US Saab Dealers Lack New Cars

Saab's dealers in the United States are going through a tough month as the Swedish manufacturer, which is now getting ready for the final signature to step under Koenigsegg's ownership, is lowering production. The main reason for this decision is the launch of the new 9-5, with Saab trying to retool its Swedish factory for the upcoming model that will enter production in 2010.

As a result of this move, Saab's dealers are running out of cars and several store owners in the United States raised concerns that their future might be at risk if the inventories remain low.

“We have about 10 Saabs left, and they won’t last long,” Ivan Goodwin, sales manager at Jim Ellis Saab in Atlanta, told Bloomberg. “It’s going to be a big problem, but there is nothing we can do about it.”

Saab on the other hand is working hand to complete the sale to Koenigsegg and claims that inventories might be restored once the Swedish brand finds the money it needs to boost production.

“Our stockpile isn’t very large anymore as we’ve worked hard during the reconstruction to reduce it,” Saab spokesman Eric Geers told the aforementioned source. “When we close the deal and change owners we can start producing again for real as we then will have financing.”

Both Saab and its dealers are confident that the new 9-5 is going to bring a boost in sales. The car was showcased for the first time at the Frankfurt Auto Show and will go on sale in 2010.

“We’ve been in limbo too long,” the Atlanta dealer added. “But we’re optimistic. The new 9-5 has got more bells and whistles. It’s the best car they’ve ever made.”