Is Saab still in business? It is a common question, especially among Americans who remember the sleek, turbocharged Saab cars that once dotted suburban driveways. While the car division no longer exists, the Saab brand is alive and well, thriving in a completely different industry.
Today, Saab AB is a global defence and aerospace company, supplying advanced systems to governments and militaries around the world, including the United States. Its transformation from car manufacturer to defence innovator is one of the most significant pivots in modern business.
In this article, we will explore the rise and fall of Saab Automobile, the evolution of Saab AB, and what this means for consumers, entrepreneurs, and the defence sector.
See also: Proven steps to start a successful business.
Key Takeaways
- Saab is still in business today through Saab AB, which focuses on defence and aerospace, not automobiles.
- Saab Automobile stopped making cars after going bankrupt in 2011, with no plans for a comeback.
- Saab AB operates globally and supplies advanced radar systems, fighter jets, and surveillance technology to countries including the United States.
- The brand’s pivot from cars to defence highlights how strategic reinvention can keep a legacy company competitive and profitable.
What Happened to Saab? A Brief History of the Saab Brand
Saab was founded in 1937 as Svenska Aeroplan Aktiebolaget, a Swedish aircraft manufacturer focused on serving national defence needs.
Its primary mission at the time was to produce military aircraft for Sweden’s air force, and that legacy of defence innovation continues under Saab AB today.
When Did Saab Start Making Cars?
After World War II, Saab expanded into the automobile industry to diversify its operations. In 1949, the company released its first car, the Saab 92, a compact, aerodynamic vehicle that borrowed heavily from its aviation roots.
This move marked the beginning of Saab Automobile, the brand many Americans would later associate with distinctive design, safety features, and front-wheel drive performance.
| Year | Milestone | Division |
|---|---|---|
| 1937 | Saab founded as aircraft builder | Saab AB (Aerospace) |
| 1949 | First car model, Saab 92 | Saab Automobile |
| 1968 | Merged with Scania-Vabis | Saab-Scania |
| 1989 | Automobile division separated | Saab Automobile AB |
Saab-Scania and the Split of Saab Automobile
In 1968, Saab merged with truck manufacturer Scania-Vabis, forming Saab-Scania AB. The group operated both vehicle and aerospace businesses until 1989, when the car division was spun off as Saab Automobile AB.
This separation allowed Saab AB to refocus on its core strength—defence and aerospace while the automotive business followed a very different path.
Today, Saab AB is a standalone aerospace and defence powerhouse, designing and delivering advanced technologies such as fighter jets, radar systems, and submarine platforms.
While Saab cars are no longer made, the name remains relevant on the global stage through its defence operations, including partnerships with the US and NATO military forces.
See also: Is Jeep Going Out of Business? What the Latest Reports Reveal
Did Saab Start with Cars or Aircraft? The Real Origin Story
Many people assume Saab began as a car manufacturer, but the truth is that the company started in aviation.
Understanding this origin helps explain how Saab evolved into a global defence brand after exiting the automobile industry.
Saab Was Founded as an Aircraft Manufacturer
In 1937, Saab was established in Trollhättan, Sweden, with a single mission: to build military aircraft for the Swedish Air Force.
The company, officially known as Svenska Aeroplan Aktiebolaget, focused on developing fighter planes and reconnaissance aircraft as tensions grew across Europe.
By the early 1940s, Saab had rolled out models like the Saab 17 and Saab 18—two aircraft that solidified its reputation for engineering precision.
Saab AB’s identity was rooted in national defence and advanced aviation long before cars came into the picture.
Why Saab Started Building Cars
After World War II, the demand for military aircraft declined sharply. Saab’s leadership decided to enter the automobile market as a strategic pivot to sustain operations. In 1949, it launched its first production car, the Saab 92.
The car’s design featured a teardrop-shaped body inspired by aircraft aerodynamics, and its front-wheel-drive layout was unusual for the time.
This aviation DNA gave Saab cars their distinctive engineering and safety-first reputation.
Comparing Saab’s Early Focus: Aircraft vs. Automobiles
| Focus Area | Start Year | Product Example | Division |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Design | 1937 | Saab 17, Saab 18 | Saab AB (Defence) |
| Automobile Design | 1949 | Saab 92 | Saab Automobile |
Because Saab AB started as an aircraft company and returned to those roots, the transition from cars to defence was not a brand overhaul but a return to its foundation.
Today, Saab AB is still in business, continuing its original mission in aerospace and defence systems, now on a much larger, international scale.
General Motors and Saab: When Did GM Buy Saab?
General Motors played a major role in the rise and eventual decline of Saab Automobile. For American consumers, this period was when Saab became more visible but also more vulnerable.
Understanding when GM bought Saab and how that decision shaped the brand’s fate is key to answering why Saab is no longer making cars.
GM’s Initial Investment in Saab
In 1989, GM acquired a 50 per cent stake in Saab Automobile AB, forming a joint venture with Swedish investment firm Investor AB.
The move aimed to bring Saab into GM’s growing portfolio of European brands and expand its reach in the premium car market.
By 2000, GM purchased the remaining 50 per cent, making Saab a wholly owned subsidiary. At this point, Saab models like the 9-3 and 9-5 were being sold in the US, often positioned as sporty alternatives to Volvo or BMW.
| Year | Ownership Change | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1989 | 50% Stake by GM | Joint venture with Investor AB |
| 2000 | 100% Ownership by GM | Saab becomes a GM brand |
Saab Under GM: Platform Sharing and Brand Dilution
After taking full control, GM began building Saab cars on shared platforms with other GM brands like Opel and Chevrolet. While this improved cost efficiency, it diluted Saab’s unique engineering and identity. Long-time Saab fans noticed the shift.
The Saab 9-2X, for instance, was a rebadged Subaru WRX, while the 9-7X SUV shared parts with the Chevrolet TrailBlazer. These changes moved Saab away from its aerospace-inspired design roots and alienated its loyal customer base.
Why Saab Struggled Under GM Ownership
Despite global recognition, Saab was rarely profitable under GM. According to GM’s public filings, the brand posted consistent losses, and by 2008, during the global financial crisis, it was among the assets GM planned to divest.
| Year | Notable Models Introduced | Issues Faced |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan | Platform sharing with Opel |
| 2005 | Saab 9-7X SUV | Criticised for being too similar to GM SUVs |
| 2008 | N/A | GM announces plan to sell Saab |
GM’s decision to sell Saab led to a series of failed rescue attempts, including a near-deal with luxury brand Koenigsegg.
Eventually, GM sold Saab to Dutch automaker Spyker in 2010, but retained veto power over key technologies. This clause would later block a Chinese investment deal, contributing to Saab Automobile’s final collapse.
The End of Saab Cars: Spyker, NEVS and Final Bankruptcy
After General Motors sold Saab in 2010, the brand entered a turbulent phase marked by short-lived ownership and failed revival efforts.
While Saab is still in business through its defence division, the automobile arm could not survive the financial and strategic challenges that followed the GM exit.
Saab Sold to Spyker: A Last Attempt to Stay Afloat
In early 2010, Dutch sports car maker Spyker Cars acquired Saab Automobile from GM in a deal worth approximately 74 million dollars.
The new owners promised innovation and independence. However, the brand continued to lose money and struggled with supplier payment issues, leading to multiple production halts within a year.
| Year | Ownership | Key Events |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Spyker | Saab acquired from GM |
| 2011 | Spyker | Saab files for bankruptcy |
NEVS and the Promise of Electric Saab Cars
After Saab filed for bankruptcy in December 2011, a Chinese-backed company called National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS) purchased Saab’s assets in 2012. The plan was to revive the brand as a line of electric vehicles.
In 2013, NEVS released limited production versions of the Saab 9-3 EV, mainly for the Chinese market. Despite the initial buzz, the company failed to secure long-term investment or large-scale production contracts.
NEVS Bankruptcy: The Final End of Saab Cars
By early 2023, NEVS had ceased operations after years of underfunding and strategic uncertainty.
The company was officially declared bankrupt, marking the final closure of the Saab car brand. There are no official plans for a comeback, and all automotive production has ended.
| Year | Owner | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | NEVS | Saab assets acquired, plans for EVs |
| 2013 | NEVS | Saab 9-3 EV prototype released |
| 2023 | NEVS | Declared bankrupt, ceased operations |
Is Saab Still Making Cars?
No. Saab is no longer making cars, and there are no current manufacturers using the Saab name for automotive purposes as at the time of this research.
NEVS no longer holds the rights to produce vehicles under the Saab brand. While enthusiasts still maintain older Saab vehicles, the company’s legacy in the auto sector is now closed.
Today, Saab is still in business, but only as Saab AB, focused on defence, aerospace, and surveillance technologies.
Saab AB Today: From Cars to Defence and Aerospace
Although Saab no longer makes cars, the company is still active through Saab AB, its original parent organisation.
Saab AB has become a leading force in the global defence and aerospace industries, supplying advanced technology to governments and military partners worldwide.
Saab AB’s Core Focus
Saab AB operates in five major business areas: aeronautics, surveillance, advanced weapons systems, naval operations, and command-and-control technologies.
The company designs and manufactures integrated defence solutions that are now used by more than 100 countries.
| Business Area | Core Products |
|---|---|
| Aeronautics | Gripen fighter jets, unmanned air systems |
| Surveillance | GlobalEye, Giraffe radar systems |
| Dynamics | Anti-ship missiles, ground combat weapons |
| Naval Operations | Submarine systems, underwater surveillance |
| Support & Services | Defence software, systems maintenance |
International Presence and Defence Clients
Saab AB supplies advanced defence systems to NATO members, including the United States. Countries like Sweden, Brazil, India, and the United Kingdom rely on Saab’s technology for critical military operations.
Its Gripen fighter jet is used by several air forces, valued for its affordability, agility, and cutting-edge sensor technology.
The GlobalEye airborne early warning system integrates radar, signals intelligence, and surveillance into a single aircraft, giving nations real-time control over air and maritime domains.
The United Arab Emirates is one of its largest clients for this system.
Innovation and R&D Commitment
Saab AB invests heavily in research and development. According to its annual reports, nearly 25 per cent of its workforce is involved in R&D, supporting projects in artificial intelligence, cyber defence, and autonomous systems.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| R&D investment (annual) | Over 20 percent of revenue |
| Employees in R&D | Approx. 5,000 globally |
| Countries of operation | 30+ |
Is Saab Still in Business?
Yes, Saab is still in business, but only through Saab AB. It no longer produces consumer vehicles, but it is actively expanding its defence and aerospace operations across North America, Europe, and Asia.
For US-based entrepreneurs and defence suppliers, Saab AB represents a potential partner or competitor, depending on your position in the value chain.
Is Saab a Viable Company? Financials and Future Plans
With Saab no longer making cars, many ask if the company is still financially viable. The answer is yes. Saab AB has not only stabilised but has also grown into a competitive force in the global defence and aerospace sectors.
Strong Financial Performance
Saab AB has consistently reported growth across its core business units. Its revenues have increased steadily, driven by demand for air defence systems, surveillance platforms, and next-generation weapon systems.
In its most recent financial disclosures, Saab AB reported strong orders, improved profit margins, and a record-high backlog, indicating sustained demand.
| Financial Metric | Reported Performance |
|---|---|
| Annual Revenue | Over $4.2 billion |
| Net Profit Margin | 6 to 8 percent |
| Order Backlog Value | $14.5 billion (approximate) |
| Global Employees | 20,000+ |
Source: Saab AB Annual Report and Nasdaq Nordic Financials
Long-Term Growth Strategy
Saab AB is investing heavily in emerging technologies such as AI-driven defence systems, integrated battlefield platforms, and autonomous vehicles.
These innovations align with global trends in defence modernisation, especially in the United States and Europe.
The company has outlined a growth strategy that includes:
- Increasing production of Gripen jets for allied nations
- Expanding radar and surveillance systems globally
- Establishing new manufacturing sites and R&D hubs
Saab’s Market Position
Saab competes in a niche segment of the defence market where innovation and cost-efficiency matter. Its Gripen fighter jets offer a lower-cost alternative to larger defence contractors, making it attractive to mid-sized and developing nations.
The brand is particularly well-positioned in the radar and surveillance market, where demand has surged due to new global threats.
| Segment | Saab’s Competitive Edge |
|---|---|
| Fighter Aircraft | Gripen: affordable, agile, modern |
| Surveillance Systems | GlobalEye: multi-domain coverage |
| Naval Technology | Modular, export-friendly designs |
| Cyber Defence | R&D-driven innovation |
Is Saab Still in Business and Profitable?
Yes. Saab is still in business, and its profitability is rising. It no longer relies on the volatile consumer auto market. Instead, Saab AB has built a sustainable and scalable operation that meets defence needs in more than 30 countries.
For US-based contractors, engineers, and tech entrepreneurs in the defence sector, Saab represents not only a competitor but also a potential collaborator in emerging security technologies.
Does Saab Operate in the US? Defence Contracts and Local Presence
Saab is still in business and has a growing footprint in the United States. Through Saab Inc., its American subsidiary, the company provides advanced defence technology and support services to US government agencies and defence contractors.
Saab’s U.S. Headquarters and Operations
Saab’s US operations are headquartered in Syracuse, New York, where it runs a state-of-the-art facility focused on radar, command-and-control systems, and product development.
Additional locations include Florida, Virginia, and Indiana, with operations ranging from manufacturing to R&D and systems integration.
| Location | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Syracuse, NY | Radar systems, sensors, R&D |
| Orlando, FL | Training and simulation systems |
| East Syracuse, NY | Manufacturing and tech development |
| West Lafayette, IN | Advanced manufacturing, R&D partnerships |
US Defence Contracts and Programmes
Saab Inc. has secured several high-value contracts with the US Department of Defense.
The company supplies ground-based air surveillance radars, simulation systems, and advanced naval technology. Its AN/TPS-77 radar system is widely used by the US Air Force for long-range surveillance.
The company also collaborates with American defence primes on joint bids for contracts involving integrated battlefield technologies.
| Programme | Saab’s Contribution |
|---|---|
| US Air Force Surveillance | AN/TPS-77 radar systems |
| US Army Live Training | Integrated simulation and training tools |
| Naval Systems | Sensor and weapons integration |
Source: U.S. Department of Defense contract records and Saab Inc. official site
Local Jobs and Strategic Partnerships
Saab Inc. employs over 1,200 people across the United States and frequently collaborates with academic institutions, including Purdue University and Syracuse University.
The Indiana facility, for example, was developed in partnership with Purdue to support next-generation defence technologies.
Saab is also investing in domestic manufacturing capabilities to align with Buy American provisions and strengthen its long-term role in US national defence.
What This Means for American Businesses
For US-based engineers, defence contractors, and suppliers, Saab offers partnership and subcontracting opportunities. It is also a competitive force in the radar, training, and simulation segments.
If you want to position your business in the defence industry or increase visibility among defence-focused entrepreneurs, consider the Entrepreneurs.ng advertising packages. These solutions help you reach a targeted audience of business leaders and procurement professionals.
Is Saab Coming Back to Make Cars? Here’s What We Know
Many American consumers still wonder if Saab will ever return to the automobile market. Despite the legacy of its turbocharged sedans and distinct Scandinavian styling, Saab is no longer making cars, and there are no signs of a revival in the automotive industry.
NEVS and the Electric Saab Project
After Saab Automobile filed for bankruptcy, the rights to the brand’s tooling and production facilities were acquired by National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS) in 2012. NEVS aimed to launch an electric version of the Saab 9-3.
Although NEVS introduced prototypes of the Saab 9-3 EV in 2013, it struggled to scale production. With limited capital and an unclear market strategy, the company was unable to gain traction.
Most units never reached commercial delivery outside small pilot programs in China.
| Year | Event | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | NEVS acquires Saab assets | Plans to build electric vehicles |
| 2013 | Saab 9-3 EV prototype unveiled | No mass production achieved |
| 2023 | NEVS declared bankrupt | End of all Saab vehicle operations |
Why Saab Will Not Return to Car Manufacturing
NEVS no longer holds the rights to use the Saab name, and the facilities in Trollhättan have been closed or repurposed.
Saab AB, the original parent company, has clarified that it has no intention of re-entering the car market.
Its focus remains on aerospace, defence, and high-tech systems. The Saab brand has moved far beyond its automotive history, investing instead in radar technology, surveillance, and military-grade software.
| Factor | Status |
|---|---|
| Saab name in auto industry | Retired |
| Manufacturing plants | Closed or inactive |
| Future plans in automotive | None announced |
| Current Saab AB focus | Defence and aerospace systems |
Conclusion
Saab is no longer making cars, but the company is far from gone. While Saab Automobile has been defunct for years, Saab AB has evolved into a respected global defence and aerospace leader.
The brand’s focus today is on advanced technologies that serve governments and militaries worldwide.
For US audiences, the Saab name now represents innovation in radar, surveillance, and air defence, not quirky Swedish sedans. It is a story of reinvention that proves a legacy brand can remain relevant by returning to its roots and mastering its niche.
If you are building a business that needs to pivot or evolve, there is a lesson here. Reinvention is possible when strategy, innovation, and focus come together.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Saab still in business?
Yes. While Saab Automobile ceased car production and went bankrupt in 2011, Saab AB remains a thriving defence and aerospace company. It supplies radar systems, fighter jets, and naval technology to governments worldwide, including the United States.
2. Does Saab still exist as a company?
Yes—Saab AB continues to operate globally. It is publicly traded on the OMX Stockholm exchange, employs over 24,000 people, and has active defence and aerospace divisions serving more than 100 countries.
3. Is Saab still making cars?
No. Saab has not produced new cars since 2014. The last vehicles were electric prototypes under …NEVS, but the project ended when NEVS went bankrupt in 2023. All manufacturing stopped, and there are no plans to revive the brand in the automotive market.
4. What happened to Saab?
Originally founded as an aircraft manufacturer in 1937, Saab began building cars in 1949. Saab Automobile was spun off in 1989, then bought by GM, and eventually went bankrupt in 2011 after ownership changes.
Its assets passed to NEVS, which ceased operations in 2023. Meanwhile, Saab AB returned fully to aerospace and defence.
5. What is Saab AB and how is it different from Saab Automobile?
Saab AB is the original company, founded as an aircraft manufacturer, and it continued without interruption in aerospace and defence.
Saab Automobile was the car division, spun off in 1989, producing vehicles until its bankruptcy in 2011. Today, when we say Saab is still in business, we refer to Saab AB.
6. Is Saab a viable company?
Yes. Saab AB reported annual revenues over $4 billion, healthy profit margins, and a record order backlog exceeding $14 billion.
Its future plans include expanding Gripen fighter jet orders, deploying GlobalEye radar systems, and investing in AI-driven defence solutions.
7. Does Saab operate in the U.S.?
Yes. Saab Inc., its U.S. arm, is based in Syracuse, NY, and operates facilities in Florida, Virginia, and Indiana.
It holds U.S. Department of Defense contracts for radar systems (e.g., AN/TPS-77), training simulators, and manufacturing. It also employs over 1,200 people in the U.S.
8. Will Saab make cars again?
Unlikely. NEVS no longer holds production rights for the Saab name and declared bankruptcy. Saab AB has confirmed it has no plans to return to car manufacture and is firmly focused on defence and aerospace technology.
9. Are Saab cars still valuable?
Yes. Car collectors still prize vintage Saabs. Recent auction data shows high-end models like the 900 Turbo convertible selling for as much as $150,000, while most Saabs float between $8,000 and $13,000.
10. Can I still get parts for a Saab?
Yes. Companies like Orio AB supply replacement parts, and active owner forums remain strong. Enthusiast communities on Reddit confirm that spare parts are widely available and support for maintenance continues.
