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The transition of the former Saab factory into a versatile industrial hub under Stenhaga Invest’s stewardship marks a new chapter for the site, which has a rich heritage in automotive production.
While the initial discussions with EV Electra about manufacturing at the factory did not materialize, this has not deterred Stenhaga from moving forward with ambitious plans for the site. Their first lease agreement with a Volvo subcontractor is a testament to their commitment to repurposing the site for a new era of industrial activity.
The Saab Site: A Tapestry of Ownership
The transformation of the Saab facility is set against a complex backdrop of ownership and legacy uses. Stenhaga Invest owns a portion of the former Saab area, focusing on the parts previously used for production. Meanwhile, Trollhättan Municipality has acquired a significant portion of the site, including the old test track, and the research and development department with its wind and climate tunnels, with plans to further develop these assets through a municipal property company.
NEVS retains ownership of the large parking area in front of the factory, along with historical buildings, adding layers of complexity and potential to the site’s overall redevelopment.
Volvo’s Presence: Setting the Record Straight
The entrance of Volvo, or more precisely, a subcontractor for Volvo, into the Saab factory has stirred interest and speculation. Contrary to initial rumors and the historical rivalry between Saab and Volvo, the activity by Volvo’s subcontractor is focused on storage of packaging materials, rather than any form of vehicle manufacturing or assembly. This development, while more modest than some might have hoped, symbolizes a practical step towards revitalizing the factory space, demonstrating the variety of industrial uses it can support.
The Challenge of Revitalization
The task Stenhaga Invest faces in revitalizing the vast factory space, spanning 80 hectares and 320,000 square meters of building area, is monumental. The initial hope of hosting the production of the Emily GT project, an electric vehicle initiative by EV Electra, has yet to be realized.
Despite the absence of current activity by EV Electra in Sweden that would indicate the establishment of their business, the dialogue and potential for future partnerships remain open. This underscores the ongoing efforts to find suitable tenants and uses for the site that align with its industrial heritage and future potential.
The Road Ahead
The Saab factory’s story is evolving from a single-industry focus towards a multipurpose industrial park. Stenhaga Invest’s strategy includes engaging with over 50 interested parties, indicating a broad interest in the site’s potential.
While the dreams of vehicle manufacturing have momentarily taken a back seat, the site’s future now lies in diversification. As the area undergoes transformation, the challenge will be to balance the legacy of the past with the needs and opportunities of the future, ensuring that the site once again becomes a beacon of industry and innovation in the region.
Good lord people….and I quote, “the activity by Volvo’s subcontractor is focused on storage of packaging materials.”
Yeah, I can see auto production in the immediate future with that industry decision. 😂😂😂
Last Saab was built in 2011…period.
J’espère honnêtement c’était juste du bonheur et j’aimerais honnêtement poser mes fesses à nouveau derrière le volant d’une Saab et profitez de ce confort de conduite 🥰
We need SAAB back in production.
YES!! Love my 1999 Saab 9-3 turbo. 200k and runs like a champ. My Saab mechanic said NO to any Saab over 2005 and the Saab SUV lol he said 1999 to 2005. Best years!! I found a 2005 with only 23k and I want it so badly!! Iam trying to bring that dream into fruitation as we speak!!! But YES I wish someone would bring back Saab and not Chevy or Dodge. People who Truly know and appreciate the Saab heritage
Here in Britain, we have a “new MG factory ” just opened up near Oxford. It is, of course, a UK storage & distribution facility for Chinese SUVs.
As far as I understand it’s not about SAAB but some EV abominations? Gosh… just let the brand die with some dignity…
TO Anton Voloshin >
Saab were early to get turbos right. Why shouldn’t they be early to get EVs right as well?
TO Paul Scott >
well, ev cars are not new by any stretch of imagination. More than that, saabs had their fanbase because they were really interesting and unusual cars with a distinct character. Can ev have a character? I doubt so, they’re just plain boring. If you want an ev, I see no reason to choose these new so called Saabs over tesla or some other brands with mature ev platforms.
TO Bogdan Mihai>
investment cost you have written much money.But production capacity and other factors important l dont believe.
The Chinese are unbeatable for that.
Saab will prosper only if Fu Manchu takes over the management.
Yes with pleasure, but I don’t went Stellentis group.
I run my Saab 9-3 diesel from 2008 daily and it has 240,000 km done and will do the same further on. Consumption is about 6,2 l/100km. Fully functional and very comfortable
I had a 900 and a 93 best cars ever.
Sorry.. but I think saab will never come back again. I worked at Saab’s factory in Trollhättan
Please no! They aren’t coming back 😢
Those that want this rubbish need to buy a vectra
I would love to see the brand come back, they were special cars