Damage control must be in full swing at General Motors these days with the recent announcement that Saab and Saturn are on the outs and Pontiac will forge on with a reduced product portfolio. Just yesterday, Susan Docherty, VP of Buick/Pontiac/GMC, published a post on GM's Fastlane blog saying that "Pontiac is alive and kicking, and we are still part of GM's future plans." Fair enough, but what about Saturn and Saab?
A few weeks back, Saturn General Manager Jill Lajdziak sent reassuring letters to the owners of Saturn automobiles suggesting that the brand will live on, even if that means bringing in products from other automakers. Now, Mark C. McNabb, Vice President of GM's Premium Channel, has done the same for Saab owners. The two notes follow a similar pattern, first reminding owners why their specific brand is different from the rest and then highlighting why its corporate parents are pushing it out of the nest.
The underlining theme in both letters is one of hope for a future where each brand is able to carve out its own profitable niche in the global automotive marketplace and, of course, soliciting for continued sales from brand loyalists with assurances that their warranties will remain intact.
Read the letter from Mark McNabb after the jump.
[Source: Saab]
LETTER TO SAAB OWNERS FROM MARK MCNABB:
Dear ________,
You've always known us as somewhat of an unconventional company. From our very first days, when a group of unassuming jet engineers decided that driving should feel more like flying, we've had a natural affinity to seek the not-so-obvious path. Buoyed by a curious mix of ingenuity and optimism, we've always found our way.
Today, our sights are set on a new destination: independence.
Last week, General Motors submitted its viability plan to the U.S. Department of Treasury that outlined the corporation's long-term restructuring goals. In that plan, GM stated that it would actively pursue measures that could result in Saab Automobile AB, including all of Saab's global operations, becoming an independent company.
Saab has had several different types of ownership during its storied history. Recently, the first step toward re-establishing its independence was taken when Saab Automobile AB in Sweden filed for reorganization under a self-managed Swedish court process that will attempt to create a fully independent business entity. The reorganization in Sweden allows Saab to continue operating, while new ownership possibilities are being pursued. Current business is unaffected during this restructuring process.
So, what exactly does all this mean?
To current Saab owners and loyalists, be assured that all warranties on Saab vehicles remain valid. The warranty for both new and Certified Pre-Owned Saab vehicles are provided by GM and remain intact. GM will support continued availability of parts and service. Prepaid scheduled maintenance also remains in effect on all current product offerings.
To those who have recently expressed interest in buying a new Saab, we'll be there for you as well. All of Saab's current product offerings remain available. While these times may seem turbulent and uncertain, our cars are just as safe, just as fuel-efficient and just as fun-to-drive as ever. With the full backing of all warranties, you can drive with confidence knowing that your Saab will be covered under its warranty.
We are excited by the potential opportunities tomorrow will bring. And we're eager to start anew. During the reorganization period, your Saab Dealer stands ready to assist you with all your sales and service needs. In addition, Saab Customer Assistance is available at (800) 955-9007. While it may not be the most conventional path to take, for those who know Saab, you're well aware – we know no other way. With the spirit of Saab leading us, we hope you'll join us for the ride.
Sincerely,
Mark C. McNabb
Vice President
Premium Channel
General Motors Corporation
A few weeks back, Saturn General Manager Jill Lajdziak sent reassuring letters to the owners of Saturn automobiles suggesting that the brand will live on, even if that means bringing in products from other automakers. Now, Mark C. McNabb, Vice President of GM's Premium Channel, has done the same for Saab owners. The two notes follow a similar pattern, first reminding owners why their specific brand is different from the rest and then highlighting why its corporate parents are pushing it out of the nest.
The underlining theme in both letters is one of hope for a future where each brand is able to carve out its own profitable niche in the global automotive marketplace and, of course, soliciting for continued sales from brand loyalists with assurances that their warranties will remain intact.
Read the letter from Mark McNabb after the jump.
[Source: Saab]
LETTER TO SAAB OWNERS FROM MARK MCNABB:
Dear ________,
You've always known us as somewhat of an unconventional company. From our very first days, when a group of unassuming jet engineers decided that driving should feel more like flying, we've had a natural affinity to seek the not-so-obvious path. Buoyed by a curious mix of ingenuity and optimism, we've always found our way.
Today, our sights are set on a new destination: independence.
Last week, General Motors submitted its viability plan to the U.S. Department of Treasury that outlined the corporation's long-term restructuring goals. In that plan, GM stated that it would actively pursue measures that could result in Saab Automobile AB, including all of Saab's global operations, becoming an independent company.
Saab has had several different types of ownership during its storied history. Recently, the first step toward re-establishing its independence was taken when Saab Automobile AB in Sweden filed for reorganization under a self-managed Swedish court process that will attempt to create a fully independent business entity. The reorganization in Sweden allows Saab to continue operating, while new ownership possibilities are being pursued. Current business is unaffected during this restructuring process.
So, what exactly does all this mean?
To current Saab owners and loyalists, be assured that all warranties on Saab vehicles remain valid. The warranty for both new and Certified Pre-Owned Saab vehicles are provided by GM and remain intact. GM will support continued availability of parts and service. Prepaid scheduled maintenance also remains in effect on all current product offerings.
To those who have recently expressed interest in buying a new Saab, we'll be there for you as well. All of Saab's current product offerings remain available. While these times may seem turbulent and uncertain, our cars are just as safe, just as fuel-efficient and just as fun-to-drive as ever. With the full backing of all warranties, you can drive with confidence knowing that your Saab will be covered under its warranty.
We are excited by the potential opportunities tomorrow will bring. And we're eager to start anew. During the reorganization period, your Saab Dealer stands ready to assist you with all your sales and service needs. In addition, Saab Customer Assistance is available at (800) 955-9007. While it may not be the most conventional path to take, for those who know Saab, you're well aware – we know no other way. With the spirit of Saab leading us, we hope you'll join us for the ride.
Sincerely,
Mark C. McNabb
Vice President
Premium Channel
General Motors Corporation
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