My thanks to all who’ve sent one of these in.
It seems SaabUSA and Saab Oz are hitting the corporate mail bandwagon and letting all people who have registered with them in the past know about Saab’s reorganisation and independence plans.
For those of you who aren’t signed up, here is the mail that’s going out to SaabUSA customers:
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Dear XXXX,
You’ve always known us as somewhat of an unconventional company. From our very first days, when a group of unassuming jet engineers decided that driving should feel more like flying, we’ve had a natural affinity to seek the not-so-obvious path. Buoyed by a curious mix of ingenuity and optimism, we’ve always found our way.
Today, our sights are set on a new destination: independence.
Last week, General Motors submitted its viability plan to the U.S. Department of Treasury that outlined the corporation’s long-term restructuring goals. In that plan, GM stated that it would actively pursue measures that could result in Saab Automobile AB, including all of Saab’s global operations, becoming an independent company.
Saab has had several different types of ownership during its storied history. Recently, the first step toward re-establishing its independence was taken when Saab Automobile AB in Sweden filed for reorganization under a self-managed Swedish court process that will attempt to create a fully independent business entity. The reorganization in Sweden allows Saab to continue operating, while new ownership possibilities are being pursued. Current business is unaffected during this restructuring process.
So, what exactly does all this mean?
To current Saab owners and loyalists, be assured that all warranties on Saab vehicles remain valid. The warranty for both new and Certified Pre-Owned Saab vehicles are provided by GM and remain intact. GM will support continued availability of parts and service. Prepaid scheduled maintenance also remains in effect on all current product offerings.
To those who have recently expressed interest in buying a new Saab, we’ll be there for you as well. All of Saab’s current product offerings remain available. While these times may seem turbulent and uncertain, our cars are just as safe, just as fuel-efficient and just as fun-to-drive as ever. With the full backing of all warranties, you can drive with confidence knowing that your Saab will be covered under its warranty.
We are excited by the potential opportunities tomorrow will bring. And we’re eager to start anew. During the reorganization period, your Saab Dealer stands ready to assist you with all your sales and service needs. In addition, Saab Customer Assistance is available at (800) 955-9007. While it may not be the most conventional path to take, for those who know Saab, you’re well aware – we know no other way. With the spirit of Saab leading us, we hope you’ll join us for the ride.
Sincerely,
Mark C. McNabb
Vice President
Premium Channel
General Motors Corporation
I wonder if Mr McNabb is planning on joining us if and when Saab become separated from GM? Nice to hear from him, anyway.
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And here’s the email that was sent out to Saab Australia’s customers and interested parties:
Dear Mr Wade
You may, or may not, have been reading in the media the challenges facing the automotive industry at this time, and I thought it important to update you on specifics of the Saab brand.
For 20 years Saab has been owned by General Motors and has struggled more recently as a result of the crisis in the automobile industry.
Last week, the Saab brand filed for reorganization in Sweden with the direction of creating a fully independent business unit.
The reorganization is a self-managed Swedish legal process where Saab will formulate a proposal for reorganization, which will include centralizing design, engineering and manufacturing activities in Sweden.
The goal of establishing the independent business unit will require funding by private and public investors and the reorganization process will make Saab more attractive to these investors as it moves to establish itself as a stand-alone, independent company.
This is a milestone decision by Saab and lays out a direction that Saab has been working towards for some time.
Through this reorganization process, Saab will continue to operate business as usual globally, and here in Australia and New Zealand.
Saab has a strong range of new product models in development for release in the near future and this process is a natural evolution for the brand which will mark the beginning of a new chapter in Saab’s history.
Saab Automobile will be sure to keep you informed of any updated information in the coming months.
Yours sincerely
Parveen Batish
Director – Saab Australia & New Zealand
The signoff from parveen’s interesting there, too. Now that Cadillac’s introduction has been suspended indefinitely here in Australia and Hummer’s on its way out, the signoff with “Saab Australia” rather than “GM Premium Brands” is interesting.
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