Saab: Bidder, Bidder, Where Art Thou?

The Saab struggle may very well become longer (although not as glamorous) than the ones of American manufacturers GM and Chrysler. After repeated statements in which two, three, ten, countless companies lined up outside its door, it turns out that in the end Swedish manufacturer Saab has nothing to show for.

Swedish enterprise minister Maud Olofsson says, according to Autonews, that his government is yet to see a clear plan from those bidders. Furthermore, it is yet unclear if the parties interested will be able to rise up to the challenge and meet all the criteria for becoming the new owner of Saab.

The deal, with whomever is to be signed, is hoped to be concluded by summer. GM CEO Fritz Henderson says this shouldn't take more than one or two months. “We are talking to a number of interested bidders. That will take more shape and form over the next month or two rather than the next week or two," Henderson was quoted as saying by the source. He added that the sale is a Swedish run operation.

The first and foremost condition to be met by the future Saab owner is that is has a solid financial background. "There are potential candidates which are serious and which are trying to put together a business plan that is credible. We have an active role from the government side to try to convince potential buyers that we are committed to see new owners who have the muscle to invest and secure Saab's future," Olofsson said.

The rumored parties (given the fact that up until now no one has officially admitted to this) include Geely, Koenigsegg and of course, Fiat.