Saab’s entry into the growing Crossover segment is a vital next step in an accelerating new product offensive that will see the Swedish premium brand represented in all major segments of the market, says Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab Automobile’s Managing Director.
Speaking at the launch of the innovative Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, he said: “This concept is more than a statement of our intent to enter the Crossover segment. It also represents our commitment to take the Saab brand to new customer groups, offering a premium alternative choice they have never had before.
“These are exciting times at Saab. We are a brand on the move, with a clear product growth strategy that will take global sales volumes to a new level.”
Jonsson points out that in
the last five years alone, Saab has launched four new
models and shown four concept cars, including the
award-winning Aero X as a signpost for future Saab
design. It has also introduced industry-leading
BioPower flex-fuel engines with E85 and advanced
all-wheel-drive technology (Saab XWD).
“While we have come a long way in the last five years,
I can say that the next five years will see the rate of
new product development accelerate,” he adds. “Our
target is to have the Saab brand represented in all
major segments of the market.
“For example, the global Crossover segment has trebled
in size in the last seven years, but we have not been
able to offer customers a Saab alternative. That will
now change and the same will apply to other growing
segments where we see potential for our brand.”
Jonsson points out that each new Saab product, like its
upcoming Crossover vehicle, will draw inspiration from
the brand’s strong Scandinavian roots in the areas of
progressive design, driver focus and responsible
performance with concern for the environment.
“Our brand values have never been more relevant than
they are today,” he says. “Customers increasingly want
premium vehicles that meet their particular lifestyle
needs which are also sporty and environmentally
responsible. It is our intention to offer them Saab
products as a fresh and distinctive alternative
choice.”
