Saab in talks with other manufacturers on 92 model, not just Bmw
By Andrew, 15 Oct, 2010. 0 Comments
Saab 9-4X BioHybrid Concept
Talks are ongoing between Saab and BMW AG as well as other automakers to use their underpinnings for the proposed 92 entry-premium model, according to Victor Muller, the CEO of Spyker Cars NV. He also said that there are several carmakers, including some that are based in Asia, that are interested in potential licensing of the platform for its new 9-3 lower-premium model. In an interview with Reuters, Muller said that Saab is in “constant dialogue” with several players to share the (9-3) technology. He added that the executives of every carmaker have one major concern – how to drive the breakeven point down.
He believes that the fastest way is to sell and share your technology because it's already been paid for. Saab is also meeting with BMW and others about having their platforms make a car below the 9-3, such as the proposed 92, which isn't part of the company's business plan. Muller said that this car's design will be similar to the teardrop shape of the original 1949-56 model. It’s clear that Saab has a preference for BMW; however, Muller declined to confirm this.
Last month, Spyker entered a deal with BMW wherein BMW will supply four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engines for the new-generation Saab 9-3 beginning in 2012. The deal will benefit Spyker, which seeks to sell 120,000 cars a year starting 2012, to have access to new technology despite its negative shareholder equity value when liabilities exceeded assets in June. [via autonews - sub. required]
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