Saab Appoints Chinese Importer

The decision made a while back by Swedish manufacturer Saab to expand its operations on a more global level (mostly by taking over the operations until recently handled by GM) are beginning to take shape. Following the repeated announcements surrounding the launch of new models this year, Saab says it will distribute those models in China as well, through its newly appointed distributor, China Automobile Trading (CATC).

Starting this September, the Chinese partner will be bringing into the booming Chinese market the Saab vehicles. The second stage of the Saab expansion into China will be the shift of the Saab distribution and after sales responsibilities from Shanghai GM to CATC. The initial Saab stand alone dealership network will be at first comprised of ten stores.

“We are pleased to be a partner of Saab in facilitating the return of this iconic premium brand to China. The premium import segment has shown rapid growth in recent years, with double to triple digit increases for the various brands,” said Ding Hongxiang, CATC president.

“The new Saab product line-up meets the demands of Chinese customers and serves key segments of the market, with both the 9-4X in the fast growing cross-over segment and the 9-5 showing great potential.”

Separately, Jan Ake Jonsson, the man who led Saab for the past six years, including three of tremendous struggle, announced on Friday that he plans to retire from the helm of the Swedish auto maker on May 19, when the Spyker Cars N.V.’s Annual General Shareholders meeting will take place. No successor for the current CEO has been announced yet by Saab.