2014 Saab 9-3 Aero production begins

Two years since Saab filed for bankruptcy, new owner National Electric Vehicle Sweden has recommenced production of the 9-3 Aero Sedan in Trollhättan.

Although the plan is to launch an electric-powered version in spring 2014, for now the 9-3 comes with a 217 bhp (161 kW / 220 PS) 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol engine and a choice of manual or automatic transmissions. No performance or efficiency figures have been released yet.

Saab 9-3 Aero Sedan (2014) Front Side

It’s certainly an ambitious project. While some parallels with MG Rover are hard to avoid - well-known small European brand goes bust; its assets get bought by the Chinese - the outcomes are very different. The NEVS strategy for the 9-3 assumes an increasing number of buyers will want electric vehicle technology, but they won’t mind it in a fairly elderly design.

That could explain why China is going to be Saab’s main market. The 9-3 remains an attractive-looking car, and some of its age-related shortcomings aren’t going to matter so much there. Demand can be managed to a degree, too. Indeed, NEVS’ partner and part-owner Qingdao has already placed an order for 200 units.

Saab 9-3 Aero Sedan (2014) Rear Side

The 9-3 is also being offered in Sweden, where prices for the petrol version start from SEK 279,000 (around £26,200 or €31,600 at current exchange rates). To avoid the hassle of having to re-establish a dealer network, sales will be online only.

Don’t expect to see many on the roads right away, though. Wisely, NEVS is initially restricting 9-3 build volume to just ten cars per week to ensure its supply chain and manufacturing processes are working properly.

Related posts:
Final Saab 9-3 Convertibles
Saab 9-5 upgraded for 2012

Images © NEVS.

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