Saab cars have a rich history, and their production has been scattered across various countries over the years. Here’s a brief overview of where Saab cars were made:
Early Years (1947-1968) Saab’s story began in 1947 in Trollhättan, Sweden, where the company was founded as a subsidiary of the Swedish aerospace company, Saab AB. The first Saab car, the Saab 92, rolled off the production line in 1949. During these early years, all Saab cars were produced in Trollhättan.
Expansion and Partnerships (1968-1990) In 1968, Saab was acquired by Scania-Vabis, a Swedish truck manufacturer. During this period, Saab continued to produce cars in Trollhättan, but also started to assemble cars in other countries, such as Finland and Belgium.
GM Ownership (1990-2010) In 1990, General Motors (GM) acquired a 50% stake in Saab, with the remaining shares acquired in 2000. During this period, Saab’s production was expanded to other countries, including:
- Trollhättan, Sweden: Continued to be the main production site for Saab cars.
- Graz, Austria: In 2001, Saab began assembling the Saab 9-3 Convertible at the Magna Steyr plant in Graz, Austria.
- Assembling in Poland: Saab also assembled cars in Poland, specifically the Saab 9-3 and Saab 9-5 models.
Spyker and NEVS Ownership (2010-2014) In 2010, GM sold Saab to the Dutch sports car manufacturer, Spyker Cars. However, the company struggled financially and was eventually sold to the Chinese company, National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS) in 2012. During this period, Saab’s production was significantly reduced, and the company mainly focused on developing electric vehicles.
Current Status (2014-Present) In 2014, NEVS announced that it would restart production of the Saab 9-3 sedan, but this time as an electric vehicle. The production took place in Trollhättan, Sweden, but unfortunately, the company faced financial difficulties, and production was halted.
Today, the Saab brand is no longer an independent car manufacturer, and its production has ceased. However, the Trollhättan factory, now owned by NEVS, continues to produce electric vehicles, including the NEVS 9-3, which is based on the Saab 9-3 platform.
Table: Saab Car Production by Country
| Country | Production Years | Models Produced |
|---|---|---|
| Sweden | 1949-Present | Saab 92, Saab 93, Saab 95, Saab 9-3, Saab 9-5 |
| Finland | 1960s-1980s | Saab 96, Saab 99 |
| Belgium | 1970s-1980s | Saab 99, Saab 900 |
| Austria | 2001-2010 | Saab 9-3 Convertible |
| Poland | 2000s-2010 | Saab 9-3, Saab 9-5 |
Saab's Legacy
Despite the challenges and changes in ownership, Saab cars have maintained a loyal following worldwide. The brand’s innovative designs, focus on safety, and quirky features have made Saab a beloved part of automotive history.
Important Notes:
- Saab’s production has been scattered across various countries, but Trollhättan, Sweden, remains the heart of the brand.
- The company’s history is marked by partnerships, acquisitions, and changes in ownership.
- Today, the Saab brand is no longer an independent car manufacturer, but its legacy lives on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Saab car production?
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Saab car production has ceased, and the brand is no longer an independent car manufacturer.
Where were Saab cars originally produced?
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Saab cars were originally produced in Trollhättan, Sweden, where the company was founded in 1947.
What was the last Saab car model produced?
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The last Saab car model produced was the Saab 9-3 sedan, which was later revived as an electric vehicle by NEVS.
