does saab still make cars

If you’ve ever admired the quirky, aerodynamic design of a Saab rolling down the street, you might find yourself wondering about the brand’s current status. Known for their turbocharged engines, innovative features like night panels, and a distinct Scandinavian sensibility, Saabs developed a fiercely loyal following. Their cars felt different, often appealing to pilots, architects, and those who valued thoughtful engineering over flashy trends. So, what happened to this beloved automaker?

The straightforward answer to the question does Saab still make cars is no, not in the way they once did. The classic Saab car company that produced vehicles for decades ceased production in 2016. However, the story of the brand is more complex than a simple shutdown, involving bankruptcy, new ownership, and a fascinating rebirth in a completely different industry.

The Final Chapter for Saab Automobile

The road for Saab Automobile AB became increasingly difficult in the late 2000s. After being owned by General Motors, the company faced financial struggles that culminated in it filing for bankruptcy in 2011. A brief and ultimately unsuccessful revival attempt was made by a Swedish-Japanese consortium called National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS), which acquired the main assets of the bankrupt estate. NEVS produced a small number of gasoline-powered Saab 9-3 models in 2013-2014, but this was the last time a new Saab-badged car was built for consumers. The final curtain fell on car production in 2016.

So, Who Owns the Saab Name Now?

This is where the story takes a turn. While NEVS owned the factory and the tools to build the old 9-3, the rights to the Saab name for cars were leased. Today, the Saab name is owned by the defense and aerospace company, Saab AB. This is the original parent company that first ventured into car manufacturing after World War II. Saab AB has made it clear that its focus is entirely on its core business of aviation, defense, and security. They have no plans to return to the automotive industry, meaning the Saab brand will not be appearing on new cars anytime soon.

What does Saab still make cars for today’s market?

While you cannot walk into a dealership and buy a new Saab car, the brand is very much alive in a different form. The company Saab AB is a global leader in developing advanced fighter jets, radar systems, and naval technology. So, in a way, Saab does still “make” incredible vehicles—they just fly instead of drive. This return to its aerospace roots provides a fitting, if bittersweet, epilogue to the car-making chapter of its history.

For those who love the unique character of a Saab, the best option is the vibrant used car market. With a dedicated community and specialist mechanics, owning and maintaining a pre-2011 Saab can be a rewarding experience, keeping the spirit of these innovative cars on the road for years to come.