Saab resurrected – 9-3 Aero Sedan begins production

Saab 9-3 Aero Sedan

National Electric Vehicle Sweden AB (NEVS) has restarted production of the Saab 9-3 Aero Sedan. The revived model is instantly recognizable to the facelifted Saab 9-3 that was introduced in 2011, with one exception – the lack of Saab’s old griffin logos on the bonnet and wheels – as they belong to the Scania and Saab Group. Sales are initially focused on the Chinese and Swedish markets.

The car that is produced is a high-spec Saab 9-3 Aero Sedan with a 2.0-litre turbo engine delivering 164kW (220 hp). It is mated to a manual or an automatic transmission.

Saab 9-3 Aero Sedan front

“I am very proud of the dedication and the focus that NEVS management and employees have demonstrated over the year that has passed since we became owners of the plant in Trollhättan, and who have made this possible. Swedish expertise along with Japanese technology around batteries and new lightweight materials and our Chinese group’s focus on green technology is our strength for the future,” said Kai Johan Jiang, NEVS founder and main owner.

“It is truly a complex mission to start a car production process which has been still for two and a half years. It is very pleasing that we have embarked on a journey where we want to and will make a difference with our partners and customers. Our electric car will be launched next year, and already today we can offer Saab cars with continued high, proven performance and quality,” said NEVS’ President, Mattias Bergman.

Saab 9-3 Aero Sedan rear quarter

To ensure a solid ownership experience, NEVS intend to offer service and parts distribution in partnership with Orio AB (formerly known as Saab Automobile Parts AB).

NEVS now has partnership with around 400 suppliers needed for the 9-3 Sedan model. All in all, NEVS’ start of production engage around 2,400 companies globally through the suppliers.

An electric car based on the Saab 9-3 will also be launched in the first quarter of 2014, with China as the first market. NEVS’ partner and part owner, Qingdao, has placed an initial order for a pilot fleet of 200 electric cars.

The Saab 9-3 Aero Sedan will go on sale in Sweden on 10th December priced from 279,000 SEK. NEVS intend to broaden its sales base into more markets where they see the potential for growth and profitability.