Editing Saab Automobile (section)

==History==
[[File:Ursaab.jpg|thumb|right|[[Ursaab]], the prototype for the [[Saab 92]] – Saab's first automobile]]

===Svenska Aeroplan AB (1948–1969)===
[[File:SAAB 96 De Luxe 1964.jpg|thumb|[[Saab 96]]]]
[[Saab AB|Saab]], "''S''venska ''A''eroplan [[Aktiebolag|''A''ktie''b''olaget]]" (Swedish for "Swedish aeroplane corporation"), a Swedish aerospace and defence company, was created in 1937 in [[Linköping]]. The company had been established in 1937 for the express purpose of building aircraft for the [[Swedish Air Force]] to protect the country's neutrality as Europe moved closer to [[World War II]]. As the war drew to a close and the market for fighter planes seemed to weaken, the company began looking for new markets to diversify.

An automobile design project was started in 1945 with the internal name "X9248".<ref>{{cite book |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=Ce_4UTP97ZIC&pg=PT84 |title= Cars: Freedom, Style, Sex, Power, Motion, Colour, Everything |first= Stephen |last= Bayley |publisher= Hachette |place= UK |date= February 2012 |access-date= 20 April 2012 |isbn= 9781840916065 |archive-date= 3 September 2023 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230903090214/https://books.google.com/books?id=Ce_4UTP97ZIC&pg=PT84 |url-status= live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hemmings.com/hsx/stories/2008/12/01/hmn_feature19.html |title=Sixten Sason |work=Hemmings Motor News |first=Jim |last=Donnelly |date=December 2008 |access-date=20 April 2012 |archive-date=29 July 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120729150316/http://www.hemmings.com/hsx/stories/2008/12/01/hmn_feature19.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The design project became formally known as "Project 92"; the ''92'' being next in production sequence after the [[Saab 91]], a single engine trainer aircraft.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://saabmuseum.com/en/saab-model/ursaab/ |title= Ursaab |work= The Saab Museum |year= 2012 |access-date= 3 May 2012 |archive-date= 13 May 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120513213600/http://saabmuseum.com/en/saab-model/ursaab/ |url-status= live }}</ref> In 1948, a company site in [[Trollhättan]] was converted to allow automobile assembly and the project moved there, along with the car manufacturing headquarters, which has remained there since. The company made four prototypes named "[[Ursaab]]" or "original Saab", numbered 92001 through to 92004, before designing the production model, the [[Saab 92]], in 1949.

The Saab 92 went into production in December 1949.<ref>{{cite book |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=pI_r3ULwTkMC&pg=PA118 |title= The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Extraordinary Automobiles |page= 118 |first= Giles |last= Chapman |publisher= Dorling Kindersley |date= May 2009 |access-date= 3 May 2012 |isbn= 9781405336956 |archive-date= 19 April 2023 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230419082012/https://books.google.com/books?id=pI_r3ULwTkMC&pg=PA118 |url-status= live }}</ref> 20,000 cars were sold through the mid-1950s. The 92 was thoroughly redesigned and re-engineered in 1955, and was renamed as the "[[Saab 93]]". The car's engine gained a cylinder, going from [[Straight-twin engine|two]] to [[I3 engine|three]] and its front fascia became the first to sport the first incarnation of Saab's trademark trapezoidal radiator grill. A wagon variant, the [[Saab 95]], was added in 1959.  The decade also saw Saab's first performance car, the [[Saab 94]], the first of the [[Saab Sonett]]s.

1960 saw the third major revision to the 92's platform as the [[Saab 96]]. The 96 was an important model for Saab: it was the first Saab to be widely exported out of Sweden. The unusual vehicle proved very popular, selling nearly 550,000 examples. Unlike American cars of the day, the 93, 95 and 96 all featured the 3-cylinder 2-cycle engine, which required adding oil to the petrol tank, front-wheel drive, and freewheeling, which allowed the driver to downshift the on-the-column manual shifter without using the clutch. Front seat shoulder belts were also an early feature.{{citation needed|date = May 2017}}

Even more important to the company's fortunes was 1968's [[Saab 99]]. The 99 was the first all-new Saab in 19 years and a clean break from the 92. The 99 had many innovations and features that would come to define Saabs for decades: wraparound windscreen, self-repairing bumpers, headlamp washers and side-impact door beams. The design by [[Sixten Sason]] was no less revolutionary than the underlying technology, and elements like the [[Saab hockey stick]] profile graphic continue to influence Saab's design language.{{citation needed|date = May 2017}}

===Saab-Scania (1969–1989)===
[[File:Saab 99 (20150511-DSC05049).JPG|thumb|The [[Saab 99]] was launched in 1969 as an all-new design.]]
{{Main|Saab-Scania}}

In 1969, Saab AB merged with the Swedish commercial vehicle manufacturer [[Scania (company)|Scania-Vabis AB]] to form Saab-Scania AB, under the [[Wallenberg family]] umbrella.

The 99 range was expanded in 1973 with the addition of a combi coupe model, a body style which became synonymous with Saab. The millionth Saab automobile was produced in 1976.

Saab entered into an agreement with [[Fiat]] in 1978 to sell a [[badge engineering|rebadged]] [[Lancia Delta]] as the [[Saab 600]] and jointly develop a new platform. The agreement yielded 1985's [[Saab 9000]], sister to the [[Alfa Romeo 164]], [[Fiat Croma]] and [[Lancia Thema]]; all rode atop a common [[Type Four chassis]]. The 9000 was Saab's first proper luxury car but failed to achieve the planned sales volume.

1978 also was the first year for the 99's replacement: the [[Saab 900]]. Nearly one million 900s would be produced, making it Saab's best-selling and most iconic model.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.autoweek.com/article/20110513/CARNEWS/110519910 |title=Iconic Saab 900 convertible turns 25 |first=Michelle |last=Koueiter |work=Autoweek |date=13 May 2011 |access-date=3 May 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121101100701/http://www.autoweek.com/article/20110513/CARNEWS/110519910 |archive-date=1 November 2012 }}</ref> A popular convertible version followed in 1986, all of which were made at the [[Valmet Automotive|Saab-Valmet]] factory in [[Finland]], making up nearly 20% of 900 sales. Even today, the "classic 900" retains a cult following.
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===General Motors and Investor AB (1989–2000)===
[[File:1st Gen Saab 9-5 Wagon 1.27.18.jpg|left|thumb|[[Saab 9-5]]]]
[[File:1992 SAAB 900S (37731253996).jpg|thumb|[[Saab 900]]]]

In 1989, the Saab car division of Saab-Scania was restructured into an independent company, Saab Automobile AB, headquartered in Sweden; [[General Motors]] and [[Investor AB]] controlled 50% each. GM's investment of US$600 million gave it the option to acquire the remaining shares within a decade. In the fall of 1989 Saab opened a {{ill|new factory|sv|Saab-fabriken i Malmö}} in [[Malmö]]. Located in the old [[Saab Kockums|Kockums shipyard]], this was a novel kind of factory with extensive worker control and a focus on workers' comfort, an effort to increase productivity and retain skilled workers. With an annual capacity of 60,000 cars (to be increased to 90,000 cars by 1995), the factory began production at a time of shrinking sales and economic contraction and only built 10,176 cars in 1990 (the only full year of production).<ref name=TV0591.18>{{cite magazine | ref = CJ91 | title = Drömfabriken blev mardröm | trans-title = The dream factory became a nightmare | language = sv | magazine = [[Teknikens Värld]] | publisher = Specialtidningsförlaget AB | location = Stockholm, Sweden | page = 18 | date = 7 March 1991 | issue = 5 | volume = 43 | editor-first = Claes | editor-last = Johansson }}</ref> After a review by GM, the factory changed over to a standard [[assembly line]] but was nonetheless shuttered in June 1991, after 20,664 cars had been built in about two years.<ref name="TV1591.15">{{cite magazine | title = Allt om bilen: PS | trans-title = All about cars: PS | language = sv | magazine = [[Teknikens Värld]] | publisher = Specialtidningsförlaget AB | location = Stockholm, Sweden | page = 15 | date = 8 August 1991 | issue = 15 | volume = 43 | editor-first = Claes | editor-last = Johansson }}</ref>

General Motors' involvement spurred the launch of a [[Saab 900 (NG)|new 900]] in 1994. The new car shared a platform with the [[Opel Vectra]]. Due in large part to its success, Saab earned a profit in 1995 for the first time in seven years. However, the model never achieved the cult following of the "classic 900" and did not achieve the same reputation for quality.

1997 marked Saab's 50th anniversary as a car manufacturer. The company used its jubilee owners' convention to launch a replacement for the aging 9000: the [[Saab 9-5]]. The 900 received a facelift and renaming complementary to its new larger sibling: it would now be called the [[Saab 9-3]]. The 9-5 was the first Saab without a combi coupé body style option in 20 years. Filling that space was a wagon variant, introduced in 1999.
{{clear}}

===General Motors (2000–2010)===
[[File:2002 Saab 9-3 Aero 5-door hatchback (2012-09-01) 01.jpg|thumb|left|Saab 9-3 Evo]]

GM exercised its option to acquire the remaining Saab shares in 2000, spending US$125&nbsp;million to turn the company into a wholly owned subsidiary.

The new close relationship yielded its first product in 2003's all-new 9–3. The new model, marketed as a sport sedan, dropped Saab's iconic hatchback in favour of a more conventional four-door approach. The model shared a co-developed platform (GM's "global Epsilon 1 platform") and some other components with the Opel Vectra again, but the relationship was much more of a joint engineering effort than before.

Under GM's direction, the [[Badge engineering|badge-engineered]] [[Subaru Impreza (second generation)#Saab 9-2X|Saab 9-2X]] (based on the [[Subaru Impreza]]) and [[Saab 9-7X]] (based on the [[Chevrolet Trailblazer (Mid-size SUV)|Chevrolet Trailblazer]]) were introduced in the American market in 2005 with the hope of increasing sales. Both models were a critical and commercial failure and were cancelled a few years after production began. GM also delayed the 9-3 wagon by three years, shelved a hatchback derivative of the 9-3 sedan, stalled plans for all-wheel-drive capabilities in Saab models until 2008, cancelled a 9–5 replacement in 2005, and announced a planned shift of production away from Saab's historic home in Trollhättan to [[Opel]]'s factory in [[Rüsselsheim]].

[[File:Saab 9-3 SportCombi II 1.9 TiD Facelift front 20100509.jpg|thumb|[[Saab 9-3]] sport combi]]

Owing to fading fortunes across its entire business due to a slowing economy in 2007, GM announced that the Saab brand was "under review" in December 2008, a process which included the possibility of selling or shuttering the car maker.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.caradvice.com.au/20431/gm-struggles-to-sell-saab/|title=GM struggles to sell SAAB|date=9 January 2009|first=Matt|last=Brogan|website=www.caradvice.com.au|access-date=23 May 2020|archive-date=5 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805200922/https://www.caradvice.com.au/20431/gm-struggles-to-sell-saab/|url-status=live}}</ref>

As the talks progressed, GM's support receded, and Saab went into [[Administration (law)|administration]], the Swedish equivalent of America's [[Chapter 11, Title 11, United States Code|Chapter 11 bankruptcy]]. Saab's managing director [[Jan-Åke Jonsson]] said that this was "the best way to create a truly independent entity that is ready for investment".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/7901027.stm |title=Saab aims to survive without GM |work=[[BBC News]] |date=20 February 2009 |publisher=[[British Broadcasting Corporation|BBC]] |location=[[London, England|London]] |access-date=21 February 2015 |archive-date=23 February 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090223224433/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/7901027.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> For its part, the Swedish government was reluctant to become involved, with [[Maud Olofsson]], industry minister, stating: "The Swedish state and taxpayers in Sweden will not own car factories. Sometimes you get the impression that this is a small, small company but it is the world's biggest automaker so we have a right to make demands."<ref name="Times Online">{{Cite news|url=http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/article5757562.ece|title=Saab may go bust in 10 days, warns GM|access-date=18 February 2009|newspaper=The Times (Online)|location=London|first=Robin|last=Pagnamenta|date=18 February 2009|archive-date=12 June 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110612111911/http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/article5757562.ece|url-status=dead}}</ref>

[[File:Saab Aero-X Concept Car (195993839).jpg|left|thumb|[[Saab Aero-X]]]]

On 16 June 2009, [[Koenigsegg]] announced its intention to purchase the brand from GM.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8102432.stm |title=GM agrees Saab sale to Koenigsegg |work=[[BBC News]] |date=16 June 2009 |publisher=[[British Broadcasting Corporation|BBC]] |location=[[London, England|London]] |access-date=21 February 2015 |archive-date=3 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230903090218/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/8102432.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> The bid was backed by a group of Norwegian investors and the Chinese car maker [[Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co Ltd]] (BAIC). The following month, both parties announced that GM had consented to the deal. There were outstanding financial details, but a loan from the [[European Investment Bank]] was expected to cover them. The loan was approved in October, but on 24 November 2009, Koenigsegg announced that it had "come to the painful and difficult conclusion that it could no longer carry out the acquisition"<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dn.se/ekonomi/forsaljningen-av-saab-avbryts-1.1001491 |first=Kent |last=Johansson |title=Saabaffären avbryts |trans-title=Saab deal is canceled |work=Dagens Nyheter |access-date=24 November 2009 |language=sv |archive-date=25 November 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091125184250/http://www.dn.se/ekonomi/forsaljningen-av-saab-avbryts-1.1001491 |url-status=dead }}</ref> much because of the constant delays and the difficulties coordinating the involved parties: GM, the European Investment Bank, the [[Swedish National Debt Office]] and BAIC.

[[File:2011 Saab 9-5 UWS.jpg|thumb|Second generation [[Saab 9-5]]]]

It was announced on 14 December 2009, that the Chinese car manufacturer would acquire the intellectual property rights and production equipment for the previous generation Saab 9-3 and Saab 9–5 in a deal worth about US$197 million, which was enough for the company to run for three months.<ref name="nytimes.com">{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/14/business/global/14saab.html?_r=2&adxnnl=1&fta=y&adxnnlx=1264683735-klBHZSxkj3IFz79enPtTRQ |title=Chinese Company Seeks to Make Old Saab Models |access-date=28 January 2010 |newspaper=New York Times |first=Nelson D. |last=Schwartz |date=14 December 2009 |archive-date=1 July 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170701090833/http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/14/business/global/14saab.html?_r=2&adxnnl=1&fta=y&adxnnlx=1264683735-klBHZSxkj3IFz79enPtTRQ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="www.reuters.com">{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSLDE5BD2E920091214|title=BAIC paid $197 mln for Saab assets – paper|access-date=28 January 2010|work=Reuters|date=14 December 2009|archive-date=29 July 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100729203850/http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSLDE5BD2E920091214|url-status=live}}</ref> BAIC expressed its intention to create a new brand around the purchased technology and admitted to the purchase of "three overall vehicle platforms, two engine technologies and two transmission systems."<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTOE5BM00Z20091223?type=marketsNews |title=UPDATE 3-BAIC in overdrive to develop brand with Saab tech |work=Reuters |date=10 December 2009 |access-date=23 December 2009 |archive-date=8 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308153253/https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTOE5BM00Z20091223?type=marketsNews |url-status=live }}</ref>

Following the collapse of talks with Koenigsegg, GM announced that the brand would be eliminated in 2010 if it failed to secure a buyer before the close of 2009.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/ef4cd388-df2f-11de-be8e-00144feab49a.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20221211/http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/ef4cd388-df2f-11de-be8e-00144feab49a.html |archive-date=11 December 2022 |url-status=live |title=Dutch sports car maker in Saab talks |first1=John |last1=Reed |first2=Andrew |last2=Ward |newspaper=Financial Times |date=3 December 2009 |access-date=21 February 2015 |url-access=subscription }}</ref> As talks with several firms failed, including the Netherlands-based boutique sports car maker Spyker, GM formally announced its intention to wind down the Saab brand.<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/8421007.stm |title=GM to 'wind down' Saab business |work=BBC News |date=18 December 2009 |access-date=18 December 2009 |archive-date=19 December 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091219052551/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/8421007.stm |url-status=live }}</ref>

Undeterred, a new offer round materialised. Earlier bidders Spyker and Merbanco revised their offers and were joined by a submission from Luxembourg-based [[Genii Capital]], which boasted the support of F1 chief [[Bernie Ecclestone]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8447365.stm |title=Bernie Ecclestone joins bid to buy Saab |work=[[BBC News]] |date=8 January 2010 |publisher=[[British Broadcasting Corporation|BBC]] |location=[[London, England|London]] |access-date=21 February 2015 |archive-date=3 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230903090218/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8447365.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> GM continued accepting bids until a self-imposed deadline of 7 January 2010. Acknowledging that the chances of reaching a deal with any party were very slim, they pledged to evaluate each offer with due diligence.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://autoweek.com/article/car-news/spyker-makes-new-offer-saab-general-motors-will-evaluate |title=Spyker makes a new offer for Saab; General Motors will evaluate |first=Paul |last=McVeigh |work=Autoweek |date=19 December 2009 |access-date=21 February 2015 |archive-date=22 February 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150222003406/http://autoweek.com/article/car-news/spyker-makes-new-offer-saab-general-motors-will-evaluate |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="reuters.com">{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSSAT00829120100108|title=Saab wind-up begins, GM still reviewing bids|access-date=9 January 2010|work=Reuters|date=8 January 2010|archive-date=25 May 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100525012828/http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSSAT00829120100108|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Spyker/Swedish Automobile (2010–2011)===
{{Further|Saab Automobile bankruptcy}}

====2010 – purchase of Saab====
On 26 January, General Motors (GM) confirmed it had agreed to sell Saab to [[Spyker N.V.]]<ref>{{cite news |place=UK |url=http://www.autocar.co.uk/News/NewsArticle/AllCars/246896/ |title=Saab sale – full details |work=Autocar |date=26 January 2010 |access-date=15 April 2017 |archive-date=1 February 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100201051321/http://www.autocar.co.uk/News/NewsArticle/AllCars/246896/ |url-status=live }}</ref> subject to regulatory and government approval; the sale was completed on 23 February 2010.<ref>{{cite press release |url = http://www.saabsunited.com/2010/02/spyker-cars-finalizes-the-purchase-of-saab.html |title = Spyker Cars finalizes the purchase of Saab |work = Saabs United |date = 24 February 2010 |access-date = 15 April 2017 |archive-date = 16 April 2017 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170416045349/https://www.saabsunited.com/2010/02/spyker-cars-finalizes-the-purchase-of-saab.html |url-status = live }}</ref> General Motors would continue to supply Saab with engines and transmissions, and also completed vehicles in the shape of the new Saab 9-4x from GM's Mexican factory. The deal included a loan from the European Investment Bank, guaranteed by the Swedish government. It comprised US$74m in cash up front, payable to GM by July 2010, and shares in Spyker to the tune of US$320m.

====2011 – bankruptcy====
On 25 February, Spyker Cars N.V. announced that it had agreed to sell the sports car arm to focus on Saab. Spyker intended to change its name, in May, to include the Saab name.<ref>{{cite news|last=Kinnander|first=Ola|title=Spyker to Sell Sports-Car Unit to Vladimir Antonov to Focus on Saab Brand|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-02-24/spyker-agrees-to-sell-sports-car-unit-to-vladimir-antonov-to-reduce-debt.html|publisher=Bloomberg|access-date=8 March 2011|date=24 February 2011|archive-date=27 February 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110227070411/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-02-24/spyker-agrees-to-sell-sports-car-unit-to-vladimir-antonov-to-reduce-debt.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

In early 2011, Saab began to run out of money, and Spyker were not able to cover the losses. Both companies stopped paying bills, and on 30 March several suppliers refused further deliveries to Saab's factory in Trollhättan. Initially Spyker CEO Victor Muller blamed the media for the problems, and claimed that Saab had no problems with funding.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.svd.se/naringsliv/saab-nacka_6063513.svd |title=Muller: 'Saab lever i ett glashus' |trans-title=Muller: "Saab lives in a glass house" |first=Leif |last=Petersen |work=SvD Näringsliv |date=4 April 2011 |access-date=21 February 2015 |language=sv |archive-date=31 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141231105235/http://www.svd.se/naringsliv/saab-nacka_6063513.svd |url-status=live }}</ref> On 5 April all production was halted at Saab's plant in Trollhättan.

Spyker CEO Victor Muller tried to obtain funding from several different sources. On 30 March his former sponsor, Russian banker Vladimir Antonov, applied to Swedish authorities, the EIB and General Motors for permission to become a shareholder in Saab. His request was denied by the EIB, citing concerns about his business practices.

On 3 May, a joint venture between Saab and Chinese carmaker [[Hawtai]] was announced. This deal quickly unraveled and on 12 May Hawtai walked away from Saab.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.svd.se/naringsliv/saab-avtal-skrotas_6158719.svd |title=Saab-avtal med Hawtai skrotas |trans-title=Saab agreement with Hawtai scrapped |first=Carolina |last=Neurath |work=SvD Näringsliv |date=12 May 2011 |access-date=21 February 2015 |language=sv |archive-date=31 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141231103707/http://www.svd.se/naringsliv/saab-avtal-skrotas_6158719.svd |url-status=live }}</ref>

Plans for a new joint venture with Chinese carmaker [[Youngman]] and Chinese automotive retailer [[Pang Da]] followed shortly. After months of negotiations the companies agreed to a joint US$140&nbsp;million takeover of Saab Automobile and its UK dealer network unit from [[Swedish Automobile]], with Youngman and Pang Da taking 60 and 40&nbsp;percent stakes respectively.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/29/business/global/chinese-carmakers-to-buy-saab-pulling-it-back-from-the-brink.html|title=Saab Sputters On, Saved by 2 Chinese Automakers|access-date=29 October 2011|work=The New York Times|date=28 October 2011|first=David|last=Jolly|archive-date=29 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111029015834/http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/29/business/global/chinese-carmakers-to-buy-saab-pulling-it-back-from-the-brink.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.reuters.com/article/us-saab-idUSTRE79R1MZ20111028 |title= Sweden's Saab heads for Chinese owners after rescue bid |access-date= 29 October 2011 |publisher= Reuters |date= 28 October 2011 |archive-date= 28 October 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20111028204436/http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/10/28/us-saab-idUSTRE79R1MZ20111028 |url-status= live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-15490773 |title= Saab chief Victor Muller reflects on sale of car maker |access-date= 29 October 2011 |publisher= BBC |work= News |date= 28 October 2011 |archive-date= 3 September 2023 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230903090220/https://www.bbc.com/news/business-15490773 |url-status= live }}</ref>

On 6 December, GM announced that it would not continue its licenses to GM patents and technology to Saab if the company was sold to Pang Da and Zhejiang Youngman, stating that the new owner's use of the technology is not in the best interest of GM investors. Because of this, Saab started working on a new proposal which would not change the original ownership structure and would not include a Chinese partner as an owner of the company, but instead as a 50% owner of a new daughter company.

On 19 December 2011, with no alternatives left after GM continued to block any form of involvement with a Chinese partner, Saab officially filed for bankruptcy after a three-year fight for survival. Under Sweden's bankruptcy laws, a party that files for bankruptcy can be bought out of bankruptcy.

On 16 April 2012, a meeting on Saab's bankruptcy was held at the District Court of Vänersborg.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://en.konkursboet.se/ |title=Saab bankruptcy site |work=Konkursboet |date=December 2011 |access-date=13 April 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120422092741/http://en.konkursboet.se/ |archive-date=22 April 2012 }}</ref> The official receivers in charge of the Saab liquidation valued the assets at US$500m and the debt at US$2,000m. After subtracting the value of the assets, Saab leaves a debt of US$1,500m.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052702303772904577335704135209644 |title=Saab Auto Left $2 Billion in Debts |newspaper=Wall Street Journal |date=April 2012 |access-date=27 April 2012 |first=Christina |last=Zander |archive-date=30 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160130083425/http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052702303772904577335704135209644 |url-status=live }}</ref>

====2012 – US$3 billion damages claim====
On 6 August 2012, Spyker, represented by the law firm [[Patton Boggs]], filed a lawsuit against General Motors in the United States District Court of the Eastern District of Michigan claiming US$3&nbsp;[[1000000000 (number)|billion]] in damages for the actions GM took in the fall of 2011 to stop the various proposed deals between Spyker and [[Youngman]] concerning Saab Automobile where Youngman claimed to be ready to invest several billion dollars in Saab Automobile to guarantee its future. More precisely, under the Automotive Technology License Agreement (ATLA) between GM Global Technology Operations Inc (GTO) and Saab, GM refused licensing of the platforms and technology in Saab cars if any Chinese party were to be involved in Saab's ownership structure.

To solve this issue, Spyker and Youngman came up with a deal where Youngman would provide Saab with a loan of €200 million which would be converted into an equity interest in Saab only after Saab ceased using GM technology in its vehicles. Despite this, GM maintained that it would still refuse licensing of platforms and technology needed for production of Saab cars in Trollhättan and also threatened to cease 9-4X production at GM's plant in Mexico, should the deal go through.

Consequently, the deal finally collapsed and Saab was forced to file for bankruptcy. According to Spyker, the actions taken by GM were not legal. Since Saab had been in receivership since the bankruptcy, and would be until the deal with Nevs was closed, Spyker and the receivers of Saab Automobile had entered into an agreement where Spyker would bear the costs of the litigation in exchange for 90% of the claim if the case is successful.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://hugin.info/ |title=Complaint: Saab Automobile AB & Spyker N.V. v. General Motors Company |work=Patton Boggs LLP |date=6 August 2012 |access-date=21 February 2015 |archive-date=23 February 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150223170553/http://hugin.info/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.spykercars.nl/?pag=50&jaar=&nid=692 |title=Spykercars |work=Spyker N.V. |year=2015 |access-date=20 October 2012 |archive-date=15 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121015122857/http://www.spykercars.nl/?pag=50&jaar=&nid=692 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.autonews.com/article/20120806/OEM/120809929/gm-sued-by-saabs-parent-company-for-blocking-reorganization?CSAuthResp=1%3A1873565060264294%3A423310%3A17%3A24%3Aapproved%3AAB97FAD06FC4A626A16CB8457CEB1B5F&= |title=GM sued by Saab's parent company for blocking reorganization |work=Autonews |date=6 August 2012 |access-date=21 February 2015 |archive-date=3 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303214824/http://www.autonews.com/article/20120806/OEM/120809929/gm-sued-by-saabs-parent-company-for-blocking-reorganization?CSAuthResp=1:1873565060264294:423310:17:24:approved:AB97FAD06FC4A626A16CB8457CEB1B5F&= |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first= Valdemar |last= Lönnroth |url= http://ttela.se/ekonomi/saab/1.1723212-spyker-stammer-gm-pa-20-miljarder-kronor |title= Spyker stämmer GM på 20 miljarder kronor |language= sv |publisher= TTELA |access-date= 20 October 2012 |archive-date= 8 August 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120808111532/http://ttela.se/ekonomi/saab/1.1723212-spyker-stammer-gm-pa-20-miljarder-kronor |url-status= dead }}</ref>

====2013 – claim dismissed ====
In June 2013, the district court dismissed the lawsuit, ruling that General Motors was within its rights to block the sale.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20130610/OEM/130619985/saab-parents-3-billion-lawsuit-versus-gm-thrown-out-by-u-s-judge#axzz2VvNFiUSV |title=Saab parent's $3 billion lawsuit versus GM thrown out by U.S. judge |work=Autonews |date=10 June 2013 |access-date=21 February 2015 |archive-date=3 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230903090228/https://www.autonews.com/article/20130610/OEM/130619985/saab-parent-s-3-billion-lawsuit-versus-gm-thrown-out-by-u-s-judge#axzz2VvNFiUSV |url-status=live }}</ref> In October 2014, the circuit court of appeals upheld the dismissal.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/auto/news/passenger-vehicle/cars/u-s-appeals-court-rules-for-gm-over-spykers-saab-sale/articleshow/44931042.cms |title=U.S. appeals court rules for GM over Spyker's Saab sale |agency=Reuters |work=[[The Economic Times]] |date=25 October 2014 |access-date=21 February 2015 |archive-date=26 January 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150126012549/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/auto/news/passenger-vehicle/cars/u-s-appeals-court-rules-for-gm-over-spykers-saab-sale/articleshow/44931042.cms |url-status=live }}</ref>

===National Electric Vehicle Sweden (2012–2014)===
{{Main|NEVS}}
[[File:Saab 9-3 Aero MY14 02.jpg|thumbnail|Saab 9-3 [[Saab Aero|Aero]] Sedan MY14 in silver colour]]

On 13 June 2012, a press conference was held announcing that the bankruptcy assets of Saab Automobile AB and its subsidiaries Saab Automobile Powertrain AB and Saab Automobile Tools AB as well as the Saab factory had been acquired by a Chinese consortium called National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.konkursboet.se/file/120613-national-electric-vehicle-sweden-ab-forvarvar-huvuddelen.pdf |title=Pressmeddelande: National Electric Vehicle Sweden AB förvärvar huvuddelen av tillgångarna i Saab Automobile |trans-title=Press Release: National Electric Vehicle Sweden AB acquires the majority of the assets of Saab Automobile |work=Konkursboet |date=13 June 2012 |access-date=21 February 2015 |language=sv |archive-date=26 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141026120553/http://www.konkursboet.se/file/120613-national-electric-vehicle-sweden-ab-forvarvar-huvuddelen.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> This company was founded by [[Hong Kong|Hong-Kong]] based [[National Modern Energy Holdings|National Modern Energy Holdings (NME)]] and [[Japan]] based Sun Investment, for the sole purpose of acquiring Saab's bankruptcy assets.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 June 2012 |title=経営破綻した「サーブ」を日中企業連合のEV会社が買収 買収合併 - 不景気.com |url=https://www.fukeiki.com/2012/06/nevs-acquire-saab.html |access-date=2 February 2024 |website=www.fukeiki.com |language=Japanese}}</ref>

Saab Automobile Parts AB was excluded in the deal and the [[Swedish National Debt Office]] would continue as an owner of that company.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.saab.com/sv-se/sweden/the-company/news/latest-news/news-column/2012-06/parts-ab-continues-as-an-independent-company/ |title=Parts AB continues as an independent company |work=Saab.com |date=13 June 2012 |access-date=20 October 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120821034327/http://www.saab.com/sv-se/sweden/the-company/news/latest-news/news-column/2012-06/parts-ab-continues-as-an-independent-company/ |archive-date=21 August 2012 }}</ref> NEVS' plan was to build only purely electric vehicles with an electric version of the current [[Saab 9-3#Second generation (2003–2014)|9-3]] model available in 2013/2014, as well as to continue development of the replacement to the 9–3, the [[Saab PhoeniX|PhoeniX]]. GM continued to refuse licensing of the technology in the Saab 9-5 and 9-4X, so these models would not be produced.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.dn.se/ekonomi/kopet-av-saab-klart/ |title=Köpet av Saab klart |trans-title=Purchase of Saab clear |newspaper=[[Dagens Nyheter]] |date=13 June 2012 |access-date=21 February 2015 |language=sv |archive-date=15 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140815092852/http://www.dn.se/ekonomi/kopet-av-saab-klart/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://ttela.se/ekonomi/saab/1.1663891-forhandlingar-om-varumarket |title=Förhandlingar om varumärket – Saab |trans-title=Negotiations for the brand – Saab |work=[[TTELA]] |date=14 June 2012 |access-date=21 February 2015 |language=sv |archive-date=17 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131217231710/http://ttela.se/ekonomi/saab/1.1663891-forhandlingar-om-varumarket |url-status=dead }}</ref>

In August 2012, [[Scania AB]] announced that the griffin logo used in both Scania's and Saab Automobile's trademark would not be allowed for use on future Saab cars with NEVS as the owner of Saab Automobile. Scania believed the logo is of high value in China and feared that it would end up in the wrong hands through the Chinese interests behind NEVS.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.svd.se/naringsliv/branscher/industri-och-fordon/scania-stoppar-varumarkesanvandning_7426266.svd |title=Ingen Gripen-symbol för Saabs nya ägare |trans-title=No griffin symbol for Saab's new owners |first=Peter |last=Alestig |work=SvD Näringsliv |date=16 August 2012 |access-date=21 February 2015 |language=sv |archive-date=26 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141026122930/http://www.svd.se/naringsliv/branscher/industri-och-fordon/scania-stoppar-varumarkesanvandning_7426266.svd |url-status=live }}</ref>

In January 2013, due to Sun Investment withdrawing from the project, NEVS announced a new deal with [[Qingdao]] Qingbo Investment Co. Ltd, for a 22% stake in the company. In return, NEVS/Saab would receive SEK 2bn, along with a production facility for models sold in China. Cars sold in North America and most of Europe would continue to be produced at Trollhättan, Sweden. The possibility of using [[Fiat Chrysler Automobiles|Fiat/Chrysler]] sourced drive train components for non- electric models was also being examined.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.saabcars.com/en/news/news-column/2013-01/qingdao-to-become-nevs-strategic-gateway-to-china-for-saab-cars/ |title=Qingdao to become NEVS' strategic gateway to China for Saab cars |work=National Electric Vehicle Sweden AB |date=8 January 2013 |access-date=21 February 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150222004605/http://www.saabcars.com/en/news/news-column/2013-01/qingdao-to-become-nevs-strategic-gateway-to-china-for-saab-cars/ |archive-date=22 February 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.saabsunited.com/2013/01/the-base-is-trollhattan-karl-erling-trogen-on-p4-vast.html |title="The base is Trollhättan" – Karl-Erling Trogen on P4 Väst |work=Saabsunited.com |date=8 January 2013 |access-date=8 January 2013 |archive-date=12 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130112002056/http://www.saabsunited.com/2013/01/the-base-is-trollhattan-karl-erling-trogen-on-p4-vast.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

On 12 August 2013, the Saab plant at [[Trollhättan]] reopened its doors to welcome back employees for preparations and restructuring of the production line. Production of the existing 9–3 would commence shortly with a new electric motor, while Saab finished the preparations for the new 9-3 Phoenix.

In September 2013, the first pre-production Saab-branded vehicle produced by NEVS rolled off of the assembly line. This model was mostly aesthetically identical to the previous Saab 9-3 and mainly used to test new components and assembly line equipment. NEVS announced a facelift of the exterior to be shown on a finalised production model. On 29 November 2013 NEVS announced that full-scale production would commence on 2 December 2013, having replaced the 20 percent of parts originally sourced from former Saab owner General Motors.<ref>{{cite news |title=Saab will resume series production of the 9-3 sedan on Monday |url=http://europe.autonews.com/article/20131129/ANE/131129860/saab-to-restart-9-3-production-monday?cciid=email-ane-daily&r=5991B8337578H2Y#axzz2m2wXDllK |newspaper=Automotive News Europe |date=29 November 2013 |access-date=29 November 2013 |archive-date=3 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230903090753/https://europe.autonews.com/article/20131129/ANE/131129860/saab-to-restart-9-3-production-two-years-after-bankruptcy#axzz2m2wXDllK |url-status=live }}</ref>

Following negotiations with parts suppliers, small-scale production of the petrol version of the Saab 9-3 resumed in December 2013, with sales focused on the Swedish and Chinese markets.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://consumerist.com/2013/12/03/saab-rises-from-the-dead-sort-of/ |title=Saab Rises From The Dead… Sort Of |first=Chris |last=Morran |work=consumerist.com |date=3 December 2013 |access-date=27 June 2014 |archive-date=1 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140501024845/http://consumerist.com/2013/12/03/saab-rises-from-the-dead-sort-of/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Mattias |last=Rabe |url=http://www.teknikensvarld.se/2013/12/11/44964/15-nya-saab-9-3-bestalldes-forsta-dagen/ |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140309142810/http://www.teknikensvarld.se/2013/12/11/44964/15-nya-saab-9-3-bestalldes-forsta-dagen/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=9 March 2014 |title=15 nya Saab 9-3 beställdes första dagen |trans-title=15 new Saab 9-3 were ordered on the first day |work=[[Teknikens Värld]] |date=11 December 2013 |access-date=27 June 2014 |language=sv }}</ref> Production stopped in May 2014, initially only short term but was extended many times. According to NEVS, this was due to Qingdao insufficiently financing NEVS operations, forcing owner [[Kai Johan Jiang]] to fund operations through private funds as well as through assets in NEVS parent company National Modern Energy Holdings Ltd.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.saabcars.com/sv/news/F29115F4FC10E67A |title=Statusuppdatering från Nevs |trans-title=Status update from Nevs |work=National Electric Vehicle Sweden AB |date=30 May 2013 |access-date=27 June 2014 |language=sv |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714170122/http://www.saabcars.com/sv/news/F29115F4FC10E67A |archive-date=14 July 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.saabsunited.com/2014/05/situation-analysis.html |title=Situation analysis regarding NEVS financial difficulties |work=Saabsunited |date=21 May 2014 |access-date=27 June 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140715070436/http://www.saabsunited.com/2014/05/situation-analysis.html |archive-date=15 July 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.saabsunited.com/2014/05/reduction-of-workers-at-saab-cars-in-trollhattan.html |title=Reduction of workers at Saab Cars in Trollhättan |work=Saabsunited |date=27 May 2014 |access-date=27 June 2014 |archive-date=1 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140701091351/http://www.saabsunited.com/2014/05/reduction-of-workers-at-saab-cars-in-trollhattan.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |first=Victor |last=Jensen |url=http://sverigesradio.se/sida/gruppsida.aspx?programid=125&grupp=12994&artikel=5876108 |title=Nevs förhandlingar går framåt |trans-title=Nevs negotiations moving forward |work=Sveriges Radio |date=29 May 2014 |access-date=27 June 2014 |language=sv |archive-date=14 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714123312/http://sverigesradio.se/sida/gruppsida.aspx?programid=125&grupp=12994&artikel=5876108 |url-status=live }}</ref>

At this time, NEVS reportedly owed around $57 million to creditors, and sought bankruptcy protection with the aim of restructuring the company.<ref>{{cite news |first=Maria |last=Carling |url=http://www.svd.se/naringsliv/nevs-klarar-inte-betalningar-till-underleverantorer_3642432.svd |title=NEVS klarar inte betalningar till underleverantörer |trans-title=NEVS can not handle payments to subcontractors |newspaper=[[Svenska Dagbladet]] |date=9 June 2014 |access-date=27 June 2014 |language=sv |archive-date=12 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140612003729/http://www.svd.se/naringsliv/nevs-klarar-inte-betalningar-till-underleverantorer_3642432.svd |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/saab-autos-chinese-backed-owner-goes-bust-1409212885?tesla=y&mg=reno64-wsj&url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052970203937904580119102887304246 |title=Saab Auto's Chinese-Backed Owner Goes Bust |first=Christina |last=Zander |work=[[The Wall Street Journal]] |year=2014 |access-date=21 February 2015 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806193046/https://www.wsj.com/articles/saab-autos-chinese-backed-owner-goes-bust-1409212885?tesla=y&mg=reno64-wsj&url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052970203937904580119102887304246 |url-status=live }}</ref> Despite protection being granted, Saab revoked the right for NEVS to use the Saab brand name.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://europe.autonews.com/article/20140829/ANE/140829863/saab-carmaker-nevs-granted-creditor-protection-by-court?CSAuthResp=1%3A773565056475349%3A423310%3A17%3A24%3Aapproved%3AE983C2974E924A47485621D7889F5E44&= |title=Saab carmaker NEVS granted creditor protection by court but loses right to use Saab name |agency=Reuters |work=Automotive News Europe |date=29 August 2014 |access-date=21 February 2015 |archive-date=3 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303235450/http://europe.autonews.com/article/20140829/ANE/140829863/saab-carmaker-nevs-granted-creditor-protection-by-court?CSAuthResp=1:773565056475349:423310:17:24:approved:E983C2974E924A47485621D7889F5E44&= |url-status=live }}</ref> Despite optimism from NEVS that the name may be re acquired, Saab AB confirmed again in 2016 that it was cancelling the licencing agreement between the two companies, meaning future cars would be produced under the name NEVS.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://myautoworld.com/autonews/30647|title=NEVS Launches New Trademark - myAutoWorld.com|date=21 June 2016|website=myAutoWorld.com|language=en-US|access-date=21 June 2016|archive-date=11 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160811171428/http://myautoworld.com/autonews/30647|url-status=live}}</ref>

After securing deals with various Chinese consortiums, including the city of [[Tianjin]], resulting in the construction of a new factory, NEVS was acquired by Chinese conglomerate [[Evergrande Group]] in 2019.<ref>{{cite web| url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/jnylander/2015/06/29/saab-owner-to-build-400-million-electric-car-factory-in-china/?linkId=15202719| title=Saab Owner To Build $400 Million Electric Car Factory In China| website=[[Forbes]]| date=29 June 2015| access-date=11 September 2017| archive-date=7 August 2020| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807042251/https://www.forbes.com/sites/jnylander/2015/06/29/saab-owner-to-build-400-million-electric-car-factory-in-china/?linkId=15202719| url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=15 January 2019 |title=Evergrande Group new main owner in NEVS AB |url=https://www.nevs.com/en/media/press-releases/evergrande-group-new-main-owner-in-nevs-ab/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190121010752/https://www.nevs.com/en/media/press-releases/evergrande-group-new-main-owner-in-nevs-ab/ |archive-date=21 January 2019}}</ref> Evergrande's subsequent financial troubles resulted in NEVS being closed in March 2023, with the company going into "Hibernation Mode" to avoid bankruptcy, essentially liquidating the company.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gauthier |first=Michael |date=12 March 2023 |title=Saab's Ghost Comes Back To Haunt Once Again As NEVS Goes Into "Hibernation Mode" |url=https://www.carscoops.com/2023/03/saabs-ghost-comes-back-to-haunt-once-again-as-nevs-goes-into-hibernation-mode/ |url-status=live |website=Carscoops.com |access-date=11 June 2023 |archive-date=23 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230423184011/https://www.carscoops.com/2023/03/saabs-ghost-comes-back-to-haunt-once-again-as-nevs-goes-into-hibernation-mode/ }}</ref>