Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[REPORT: Spyker takes the lead in the Saab bidding sweepstakes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/report-spyker-takes-the-lead-in-the-saab-bidding-sweepstakes/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/report-spyker-takes-the-lead-in-the-saab-bidding-sweepstakes/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/report-spyker-takes-the-lead-in-the-saab-bidding-sweepstakes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



General Motors appears on track to either close or sell the ailing Saab brand by 2010. If they do, in fact, sell Saab, they are reportedly stipulating the following: the buyer must be well versed in small scale car production and they should be interested in keeping production in Saab's homeland, Sweden. If you don't know, Spyker fits that particular bill nicely.

Saab appears to be believing the deal will happen. "There are signals everywhere showing we are well on track," says Saab spokesman Eric Greers. We heard last week that Spyker was interested in purchasing Saab, and today's news only confirms it. Of course this wouldn't be a Saab story without the threat of imminent disaster looming in the shadows.

The catch is that if GM and the prospective buyer can't get the deal done by 2010, General Motors is just going to wash its hands of the perennial money loser and shut Saab down and sell off its assets. However, if the talks are going well but no deal has been reached by January, GM might consider funding Saab a little longer. Maybe. For their part, Spyker seems unaware of any looming deadline, though perhaps they should be.

[Sources: Reuters, Autocar | Image: Torsten Silz/Getty]

REPORT: Spyker takes the lead in the Saab bidding sweepstakes originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>General MotorsGeneralMotorsGMSaabSpykerSwedenThu, 10 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Swedish Pickle: Study says GM lost $5,000+ on each Saab sold over the last 8 years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/swedish-pickle-study-says-gm-lost-5-000-on-each-saab-sold-ove/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/swedish-pickle-study-says-gm-lost-5-000-on-each-saab-sold-ove/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/swedish-pickle-study-says-gm-lost-5-000-on-each-saab-sold-ove/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2008 Saab 9-3 Turbo X - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the automotive history of the last ten or so years is written, one of the most curious chapters will be why big, flush with cash American car companies purchased relatively diminutive, relatively oddball Swedish brands. Ford and Volvo, while still not a match made in heaven, at least gave it a go, sharing platforms and technology. The merger has yielded some good results, too. Anyone that's driven cars like the Flex or new Taurus can attest to how well Ford skin draped over a Volvo-based chassis works - especially when motivated by a twin-turbocharged, direct-injected motor.

General Motors acquisition of Saab on the other hand, was basically a complete and total disaster. Saab suffered mightily at the hands of the General, being forced to accept Opel underpinnings with hard points that prevented hatchbacks and therefore alienated the brand's five-door loving base. The 9-5 (formerly the 9000) languished and essentially died on the vine. The Saabaru (9-2X) proved the no one wanted to pay a $5000 premium for a WRX with nice seats, and the 9-7X was for all intents and purposes a Chevy Trailblazer with the ignition key stuck between the seats. Worse, with Saturn morphing into the American branch of Opel, Saab was the afterthought after the afterthought.

According to an article in Sweden's di, GM lost $5,100 on every Saab it has sold over the last eight years. The how is murky, but the why is that they spent a lot of money to purchase Saab and then didn't sell very many of them. Moreover, it's costing GM a pretty penny to unload Saab. Just about $900,000,000 to put a number on it. All in, General Motors lost nearly $6 billion dollars with Saab in the eight years they spent together. A total waste on both sides of the Atlantic. Here's hoping for better things from the (still pending) Koenigsegg marriage.


Gallery: 2008 Saab Turbo X


[Source: di.se via TTAC]

Swedish Pickle: Study says GM lost $5,000+ on each Saab sold over the last 8 years originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>General MotorsGeneralMotorsGMSaabSwedenFri, 20 Nov 2009 10:31:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: 700-HP Saab 99 Quattro Turbo is like missing Koenigsegg ancestor]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/video-700-hp-saab-99-quattro-turbo-is-like-missing-koenigsegg-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/video-700-hp-saab-99-quattro-turbo-is-like-missing-koenigsegg-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/video-700-hp-saab-99-quattro-turbo-is-like-missing-koenigsegg-a/#commentsFiled under: , ,

700-hp 1969 Saab 99 Quattro Turbo - Click above to watch video

Sweden has just over nine million people - that's an entire country whose population is just a little bigger than New York City - and we'd believe it if someone told us they exclusively devoted their time to blessing the world with peculiar automotive concoctions. We'd file this latest one under "quirky," but it's far too powerful: a 1969 Saab 99 given the Audi Quattro treatment and a turbocharging to the tune of 700 horsepower. And then left to look rather stock.

The brainchild of a man named Gustav, it's development is recorded on Savar Turbo for those of you who speak Swedish (translated, if you don't). It runs sub-10-second quarter-miles with ease, which includes a few tenths lost for wheelspin and manually shifting gears. And we like it. We like it a lot. And we want whatever he's been drinking - we're guessing drums of aquavit. Follow the jump for videos of this stealthy Swede's quarter-mile runs and have a look at what's under the hood in the gallery of high-res images below.


Gallery: 700-HP Saab 99 Quattro Turbo


[Source: Savar Turbo via Car Throttle]

Continue reading VIDEO: 700-HP Saab 99 Quattro Turbo is like missing Koenigsegg ancestor

VIDEO: 700-HP Saab 99 Quattro Turbo is like missing Koenigsegg ancestor originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audi quattroAudiQuattrodrag cardrag racingDragCarDragRacingdragstereuropeKoenigseggquattrosaabsaab 99saab 99 turboSaab99Saab99TurbosleeperswedenvideoThu, 05 Nov 2009 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Major obstacle cleared as Swedish government to guarantee $615M EIB loan for Saab]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/06/report-swedish-government-to-guarantee-615m-eib-loan-for-saab/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/06/report-swedish-government-to-guarantee-615m-eib-loan-for-saab/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/06/report-swedish-government-to-guarantee-615m-eib-loan-for-saab/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Saab 9-5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

A major hurdle in Saab's transfer to the homegrown hands of Sweden's Koenigsegg has been surmounted: the Swedish government has agreed to guarantee a 4.3 billion kroner ($615M U.S.) loan from the European Investment Bank to the Koenigsegg consortium. That represents the final funding the maker of the CCX needs in order to compete the financing of the deal.

The next hurdle is for the European Investment Bank to consent to give Koenigsegg the money. A Swedish government representative said he hoped the EIB would decide before the end of the month. If that happens and things goes favorably, Koenigsegg may still get the deal done on its original timeline, the end of the year.


Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5


[Source: Reuters]

REPORT: Major obstacle cleared as Swedish government to guarantee $615M EIB loan for Saab originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionacquisitionsbaiceibEuropean Investment BankEuropeanInvestmentBankfinancegovernmentkoenigseggkoenigsegg saabKoenigseggSaabsaabswedenTue, 06 Oct 2009 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: China's Beijing Automotive takes minority stake in Saab]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/report-chinas-beijing-automotive-takes-a-minority-stake-in-saa/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/report-chinas-beijing-automotive-takes-a-minority-stake-in-saa/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/report-chinas-beijing-automotive-takes-a-minority-stake-in-saa/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Saab 9-5 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

It had been reported that SAIC had quietly taken a stake in Saab in conjunction with the Koenigsegg Group. However, it's been confirmed that Beijing Automotive -- which also recently made a play for Opel -- has grabbed a share of the Trollhätten pie.

BAIC provided the $400 million difference in cost that Koenigsegg needed to complete the sale and the final financial hurdle is for the Swedish government to guarantee a $600 million loan from the European Investment Bank to Koenigsegg.

Those kinds of numbers mean that Saab will be more expensive than Aston Martin, which might sound a little odd -- especially for a company that sold just 93,000 cars last year. But the tie to BAIC -- and Russia, Augie Fabela, a cell-phone company magnate -- could open up two enormous markets that will give Saab access to market numbers that could justify its purchase price and existence. Full press release from Koenigsegg after the jump.


Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5


[Source: Koenigsegg]

Continue reading REPORT: China's Beijing Automotive takes minority stake in Saab

REPORT: China's Beijing Automotive takes minority stake in Saab originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baicbeijing automotiveBeijingAutomotivechinaeuropekoenigseggsaabswedenWed, 09 Sep 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Don't call it OCD: Dude builds 32-valve DOHC V8 out of Legos]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/video-dont-call-it-ocd-dude-builds-32-valve-dohc-v8-out-of-le/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/video-dont-call-it-ocd-dude-builds-32-valve-dohc-v8-out-of-le/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/video-dont-call-it-ocd-dude-builds-32-valve-dohc-v8-out-of-le/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

32-Valve, DOHC Lego V8 - click above image to watch the video

For those about to rock, we salute you, of course. And for those of you with four months of free time, seventeen suitcases full of Lego bricks and a masters in mechanical engineering, we'll totally give you props if - and only if - you come up with something as mind bending as this.

You are looking at a "working" Lego V8 engine. And the details are stunning. Pistons pump, valves open and close, rocker arms rock, the fly wheel spins -- there's even two bundle'o'snakes headers that flow into twin collectors, though we don't like how they get reduced and choked. But hey, if we really don't like it, we can build our own - with straight pipes! Also, we love the throttle bodies (made from radar disks) - they're a wonderful touch. Full video of running engine doing its thing after the jump. And we expect a user-submitted Jaguar V-12 by Christmas, so hop to it, readers.


Gallery: Lego V8

legov800legov810

[Source: Hacked Gadgets]

Continue reading VIDEO: Don't call it OCD: Dude builds 32-valve DOHC V8 out of Legos

VIDEO: Don't call it OCD: Dude builds 32-valve DOHC V8 out of Legos originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Aug 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DOHCLegoLego V8LegosLegoV8SwedenThrottle BodiesThrottleBodiesMon, 31 Aug 2009 16:57:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Christian Von Koenigsegg talks about the future of Saab]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/21/video-christian-von-koenigsegg-talks-about-the-future-of-saab/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/21/video-christian-von-koenigsegg-talks-about-the-future-of-saab/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/21/video-christian-von-koenigsegg-talks-about-the-future-of-saab/#commentsFiled under: ,


Interview with Christian Von Koenigsegg - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Fun fact: Sweden has more innovations per capita than any other nation on earth. Well, that's what Koenigsegg CEO Christian Von Koenigsegg says in a an interview posted on YouTube. Koenigsegg is going to need a lot of innovation and a bit of luck with its forthcoming purchase of Saab, as the Swedish automaker has been an albatross around the neck of General Motors since the day Detroit purchased the company.

In the interview, which is posted after the jump, Koenigsegg points out that Koenigsegg supercar manufacturers is only a small part of a larger, global organization. The company also has the backing of the Swedish government, which gives the group the financial backing to add Saab's much larger operations. Also discussed are new products, which includes the new Saab 9-5, which Koenigsegg feels is a great product, and several other new products he wouldn't discuss.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Christian Von Koenigsegg talks about the future of Saab

VIDEO: Christian Von Koenigsegg talks about the future of Saab originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>born from jetsBornFromJetsChristian Von KoeniggseggChristianVonKoeniggseggkoeniggseggsaabswedenswedish carSwedishCarFri, 21 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Saab deal between GM and Koenigsegg finalized]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/report-saab-deal-between-gm-and-koenigsegg-finalized/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/report-saab-deal-between-gm-and-koenigsegg-finalized/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/report-saab-deal-between-gm-and-koenigsegg-finalized/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2010 Saab 9-5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The deal has been signed, but the cash still hasn't changed hands. In a nutshell, that's where the share transfer agreement between GM and Swedish manufacturer Koenigsegg sits. Those close to the deal say the two companies have agreed on a very low price for Saab, but the exact figures are still undisclosed.

One towering hurdle in front of the deal is financing - the consortium, led by Koenigsegg Group, has yet to completely lock down funding as it is waiting on a hefty 4.3 billion kronor (about $593 million) loan from the European Investment Bank. The money won't be cleared unless the Swedish government secures it. Needless to say, there are countless other smaller hurdles (including word of investors backing out) that need to be knocked over before the deal is sealed. As of now, GM expects Saab to exit bankruptcy reorganization "shortly" and will share technology and services with Koenigsegg for a "defined time period" that has yet to be disclosed but should last at least a generation cycle as a number of new models that were developed by GM, including a redesigned 9-5 (above), are just about to launch.


Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5 Leaked Again


[Source: Swedish Wire, General Motors]

Continue reading REPORT: Saab deal between GM and Koenigsegg finalized

REPORT: Saab deal between GM and Koenigsegg finalized originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankruptcyDealForced saleForcedSaleGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsKoenigseggSaabSaleSwedenTue, 18 Aug 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Koenigsegg's bid for Saab in trouble?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/koenigseggs-bid-for-saab-in-trouble/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/koenigseggs-bid-for-saab-in-trouble/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/koenigseggs-bid-for-saab-in-trouble/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Koenigsegg CCX meets Saab Aero X concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Reports from Sweden indicate there may be a rough road ahead for Koenigsegg as the niche supercar maker works to complete its deal to purchase bankrupt automaker Saab. Last Friday, Swedish newspaper Goteborgs-Posten reported that one key investor was considering pulling out of the deal. Later, Joran Hagglund, state secretary for Sweden's industry ministry, confirmed his office had heard these rumors and was "chasing" Koenigsegg for an update.

It would seem that Koenigsegg, Saab and the Swedish government are now in full damage-control-mode. Halldora von Koenigsegg, the company's spokesperson and wife of founder Christian von Koenigsegg, said in response to the rumors, "Ownership questions are detailed information that I don't have the possibility to comment on today. What I can say is that our negotiations with GM are proceeding according to plan."

Saab spokeswoman Gunilla Gustavs echoed that statement, saying, "Everything's proceeding, we're still looking to be done by the end of the third quarter." Much ado about nothing or a sign of trouble ahead?


Gallery: Koenigegg, Meet Saab. Saab, Meet Koenigsegg


[Source: Wall Street Journal - Sub. Req'd]

Koenigsegg's bid for Saab in trouble? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>koenigseggkoenigsegg saabKoenigseggSaabsaabsaab koenigseggSaabKoenigseggswedenMon, 10 Aug 2009 14:31:00 EST<![CDATA[You Know, For the Kids: Volvo Motorsport launches children's racing gear]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/you-know-for-the-kids-volvo-motorsport-launches-childrens-rac/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/you-know-for-the-kids-volvo-motorsport-launches-childrens-rac/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/you-know-for-the-kids-volvo-motorsport-launches-childrens-rac/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Volvo Motorsport Collection - Click above for high-res image gallery

Any automaker - besides Little Tikes or Hotwheels - that tries to market to kids may find itself wasting precious advertising dollars. But as far as family cars go, Volvo seems to have made a name for itself making the safest vehicles in which parents - you know, the ones actually paying for and driving the car - can shuttle their kids around from school to karate class. Just ask any of the mothers sitting sideline at soccer practice and they'll tell you as much. That may go some way towards explaining why the Swedish automaker has taken such care in releasing the latest addition to its merchandise line.

While Volvo is hardly the first automaker to merchandise its brand image or even the first to create children's clothing, it's the first we've seen to launch one single kids t-shirt by itself. The Volvo Manager T-shirt for children bears the colors - namely green, to go with the earth-friendly DRIVe program - of the company's Swedish Touring Car Championship team on a tee made especially for the little guy, letting him (or her) in on the action while letting everyone know who's the boss: it's written there right on the back, printed on, like the rest of the badges, instead of embroidered to optimize the kid's comfort. Of course, Volvo Motorsport has a full line of gear for mom and dad as well, available on the company's website, but this piece itself is so simple that it's just, well... child's play. Details in the press release after the jump and images in the gallery below.


Gallery: Volvo Motorsport Collection


[Source: Volvo]

Continue reading You Know, For the Kids: Volvo Motorsport launches children's racing gear

You Know, For the Kids: Volvo Motorsport launches children's racing gear originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childrenDRIVekidsswedenswedishswedish touring car championshipSwedishTouringCarChampionshipt-shirtvolvovolvo merchandisevolvo motorsportVolvoMerchandiseVolvoMotorsportThu, 09 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: Koenigsegg reaches agreement to buy Saab]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/officially-official-koenigsegg-reaches-agreement-to-buy-saab/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/officially-official-koenigsegg-reaches-agreement-to-buy-saab/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/officially-official-koenigsegg-reaches-agreement-to-buy-saab/#commentsFiled under:




After days of speculation and rumor, General Motors made it official this morning, Saab will soon be back in Swedish hands. In many respects, this is the most fitting result for quirky brand. Koenigsegg is an oddball itself, building insanely fast supercars in a Scandinavian country where you can't legally drive over about 60 mph.

The deal will be partly financed through a $600 million loan from the European Investment Bank that is co-signed by the Swedish government. Just as GM will continue to provide Penske-owned Saturn with cars for a time, it will supply platforms and powertrains to Saab. The length of time that Saab will continue to use GM hardware hasn't been disclosed, but it will likely be for at least the next 5-6 years - if not longer. The new 9-5 which will be built in Trollhättan, Sweden is launching later this year followed by the 9-4X crossover. Both of these will probably complete their lifecycle on current platforms. The same is likely true for the 9-1 which may launch in 2010 or 2011. The big question mark will be the next generation 9-3, which had been expected to move to GM's Delta II platform.

The Koenigsegg-Saab deal should close by the end of September, and you can check out the official verbiage after the jump.

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading Officially Official: Koenigsegg reaches agreement to buy Saab

Officially Official: Koenigsegg reaches agreement to buy Saab originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 09:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewskoenigseggkoenigsegg saabKoenigseggSaabsaabsaab purchaseSaabPurchaseSwedenSwedishTue, 16 Jun 2009 09:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Volvo's new Safe + Sound Coverage Plan covers everything but the kitchen sink]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/03/volvos-new-safe-sound-coverage-plan-covers-everything-but-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/03/volvos-new-safe-sound-coverage-plan-covers-everything-but-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/03/volvos-new-safe-sound-coverage-plan-covers-everything-but-the/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Lost in the bevy of numbers that is the Autoblog monthly sales report is the fact that Volvo just isn't selling very many cars in the U.S. any more. The Swedish automaker only sold 5577 units in May, and the downward trend started way before the automotive market hit the crapper. Given the sad state of Volvo of late, it's little wonder that Ford is desperately trying to sell the once profitable automaker.

Just because times are tough at Volvo doesn't mean it's time to give up. Volvo's new marketing initiative for the month of June addresses cost of ownership head-on. The Safe + Sound coverage plan is one of the most comprehensive warranty programs ever offered by any automaker. It includes 5 year/60,000 mile warranty coverage plus 5/60,000 free scheduled maintenance, 24/7 roadside assistance, and - get this - wear and tear coverage that includes everything from wipers to brakes and rotors. Hit the jump to view the details on Volvo's Safe + Sound plan.

[Source: Volvo]

Continue reading Volvo's new Safe + Sound Coverage Plan covers everything but the kitchen sink

Volvo's new Safe + Sound Coverage Plan covers everything but the kitchen sink originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>campaignmarketingroadside assistanceRoadsideAssistancesafe and soundSafeAndSoundsafetyscheduled maintenanceScheduledMaintenanceswedenvolvowarrantyWed, 03 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Volvo announces diesel plug-in hybrid for 2012 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/01/volving-announces-diesel-plug-in-hybrid-for-2012-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/01/volving-announces-diesel-plug-in-hybrid-for-2012-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/01/volving-announces-diesel-plug-in-hybrid-for-2012-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Volvo plug-in hybrid - click above for a hi-res gallery

Volvo and Vattenfall have just made an announcement that should hurry the Swedish car maker along the hybrid highway. The two companies have partnered to develop a plug-in diesel hybrid that is expected to begin series production in 2012 with the first three demonstration vehicles to be completed this summer. Volvo, of course, will supply the cars, while the energy giant will bring charging units and the actual carbon-free electricity to the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) equation. Other hybrids being baked by the Ford-owned brand include a "micro-hybrid" for 2011 as well as the ReCharge concept.

Technologically, this PHEV is quite interesting. It will use 71% of its 11.3 kWh pack of lithium ion batteries to power the back wheels for about 30 miles (50 km). After that, the diesel engine takes over and will then drive the front wheels. The charging time for the battery is about five hours through a household type outlet and the car, which will use the body of the Volvo V70, will feature regenerative braking. Hit the jump for the official press release as well as a video outlining the program.


Gallery: Volvo and Vattenfall Plug-in hybrid

Continue reading Volvo announces diesel plug-in hybrid for 2012 [w/video]

Volvo announces diesel plug-in hybrid for 2012 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobloggreendiesel hybriddiesel phevDieselHybridDieselPhevgreenplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridSwedenVattenfallVolvo V70VolvoV70Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Koenigsegg a finalist in bid to buy Saab]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/29/report-koenigsegg-a-finalist-in-bid-to-buy-saab/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/29/report-koenigsegg-a-finalist-in-bid-to-buy-saab/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/29/report-koenigsegg-a-finalist-in-bid-to-buy-saab/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



In a brief article on its website, the UK's Channel4 says that a Swedish newspaper, Dagens Industri, is reporting that supercar maker Koenigsegg is in the running to purchase either a stake in Saab, or the whole kit and caboodle.

According to the report, Koenigsegg is reportedly a front-runner to rescue the fellow Swedish automaker, with the other suitors being the Renco Group, a U.S. investment company, and the Italian automaker Fiat - the latter of which is being denied by both Fiat and Saab.

Automotive News has asked Saab to comment on the report, but spokeswoman Gunilla Gustavs declined, although she did say that the likely bankruptcy of parent company General Motors will not derail Saab's plans. Gustavs apparently did impart that GM plans to disclose a "preferred candidate" in the next few weeks.

If Christian von Koenigsegg and his band of merry men manage to get their hands on Saab, we can't help ourselves from wondering that with their expertise in supercars, perhaps they could bring the Aero X (above) to market. We can dream, can't we?

[Source: Channel4; Automotive News - subs. req.]

REPORT: Koenigsegg a finalist in bid to buy Saab originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 May 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bailoutbankruptbankruptcyChapter 11Chapter11dagens industriDagensIndustriGMKoenigseggsaabswedenswedishFri, 29 May 2009 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2009: 2010 Saab 9-3X ideal wagon for lingonberry picking]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-2010-saab-9-3x-ideal-wagon-for-lingonberry-picking/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-2010-saab-9-3x-ideal-wagon-for-lingonberry-picking/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-2010-saab-9-3x-ideal-wagon-for-lingonberry-picking/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Saab 9-3X

Saab debuted its 9-3X at the Geneva Motor Show, and while it's a new market for the Swedish brand (we'll try to forget about the body-on-frame 9-7X, thank you), we suspect that the lifted load-lugger will probably outsell the standard SportCombi by a healthy margin Stateside, given America's appetite for such things.

It's quite handsome in person and the inherently less-sharp handling of a sportstilts wagon ought to paper over the 9-3's occasionally soggy dynamics. Said another way, a lack of razor-sharp handling in the 9-3 platform would seem to be more appropriate/acceptable in a softroader than a sporty wagon or sedan.

While basically the same as the 2.0-liter Sportcombi, the 9-3X has a 1.4-inch higher stance and standard Cross-Wheel Drive (XWD), a fantastically grippy system that figures to give the new model sufficient softroading abilities to be a worthwhile alternative to the Subaru Outback or Volvo XC70. Other model-specific cues include contrasting lower cladding and flared fenders, unique 17-inch wheels, and a roof rack for safely displaying all of one's lifestyle accessories.

Given the effort to extract Saab from General Motors' portfolio and its uncertain future, there is a very real possibility that the 9-3X will be the last new Griffin-badged product we see in the States - the badly-needed 9-5 replacement is slated to debut before the year is out, but we expect it will go to European markets first, and there has been some talk of Saab withdrawing from North America entirely even if it continues to exist. While the 9-3X can't be fairly tasked with saving the company, it's a compelling-looking package that would appear to deserve a shot.

Gallery: Geneva 2009: 2010 Saab 9-3X

Geneva 2009: 2010 Saab 9-3X ideal wagon for lingonberry picking originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 saab 9-3X2010Saab9-3x9-3XAudi AllroadAudiAllroadbreakingcrossoverGenevaGeneva 2009Geneva Motor ShowGeneva2009GenevaMotorShowOutbackSaabsaab 9-3XSaab9-3xsoftroaderstation wagonStationWagonSubaru outbackSubaruOutbackswedenswedishwagonWed, 04 Mar 2009 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Preview: 2010 Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/23/detroit-preview-2010-saab-9-5-griffin-edition/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/23/detroit-preview-2010-saab-9-5-griffin-edition/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/23/detroit-preview-2010-saab-9-5-griffin-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click to enlarge

As the current Saab 9-5 heads into the waning days of its life-cycle, General Motors' Swedish brand will be launching a new limited edition model at the Detroit Auto Show.

This time around, the 9-5 Griffin is set to do duty as the most luxurious Saab yet. While one might expect the most premium edition of the 9-5 to use a six cylinder engine like the 2.8-liter turbo from the Turbo-X, it actually uses a 260-horsepower version of the corporate 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbo. The Griffin receives matte chrome trim in the front, unique five-spoke 17-inch alloys, a rear spoiler and special badging.

The interior receives minimal changes, including gloss trim, piping on the carpets, and accent-colored stitching on the steering wheel, hand brake pull, and standard leather seats.

The Griffin will be available with either two- or three-pedal transmission configurations and four door sedan or wagon ("SportCombi") body styles.

The big question remains is that at $42,775 for the sedan and $44,045 for the Sportcombi, will anyone outside of Saab's most faithful really care? GM has already acknowledged that the Swedish brand is under review and the possibility of sale or shutdown looms large.

Click on the jump for Saab's official press release.

Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5 Griffin


[Source: Saab]

Continue reading Detroit Preview: 2010 Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition

Detroit Preview: 2010 Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Dec 2008 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowEstate carEstateCarfour-bangerfour-cylinderSaabsaab 9-5 griffenSaab9-5GriffenSportCombiStation WagonStationWagonSwedenSwedishturboTue, 23 Dec 2008 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Sweden approves auto aid for Volvo, Saab]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/11/sweden-approves-auto-aid-for-volvo-saab/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/11/sweden-approves-auto-aid-for-volvo-saab/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/11/sweden-approves-auto-aid-for-volvo-saab/#commentsFiled under: , ,



As both General Motors and Ford try to unload their respective Swedish brands, Saab and Volvo's country of origin has stepped in to provide a little financial relief. Sweden will provide up to 25 billion crowns ($3.1 billion) in emergency loans and lines of credit to both Saab and Volvo, though reiterated it has no plans to take any stake in the two auto brands. Most of the federal aid will be comprised of a 20 billion crown line of credit, while 5 billion will be offered in "rescue" loans. In addition, Sweden will also spend 3 billion crowns on a new state-owned institution for automotive R&D.

The new aid package for Saab and Volvo comes literally hours after the U.S. House of Representatives passed an Auto Rescue/Bailout Bill for U.S. automakers. Testifying in front of Congress, both GM and Ford recently promised to pare down and focus on their core brands, which do not include Sweden's two native automakers. While their sale is being pursued by both U.S. automakers, aid from Sweden should should keep their doors open and lessen their burden on GM and Ford. Thanks for the tip, everyone!

[Source: Reuters]

Sweden approves auto aid for Volvo, Saab originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>saabswedenswedish auto aidSwedishAutoAidvolvoThu, 11 Dec 2008 10:59:00 EST<![CDATA[The most obnoxiously tuned Toyota Prius... Ever]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/22/the-most-obnoxiously-tuned-toyota-prius-ever/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/22/the-most-obnoxiously-tuned-toyota-prius-ever/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/22/the-most-obnoxiously-tuned-toyota-prius-ever/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Click above to view video after the jump

We truly do appreciate the custom-car scene, in all of its various guises. There is, however, a problem with the custom Prius you see above and in the video embedded after the break. Generally speaking, the goal of modifying a car is to either A) make it go faster or B) make it look better.

When Classe Gustafson, Elvis Häggbom and Kenny Kyrk from Sweden had finished spending $184,000 customizing a Toyota Prius, they had accomplished neither. This Prius-trocity, which was modified for a television show, is anything but subtle. It lost two doors during its transformation from mild-mannered hybrid eco-mobile to whacked out sport compact that just happens to get good fuel economy, though it did get scissor-style portals that are nearly impossible to open in the process. And it also gained a huge honkin' stereo and the body-kit from a Volvo SUV. The over-the-top paint-job is the final touch. The Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain, however, went untouched save for the obligatory fart-can exhaust. Nice.

[Source: Wired]

Continue reading The most obnoxiously tuned Toyota Prius... Ever

The most obnoxiously tuned Toyota Prius... Ever originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Aug 2008 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Classe GustafsonClasseGustafsoncustom priusCustomPriusElvis HggbomKenny Kyrkmodified priusModifiedPriusswedenFri, 22 Aug 2008 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Cross-bred Caddy: Volkswagen Caddy Carrera Cup Edition 2.0TDI R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/30/cross-bred-caddy-volkswagen-caddy-carrera-cup-edition-2-0tdi-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/30/cross-bred-caddy-volkswagen-caddy-carrera-cup-edition-2-0tdi-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/30/cross-bred-caddy-volkswagen-caddy-carrera-cup-edition-2-0tdi-r/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a gallery of the VW Caddy Carrera Cup Edition 2.0 TDI R.

The link between Volkswagen and Porsche is about to get stronger, but VW's Swedish contingent has already created a special edition to honor the alliance. The VW Caddy has lived a staid life as a popular work truck in Europe, but the Swedes apparently think it could be so much more. So it's releasing 250 Carrera Cup Edition Caddies outfitted with black, 17-inch wheels wrapped in 225/45 R17 rubber, a new body kit, red-on-white paint scheme with Porsche's signature "Carrera" text, two-tone leather sport seats, a leather steering wheel and shifter. The 2.0-liter TDI mill is putting out 140 hp and 236 lb.-ft. of torque and with a fire extinguisher mounted on the diamond-plate floor boards, we think we might have found the perfect track-day accomplice to join that GT3 RS we've been building in our dreams.

Gallery: Volkswagen Caddy Carrera Cup Edition 2.0TDI R


[Source: Carscoop]

Cross-bred Caddy: Volkswagen Caddy Carrera Cup Edition 2.0TDI R originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 May 2008 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carrera cupCarreraCupporscheswedenvolkswagenVolkswagen Caddy Carrera Cup Edition 2.0TDI RVolkswagenCaddyCarreraCupEdition2.0tdiRFri, 30 May 2008 19:32:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Volvo's 81-year history in 9 minutes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/11/video-volvos-81-year-history-in-9-minutes/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/11/video-volvos-81-year-history-in-9-minutes/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/11/video-volvos-81-year-history-in-9-minutes/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to view video

Volvo has been making automobiles since April 14, 1927, and while most of us know Volvo for its safe and sometimes fun-to-drive vehicles, the Swedish automaker's history is of course more complicated than that. For instance, Volvo earned its reputation as a safe automaker before it sold a single car by getting in a head-to-head accident with an American car, which totaled the domestic while only scratching the Volvo. Volvo also featured the first standard three-point safety belt and was the first automaker to have a catalytic converter. Hit the jump to catch up on Volvology. It's a very solid nine-minute Volvo history course, even if it fails to mention current owner Ford all-together.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Volvo's 81-year history in 9 minutes

VIDEO: Volvo's 81-year history in 9 minutes originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Apr 2008 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>240850FordRally RacingRallyRacingSwedenVolvo HistoryVolvoHistoryFri, 11 Apr 2008 09:31:00 EST