GM trucks. The 9-4X is Saab’s attempt to create its own SUV—in terms of looks and performance. In other words, the 9-4X is a move to break free from “re-badging existing GM trucks” to Saab SUVs. The people in Saab believe that it is about time for Saab to have its “own” SUV and the 9-4X would be it. This may also be the reason why they are not rushing with the 9-4X. It will be built in 2009 when everything about it, from the design down to its most detailed features, has been given considerable thought.

Many believe that this move of Saab is a good one. First and foremost, the market is growing. Second, it is high time to have an identity for the brand’s SUV. Word has been going around that the 9-4X will be constructed on a platform that makes use of Theta architectures from Epsilon II and the would-be introduced Cadillac BRX, which is primarily a small SUV. Upon the release of the 9-4X, it is expected to steal buyers of—as well as compete with—the Acura RDX, BMW X3 and Infiniti EX. As an estimate, the first 9-4X will be introduced at the Detroit Auto Show in January and will feature add-ons such as Saab performance parts to boost the 9-4X’s competence. The vehicle will be made available worldwide but is expected to have the appeal more to the European market.

Source: Auto123.com

Saab first introduced its Turbo X to Europe at the Frankfurt Motor Show that took place last month. As for October, the Turbo X makes an appearance in Australia as the all-wheel drive vehicle is displayed at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney. The Turbo X is said to be a testimony on Saab’s advancement when it comes to turbocharging. It features limited black edition models that bring back to mind the allure of the first black 900 Turbo.

For the time being, 30 Turbo X models are released to the Australian Saab enthusiasts. Thirty Turbo X to commemorate the 30 years that passed since Saab introduced its first turbocharged car. It happened thirty years ago at the Frankfurt Show, which is not surprising at all for Saab is a Swedish brand. Apart from the 30 Turbo X models that are made available for Australian Saab buyers, there are also 25 Sport Sedans as well as 5 SportCombi vehicles that are estimated to be shipped to Australia by June 2008.

The Turbo X features the latest from Saab’s AWD technology as well as Saab’s XWD system. Aside from this, it can generate up to 400Nm torque with its 206kW 2.8V6 Saab engine. The 30 Turbo X models will likely sell out in no time for aside from the advance technology that came into the making of it, it features active management that enables the vehicle to split the torque delivery between the axles as well as the rear wheels. As an effect, the one behind the wheel has better control of the chassis topped with the ability to tune the vehicle’s suspension that, among Saab vehicles, is quite unique to a Turbo X.

The Turbo X is only available in jet black. It has a front grille as well as an exterior that is accented by a matte grey titanium-like finish. Apart from this, it is equipped with an air intake that reduces drag and increases the engine’s overall performance.

Source: Fullboost.com

A 2008 9-7X 5.3i Sports Utility Vehicle was donated by Saab to Angel Flight West (AFW), a non-profit and charitable organization. AFW gets its financial assistance from other businesses, foundations, and contributions of individuals and volunteers.

The contribution was part of the joint venture between Saab Automobile USA and Air Charity Network (ACN). The vehicle will be used as essential land transportation for the AFW passengers. The support staff of AFW will also use the SUV when planning disaster relief activities as well as during regional promotions.

“This generous donation from Saab will greatly help us increase the awareness of Angel Flight West’s service throughout the Western United States. It is a magnificent vehicle that provides our patients, passengers and staff with a safe and comfortable way to travel when we are not in the air,” Michael Nanko said, Chief Executive Officer of AFW.

According to Saab Automobile USA General Manager Steve Shannon, “Air Charity Network provides a crucial service to people in need, and Saab is proud to support their efforts. Saab customers are traditionally very socially responsible, likewise so is Saab. By partnering with Angel Flight West, we can give back to the community in a way that complements our aircraft heritage.”

The Saab 9-7X SUV will be delivered by Saab of Santa Monica, California to AFW. Also, ACN will be included to Saab’s marketing activities as well as its logo and contact info contained in Saab sales advertising materials.

To view the entire press release about this news, visit Earth Times.