The Final Countdown: Can NEVS Find a Lifeline for Emily GT Before 2026?

An Ambitious Beginning

In November 2019, NEVS received an ambitious assignment from their parent company, Evergrande: to develop a revolutionary electric vehicle, now known as the Emily GT. The initial vision included the creation of 10 prototype vehicles; however, circumstances resulted in only 6 vehicles being fully completed.

The Impact of Covid-19

The unprecedented global event of Covid-19 dramatically reshaped these plans in early 2020. As lockdowns and travel restrictions swept the globe—particularly stringent in China—Evergrande executives found themselves unable to physically visit Trollhättan to personally experience the Emily GT. This limitation severely hindered the project’s momentum.

Forced into a suboptimal solution, NEVS had to resort to presenting the prototypes to Evergrande through digital presentations and video conferencing. This virtual experience could hardly capture the essence of a vehicle meticulously designed to be physically felt and driven, significantly diminishing the impact the prototypes could have made.

Project Halt and Lingering Questions

Eventually, Evergrande ceased financial support for the Emily GT project entirely, compelling NEVS to halt operations immediately. Six complete vehicles emerged from this period, with another four partially built. Notably, the seventh prototype was nearly finalized—only about 3% of its assembly, including seats and lighting, remained incomplete.

This begs the critical question: Would the Emily GT be commercially available today had Covid-19 never happened? It’s a question forever unanswered but deeply pondered by everyone involved.

The Future of Emily GT and PONS

Currently, both the Emily GT and NEVS’ autonomous taxi project, PONS, are on the market. When asked about the status of these critical sales, NEVS CEO Nina Selander provided cautious optimism, stating that active negotiations are underway with several potential buyers. However, she remained intentionally reserved with further details.

NEVS has until the end of 2025 to finalize a sale. Failure to do so would result in depleted financial resources, inevitably leading to layoffs across the company. Without a successful sale, the Emily GT faces a very real risk of permanent termination.

Challenges in Finding the Right Buyer

Selling a highly ambitious automotive project like the Emily GT is undeniably challenging, with considerable odds stacked against the company. Ideal buyers must possess both the financial means and strategic intent to mass-produce and market the vehicle. Equally important, these buyers must recognize the cultural and historical significance of initiating production at Stallbacka—the historic Saab production facility—thus preserving its automotive heritage.

A Ray of Hope at Stallbacka

Fortunately, there is a glimmer of hope. Slowly, activity is returning to Stallbacka as various enterprises establish their presence. Most notably, AC Cars has begun producing their legendary AC Cobra on-site, signaling that the location retains its desirability and potential. This positive development might just provide NEVS with the much-needed tailwind to navigate towards a brighter future.

Personal Reflections and Closing Thoughts

Personally, my hope remains strong for both NEVS and the Emily GT. Their success benefits the automotive community and industry alike. My fingers remain crossed.

This concludes the “Saga of Emily”—for now. I sincerely thank all readers who’ve followed this journey closely. Rest assured, I will continue to bring updates whenever there are significant developments regarding NEVS and the Emily GT.

The accompanying image, captured by Peter Dahl, perfectly symbolizes this narrative—a vehicle, a dedicated team, and a shared vision, demonstrating their incredible journey of turning the impossible into reality.

Thank you.