Saab was a Swedish automotive manufacturer known for its unique and distinctive designs, engineering prowess, and strong emphasis on safety. Established in 1945, Saab produced a range of cars with a loyal fanbase, especially for its turbocharged models. Despite its legacy and innovative features, the company faced financial challenges and ultimately ceased production in 2012. However, from the ashes of Saab’s demise rose NEVS (New Electric Vehicle Sweden), a company with a vision to bring back the glory of Saab in a modern, sustainable way. NEVS acquired the assets of Saab and set out to create an electric version of the renowned Saab 9-3, named the 9-3EV, with impressive specs, including around 175 horsepower and 190 miles of range. While the deliveries of the 9-3EV started in 2018, the project never saw full-scale production.
NEVS wants to ensure that the legacy of the Saab brand lives on
China-based Evergrande Group stepped in and purchased a majority stake in NEVS, eventually acquiring the company entirely. However, financial troubles within the conglomerate forced them to consider offloading the automaker. To avoid bankruptcy, NEVS announced a drastic measure: the company would enter a “hibernation mode,” resulting in the layoff of 95% of its workforce.
But amidst the uncertainty, the NEVS team showcased their latest creation, the Emily GT, in early 2023, offering a glimpse of hope for the company’s future. The Emily GT, a Model S-sized sports sedan, made heads turn with its massive 175-kilowatt-hour battery pack, pushing the boundaries with an ambitious 600-mile range. Its innovative four in-wheel electric motors allowed for true torque vectoring, showcasing NEVS’ technology.
The reveal of the Emily GT proved to be a turning point for NEVS. Reports surfaced that an unidentified investor had expressed keen interest in the Emily project and signed a purchase intent letter, expressing their desire to back the venture. This unexpected development opened up new possibilities for NEVS. With the backing of the investor, NEVS now plans to restart production at the historic Trollhättan assembly facility in Sweden. This announcement has brought renewed hope to the region, as the resurrection of the facility would create job opportunities and reinvigorate the local economy.
As for the brand name, due to legal considerations, the Saab name might not be retained. However, NEVS is actively exploring alternatives to honour the legacy of Saab and ensure that its essence lives on. In terms of design, the Emily GT pays homage to Saab’s heritage, perfectly capturing the spirit of the beloved 9-5 Aero successor. The sedan boasts a signature floating roofline and muscular proportions, blending classic Saab aesthetics with contemporary styling.
RELATED:
- New teaser video props the Ola S1 Air as the brand’s most affordable electric scooter ahead of its launch
- India Rejects BYD’s $1 Billion Electric Vehicle Factory Proposal
- Best Lenovo Ideapad Slim 3 alternatives in 2023
(Via)
Comments