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The End of an Era in Trollhättan
The once-vibrant Trollhättan factory, where Saab cars rolled off the production line for decades, is now in its final chapter. This iconic site, deeply ingrained in Sweden’s automotive heritage, is being dismantled piece by piece. The closure, announced amid mounting financial difficulties for NEVS (National Electric Vehicle Sweden), signals the conclusion of a storied history filled with innovation, resilience, and passion for engineering excellence.
The Factory That Built an Icon
For over six decades, the Trollhättan factory was the beating heart of Saab’s automotive operations. From the sleek Saab 96 to the turbocharged 9-5, the vehicles produced here were celebrated for their engineering ingenuity and unique Scandinavian design. The factory embodied the spirit of Saab—a blend of practicality, safety, and driving pleasure.
The factory’s massive presses, capable of exerting forces of up to 7,850 tons, played a pivotal role in shaping the cars that enthusiasts love today. But beyond the machinery, the factory stood as a symbol of Swedish industrial pride, employing thousands of workers and fostering a tight-knit community.
The Road to Liquidation
The downfall began in 2011 when Saab declared bankruptcy, marking a dark chapter in its history. NEVS acquired the factory with the vision of resurrecting the brand through electric vehicles. However, financial instability within NEVS’ parent company, Evergrande Group, severely hindered progress.
In February 2023, NEVS entered “hibernation mode,” dismissing the majority of its employees and selling off assets to settle debts. Fast forward to December 2024, and the situation has worsened. NEVS announced the layoff of its remaining staff, citing liquidity issues and unfulfilled agreements with potential buyers. This critical decision left the factory’s fate sealed, with its equipment slated for sale to international buyers.
Global Dispersion of Saab’s Legacy
The dismantling of Trollhättan’s factory marks a significant shift in Saab’s story. The equipment that once defined Saab’s engineering excellence is now being sold and shipped globally. Buyers from China, the United States, and beyond have expressed interest in acquiring the factory’s machinery, including its legendary hydraulic presses. A company called Surplex, specializing in industrial liquidations, is overseeing the sale of the stamping tools and presses from the iconic Trollhättan ex-Saab facility.
While this move ensures the machinery finds new life elsewhere, it also underscores the fragmentation of Saab’s industrial heritage. For enthusiasts, it’s a poignant reminder of what once was—a unified vision for Swedish automotive excellence now scattered across the globe.
Emotional Impact on Trollhättan
For the residents of Trollhättan, the factory’s dismantling is more than just a business decision; it’s a cultural and emotional blow. The factory wasn’t just a workplace; it was a cornerstone of the community, a source of pride, and a defining aspect of the town’s identity.
Employees, many of whom worked at Saab for decades, have expressed deep sadness at the closure. The loss of the factory represents the end of a shared legacy that shaped generations in Trollhättan.
What Lies Ahead for the Site?
As the presses and other equipment leave Trollhättan, the future of the factory site remains uncertain. While NEVS initially envisioned a transition to electric vehicle production, those plans are no longer viable. The focus has now shifted to finding new purposes for the expansive facility.
There is hope that the site could attract new industries to reinvigorate the local economy. However, the path to repurposing the factory will be fraught with challenges, particularly as the emotional and historical weight of its legacy looms large.
Preserving Saab’s Spirit
Although the physical factory may be dismantled, Saab’s legacy continues to thrive among its dedicated community of enthusiasts. From lovingly restored classic models to modern interpretations of Saab’s unique design philosophy, the brand’s influence lives on.
For those who cherish Saab, the Trollhättan factory will always be a symbol of innovation, resilience, and creativity. Its closure marks the end of one chapter, but Saab’s story remains far from over.
Even as the presses fall silent and equipment finds new homes globally, NEVS CEO Nina Selander continues her fight to salvage what remains of the company. On December 11, 2024, Selander announced the layoff of all remaining staff—a heartbreaking yet unsurprising development driven by Evergrande Group’s directive to minimize costs. Despite this, Selander remains steadfast in her commitment to selling the Emily GT prototype and the PONS autonomous platform during the notice period, hoping these projects can secure a brighter future under new ownership.
Selander expressed determination, stating, “It wasn’t a surprising announcement, but that doesn’t make it any less heavy. We’ll fight to ensure that everyone lands on their feet.” NEVS has already initiated discussions with unions and Evergrande about how to handle the next steps, offering a glimmer of hope for the employees and the innovative projects still under its wing
The Trollhättan factory may no longer echo with the sounds of production, but the soul of Saab lives on in the resilience of its people, the enduring appeal of its cars, and the unwavering dedication to innovation.
