News

GM Reaches Agreement to Sell Saab to Spyker

2/23/2010 Highlights:

• Spyker Cars finalizes deal over the purchase of Saab Automobile
• Transfer of ownership has taken place
• Saab exits liquidation and the management are back in control
• Transaction signals the start of an exciting new era for Saab
• Saab and Spyker to operate under parent company Spyker Cars N.V

SaabsUnited.com has more

 

GM Reaches Agreement to Sell Saab to Spyker

1/26/2010

DETROIT - General Motors and Spyker Cars NV today confirmed that they have reached a binding agreement on the purchase of Saab Automobile AB.

"Today's announcement is great news for Saab employees, dealers and suppliers, great news for millions of Saab customers and fans worldwide, and great news for GM," said John Smith, GM vice president for corporate planning and alliances.

"General Motors, Spyker Cars, and the Swedish government worked very hard and creatively for a deal that would secure a sustainable future for this unique and iconic brand, and we're all happy for the positive outcome," Smith said.

As part of the agreement, Spyker intends to form a new company, Saab Spyker Automobiles, which will carry the Saab brand forward. The sale will be subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of applicable regulatory, governmental and court approvals. Other terms and conditions specific to the sale will be disclosed in due time.

The Swedish government is at present reviewing the transaction and the related request for guarantees of a Saab Automobile loan that has been requested from the European Investment Bank. Assuming quick action, the transaction is expected to close in mid-February, and previously announced wind down activities at Saab will be immediately suspended, pending the close of the transaction.

"Throughout the negotiations, GM has always had the hope to find a solution for Saab that would avoid a wind down of the brand," added Nick Reilly, president, GM Europe. "We've worked with many parties over the past year, including governments and investors, and I'm very pleased that we could come to such a good conclusion, one that preserves jobs in Sweden and elsewhere. GM will continue to support Saab and Spyker on their way forward."

 

1/18/2010

The "Save Saab" movement continues to take hold world wide with caravans and rallies taking place in many places around the world from Europe to Russia, China and Taiwan. Particularly large gatherings have take place at the factory in Trollhattan where workers have rallied in a fight to keep the marque alive. At this time, no decision has been announced as to the sale of Saab or what the future might hold. This showing of support from Saab owners and enthusiasts is an unprecedented demonstration of loyalty for any car brand and seems to be continuing to gather momentum. Rally summaries and details can be found at www.saabsunited.com.

 

Chuck Andrews Interviewed on MPR (Minnesota Public Radio)

Minnesota Public Radio recently interviewed our own Chuck Andrews concerning the current status of Saab and the future of the brand. Please follow the link to hear this interview in its entirety. Listen to the interview

 

Press Release - 6/17/2009
General Motors and Koenigsegg Group AB Reach Tentative Agreement on Saab

Zurich. General Motors Corp. and Koenigsegg Group AB, a consortium led by Koenigsegg Automotive AB, today confirmed the details of a memorandum of understanding for the purchase of Saab Automobile AB that secures Saab's future.

The sale, expected to close by the end of the third quarter of this year, includes an expected $600 million funding commitment from the European Investment Bank (EIB) guaranteed by the Swedish government. Additional support is to be provided by GM and Koenigsegg Group AB to fund Saab's operations and product program investments. This includes plans to launch several new products that are in the final stages of development. Saab had filed for reorganization under Swedish Law on Feb. 20, 2009. This tentative agreement is a key milestone for Saab to successfully emerge from its reorganization process.

"This is yet another significant step in the reinvention of GM and its European operations," said GM Europe President, Carl-Peter Forster. "Saab is a highly respected automotive brand with great potential. Closing this deal represents the best chance for Saab to emerge a stronger company. Koenigsegg Group's unique combination of innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and financial strength, combined with Koenigsegg's proven ability to create world-class Swedish performance cars in a highly efficient manner, made it the right choice for Saab as well as for General Motors."

As part of the proposed transaction, GM will continue to provide Saab with architecture and powertrain technology during a defined time period. Additionally, Saab plans to produce its next generation 9-5 models in the Saab production facility in Trollhättan, Sweden.

"The proposed agreement will enable us to maximize the brand's potential through an exciting new product line-up with a distinctly Swedish character. Today's announcement is great news for Saab's current and future customers, dealers, suppliers and employees around the globe, said Jan Åke Jonsson, Managing Director of Saab Automobile AB.

The sale will be subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of applicable regulatory, governmental and court approvals. Other terms and conditions specific to the sale are not being disclosed at this time. Deutsche Bank acted as financial advisor to General Motors Corporation.

 

 

Dealerships charge more than independent repair shops for repairs, study says

View this article online at http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=598774

 

SAAB Press Release - 2/26/2009

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

 

 

Saab's Future?

 

New Billboard Near Zimmerman

Andrews Inc. of Princeton recently added a second billboard on north-bound 169 at Zimmerman.

 

Golf in Princeton while we service your car...

Attention Golfers! Relax with a round of golf while we service your car. The Princeton Golf Course is nearby. www.princetongc.com

 

New Rooftop Sign at Andrews

We have finally gotten to the finish line of our summer remodeling projects: Our new 624 sq.ft. (12’ by 52’!) sign on our roof project has been installed. Now we can be seen from miles around and even from thousands of feet in the air! Besides fixing the roof, one of the objectives was a sign that could be seen from the road and we now have it in place. It is also lit at night and it does a great job lighting the whole neighborhood!

 

Saab XWD "Cross Wheel Drive": World's First Application of the Innovative Haldex 4.0 All-Wheel Drive System

• Intelligent Saab XWD “Cross Wheel Drive” offers new levels of vehicle handling and stability under all driving conditions
• New Haldex 4.0 system offers class-leading performance, up to 100% rear torque transfer
• Innovative all-wheel drive technology: pre-emptive engagement and active rear Limited Slip Differential
• New rear sub-frame and suspension geometry
• Available in the Saab Turbo X and 9-3 Aero XWD as of early 2008 calendar year
  

DETROIT – Developed in Sweden with Haldex of Stockholm, the Saab XWD “Cross Wheel Drive” system is designed to optimize vehicle handling and stability in all driving conditions. It is offered in the 2008 Saab Turbo X and Aero versions of the 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi, in combination with an uprated 280 hp (206 kW), 2.8 V6 turbo engine which now delivers almost 15% more maximum torque (400 Nm/295 lbs/ft) to exploit the greater traction available. It comes with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

This state-of-the-art all-wheel drive system includes two innovative features: pre-emptive engagement of the rear wheels to optimize traction at take-off; and an active rear limited-slip differential (eLSD), allowing variable torque transfer between the rear wheels.

Saab XWD is a fully automatic, on-demand system capable of sending up to 100% of engine torque to the front or rear wheels whenever necessary. While offering new Saab Turbo X and 9-3 Aero XWD owners sure-footed handling in low-grip conditions, its sophisticated operation also adds a further sporty dimension to the driving experience in all road conditions. Fine balancing of the drive torque between the front and rear axles raises the threshold at which ESP throttle and braking interventions are triggered, providing more scope for closer driver involvement.

The system is governed by its own electronic control unit, which functions in harness with the engine, transmission and ABS/ESP control modules. The hardware consists of a Power Take-off Unit (PTU) in the front final-drive that transmits engine torque through a prop-shaft to the Rear Drive Module (RDM). This incorporates a Torque Transfer Device (TTD) and an electronically-controlled Limited Slip Differential (eLSD). Both are wet, multi-plate clutch units from Haldex.

At take-off from rest, the TTD is initially activated when the clutch plates are forced together under hydraulic pressure, thereby engaging the RDM. This pre-emptive function is a valuable improvement in current technology, which requires the detection of wheel slip before the TTD is activated. For the driver, the enhanced functionality gives maximum traction immediately for smooth, strong acceleration from rest without the possibility of any initial hesitation.

On the open road, drive torque is seamlessly and continuously varied between the axles by the control of a valve in the TTD, which increases or reduces the pressure on the wet clutch plates. When cornering, Saab XWD rewards the driver by providing enhanced, more finely balanced chassis dynamics. Data from the vehicle’s ABS/ESP sensors - measuring wheel speed, yaw rate and steering angle – is utilized, and careful programming of Saab XWD enables the application of rear drive to balance oversteer and understeer characteristics, improving stability and roadholding.

In highway cruising conditions, when traction or optimum grip is not an issue, only 5% to 10% of engine torque is typically transmitted to the rear wheels. This helps provide the driver with a measure of greater stability, while helping to save fuel.

The ultimate ‘icing on the cake’ with Saab XWD is the eLSD. This is the first application of an electronically-controlled, rear limited slip differential in this segment of the market. The eLSD is installed alongside the RDM and operates via pressurized clutch plates on a principle similar to the larger TTD. In icy or wet split-friction conditions, for example, it uses inputs from the rear wheel speed sensors and can transfer up to 40% of torque between the drive shafts, to whichever wheel has more grip.

The eLSD also gives the driver enhanced control when cornering hard or completing a high speed maneuver, such as a lane change, by momentarily applying more or less torque to either of the wheels to help the rear of the car more closely follow the direction of the front wheels. This yaw damping effect can keep the car better balanced and more tightly controlled, without requiring ‘outside’ intervention from electronic stability aides.

Installation of Saab XWD includes the fitment of a new rear sub-frame to carry the RDM, revised rear suspension geometry and new wheel hubs for the drive shafts. The three piece prop-shaft runs through two bearings with constant velocity joints for smooth running with minimal ‘wind-up’. Wheelbase and rear track dimensions are unaltered. All Saab Turbo X and 9-3 Aero XWD Sport Sedan and SportCombi models will have 18-inch alloy wheels as standard equipment.

Saab is a division of General Motors Corp. Saab Automobile USA is the importer and/or distributor of Saab 9-3, 9-5 and 9-7X automobiles for Saab Automobile AB, Sweden. Visit www.saabusa.com for more information.

 

Saab Aero Academy Now Open for All

DETROIT -- The exclusive Saab Aero Academy two-day performance driving school held at Road Atlanta in Braselton, Ga., once reserved for Saab Aero model customers only, is now available to U.S. drivers everywhere. The cost is only $495 in combination with the purchase of a new Saab and $1,000 more without.

The intensive two-day course combines driver education with the thrill of piloting Saab Aero performance vehicles. It consists of 80 percent advanced handling exercises on specially constructed training tracks and 20 percent classroom time. Aero Academy instructors are professional race car drivers.

"The Saab Aero Academy is an important element of the overall Saab customer experience," says Saab Automobile USA General Manager Steve Shannon. "Improving driving skills and learning how to avoid an accident benefit American road-ways. Besides, pushing Saab 9-3s and 9-5s to the limits on a safe, closed course is just plain fun and we wanted to share that experience with as many people as possible. Bottom line, if you love to drive and want to sharpen your skills in a Saab, it's a must."

Aero Academy enrollees experience a skid pad where they learn how to control a car with proper steering, throttle and brake responses; "threshold" braking, which teaches how to apply brakes, improve reaction time and avoid brake lockup; a lane change exercise which is designed to improve reflexes and car control skills; a slalom course which tests timing, throttle and steering skills - all while avoiding the orange cones; and an autocross, a scaled down race track that tests cornering, braking, acceleration and skid control while using 100 percent of the cars' potential.

Saab Aero Academy instructors are active in open wheel formula racing, sports car racing, endurance racing and oval track racing. Instructor to student ratio is 1:4. More than 2,000 Saab owners have participated in the Aero Academy since it was founded in 1999 under the name "Viggen Flight Academy."

To enroll in the Saab Aero Academy visit SaabAcademy.com or call 800.456.4728. Customers who purchase or lease a 2008 Saab will receive a voucher good for $1,000 of the $1,495* Saab Aero Academy tuition. All participants are responsible for travel and hotel as well as meals not part of the program.

Saab is a division of General Motors Corp. Saab Automobile USA is the importer and/or distributor of Saab 9-3, 9-5 and 9-7X automobiles for Saab Automobile AB, Sweden. In 2007, Saab celebrates 60 years since first being introduced to the automotive scene as the vision-turned-reality of 16 aircraft engineers. Visit www.saabusa.com for more information.

 

Saab vehicles added to GM Mobility program

GM celebrates Disability Awareness Month by expanding program for equipment reimbursement and extended OnStar service

DETROIT – General Motors today announced that it has added the entire line of Saab vehicles to its GM Mobility program. Customers who now purchase or lease any new 2007 or 2008MY Saab vehicle and install or reinstall eligible adaptive mobility equipment can receive a combination of financial assistance and the protection and convenience of OnStar. All GM brands are now part of the program, and include Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, HUMMER, Pontiac and Saturn.

The GM Mobility Program was launched in 1991 to assist people with disabilities with their transportation needs. Under the terms of the program, GM reimburses customers up to $1,000 when they buy or lease a new GM vehicle and adapt it with one or more of the 35 eligible aftermarket mobility equipment modifications such as hand controls, scooter hoists, OnStar TTY equipment or wheelchair lifts. Customers who receive reimbursement on OnStar-equipped vehicles also get two extra years of standard OnStar service. Since the first year of OnStar service is included on all new OnStar-equipped GM vehicles, GM Mobility customers get three years of OnStar service with their purchase.

"Saab has hundreds of thousands of loyal owners – and now family caregivers, seniors, and people who have limited mobility can enjoy the safety, technology and performance that are hallmarks of Saab vehicles, said John Gaydash, director of marketing for GM Fleet and Commercial Operations."

"We can’t think of a better way to help celebrate October as Disability Awareness Month than to add Saab to the GM Mobility program."

With OnStar, available on more than 50 GM vehicles including all Saab vehicles, subscribers have direct access to safety and security features such as 24-hour emergency assistance, remote door unlock, stolen vehicle location assistance and Hands-Free Calling, which allows drivers to make and receive hands-free voice activated calls through a nationwide cellular network.

For more information on the GM Mobility Reimbursement Program visit www.gmmobility.com.

For more information on Saab vehicles, visit www.saabusa.com.

 

 

New Billboard

Andrews Inc. of Princeton recently added another landmark for your trip to visit us--our new billboard on US 169 on the south end of Princeton just past the Fairview Northland Hospital. Now you can look for the sign and be sure you are past it before thinking of exiting on Rum River Drive! Coming soon will be the huge new sign on our building that can easily be seen from US 169.

 

More Improvements at Andrews

 
The face of Andrews continues to change as we have undertaken numerous projects over the summer on our grounds and buildings. The latest is the addition of a new roof over the body shop and waiting/office areas that accomplishes several things: fixes the 30 year old flat roof, provides a place for a sign that can be seen from US Highway 169, provides rain and snow protection for the stairs leading to the customer waiting area and last, but not least, gives us extra storage space above the waiting/office areas. We will soon have a new billboard on the highway and the sign on the building!

 

News Archives

2007 Saab Owner's Convention

August 23-26, 2007 has been announced as the date for the 25th annual Saab Owner’s Convention. This year’s location is Troy, Michigan. Our very own Chuck Andrews will be presenting information on oil sludge issues in Saab 2.3 liter engines along with personnel from Amsoil (www.amsoil.com) and Oil Medic (www.oilmedic.com). There are many events scheduled throughout the weekend for the whole family. Details can be found at www.saabconvention.org.

 

Rum River Outlaw Grass Drags August 25th and 26th, 2007

Princeton’s local snowmobile club, Mystic Riders, is once again hosting the Rum River Outlaw Grass Drags August 25th and 26th. The event is located just west across US Hiway 169 from Andrews Inc. Our very own John Anderman is a member of the Mystic Rider’s Club and he is the designer and construction overseer of the new featured ATV test-ride track that includes a stream, bridge, log pile challenge and other climbing obstacles, and some mud to try out that possible new ATV purchase. Andrews Inc. is planning on having a booth there promoting the Blue-Heat (www.blueheatinfo.com) system from Webasto. Check out the details at www.outlawgrassdrags.com.

 

Parade Unit Award

Princeton’s Rum River Festival hosted the annual parade on June 7th, 2007. Andrews Inc. of Princeton’s parade unit consisting of a variety of Saab models was awarded the “Favorite Auto” entry trophy. The trophy is proudly displayed on site, amongst our numerous awards collected over the years from various events, for your viewing pleasure!

 

Free Car Wash Feb. 17, 2007

Andrews will have a free car wash from 9-2 on Saturday Feb. 17 2007. We will feature test drives in a 9-5 converted to run on E 85! We will have free food and some door prizes. Cars will be washed and vacuumed by Milaca Alliance Church Youth Group that is raising money to go to a Youth Seminar this summer. Come out and test drive our used cars and the E 85 car. You will be amazed at the opportunity to save money and cut down our dependence on foreign oil!

Saab Owners Convention Results
View photos from the 2006 SOC.

 

Saab Videos
http://www.saabvideos.com/2006/09/13/saab-festival-2005/
Ryan Emge was at the Saab Festival with Chuck and Linda in 2005. This is just a taste of the things that they were able to see and experience. Ryan has his own web site which has many Saab Videos on it. www.saabvideos.com Check it out it is worth the time!

 

Andrews Open house set for July 8th
Andrews will host their Open House Event on July 8. We will start in the morning here in Princeton and caravan to Lindstrum later to participate in the parade for Karl Oskar Days. We will have details soon for the complete event. Mark your calander now!

 

Andrews Draws Conclusions From 9-3 and 9-5 engine oil sludge research:
After more than a year of extensive testing involving a number of cars, oils, etc, Andrews Inc. has put together a new service regimen to address issues of engine oil sludge that effect not only Saab cars, but many other marques as well. These service procedures have also been implemented with the used car service that pre-owned Saab and Subaru cars receive before resale to the public.
Read our full article on engine oil sludge and find out about our solution for your 9/5 or 9/3. (pdf)
View our recommended service chart for 9/5 4 cylinder models 1999-2003 and 9/3 models 1999-2002, 2003 CV. (pdf)

 

GM Selling Off Subaru Stake; Saab 9-6X Dumped
General Motors said this morning (10-06-05) that it will sell off its 20-percent stake in Fuji Heavy Industries, the parent company of Subaru. GM took a 20-percent stake in Fuji in 2000 and since then, has tried to leverage the resources of the company to help along some of its own car brands, particularly Saab. (Saab's 9-2X is a rebadged version of the Subaru WRX.) But other vehicle collaborations never made it off the drawing boards, and as a result, GM will sell off its stake in pieces. Toyota will take 8.7 percent of the existing GM shares, according to a release, with the remainder to be sold off to other investors. GM will net about $315 million for the sale to Toyota. GM adds that with the dissolution of the joint venture, it will focus on high-growth markets in Asia, presumably China. While the existing Saab 9-2X will continue for an undetermined time, GM says that the future crossover planned for Saab based on the Subaru B9 Tribeca has been cancelled. GM is expected instead to spin off a new Saab crossover from a planned Opel model derived from the concept Antara GTC. (Press release from autoconnection.com)

 

Saab Oil Analysis
Andrews Inc and Oil Medic.com are co-operating to do oil testing on Saab engines to try to create a nation wide data base. We are encouraging everyone to go to the Oilmedic.com web site and buy the sample bottles and have their oil tested. There is a link on Oilmedic's home page that says Saab Specific oil test. The results of these tests will tell us and you the car owner the true condition of your engine and with the nation wide data base we will know how each engine rates across the country. With one oil test per year per car we will be able to forecast the longevity of these engines. If we can identify parts that are failing prematurely we will be able to repair or replace them before there are catastrophic failures. We also have the test bottles at our shop and would be happy to be part of the testing for your car. We have tested Chuck's 9-5 wagon twice and will be doing more tests soon. This is also the best way to establish oil change frequency. We will be publishing results of our data and Oilmedic.com will have results of all tests in a data base on their web site. Be part of the solution......have your oil tested.

 

Saab Brand Center to Open in Sweden
This will be the epicenter of the Saab brand and will house a strategic design team that will concentrate on Saab-specific design. "From a designer's perspective, Saab has such a rich history to build upon," said Nesbitt. "Therefore, we plan to ensure that future Saabs maintain this DNA, accentuating their aircraft heritage and the Scandinavian design aesthetics that have helped Saab challenge the mainstream for nearly 60 years." In addition to Saab designers, the Saab Brand Center will house a core team of engineers and marketers who will work in close collaboration to develop, evolve and maintain the Saab brand character in all areas -- from developing future product proposals to ensuring consistent communication across the globe.

"The sole focus of Saab's new Brand Center is to create an environment where Saab specialists can focus specifically on what makes Saab unique and, therefore, help ensure we maintain these qualities in everything we do: design, engineering, marketing communications, and more," said Forester.

 

Saab Festival
The Saab Festival was held in Trollhattan Sweden June 16-19. Peter Backstrom did a wonderful job putting together the fantastic event. In the past the event was for two days but this year it was four. We will be writing a full report for publication in NINES magazine and will post it on this site as well. There is no registration for this event so it is not known how many really attend. We would guess that there were several thousand people on the final day. Chuck and Linda only found one other person from the US attending. Ryan Emge from Washington D.C. took about 1000 pictures at the festival. A CD with these photos will be available soon. This was Ryan's first Saab Festival and he made the most of it!

 

Saab Announces Adjusted Engine Warranty
Saab has recognized the oil sludging problem found in the 4 cylinder engines and announced an 8 year unlimited mile engine warranty. So far Saab has lived up to their advertised responsibility and repaired or reimbursed owners for repairs made to sludged engines. If you would like to know about this warranty and it's limitations please read the letter that Saab has endeavored to send to all registered owners. It is on the link provided here. The important part of the limitations is that you must have all the records of service for your car. If you are missing oil change receipts etc. you do not qualify for the warranty. Save all receipts just in case your car develops a problem. Chuck has been writing articles about the oil sludging issue in NINES magazine and most of the articles can be found on this site as well!

 

New Saturday Hours
In an effort to meet the needs of you, our Service customers, we are now open from 9:00 am till 2:00 pm each and every Saturday except holidays. We will have one of our fully qualified technicians and a service writer, who could also help you with parts, to take care of your Saturday needs and emergencies. Please call for an appointment to take advantage of our new hours.

The Saab/Subaru Sales team will be here for the new hours as well. Our Saturday hours will be the same 9:00 am till 2:00 pm and are open for appointments at other times. Check out the web site for your dream car, come out for a test drive. Saturday's are Great!

 

GM Picks Factory
March 4th 2005: GM has chosen the factory in Russellshiem Germany to produce both the Opel and new 9-3 Saab line. GM says that the Saab brand is not for sale and the plant in Sweden will remain open till 2010. GM says they are committed to Saab! It was announced that cars could be built for much less in Germany than Sweden in the larger factory. The Saab factory may become a niche plant building small runs of a variety of cars. It is not known yet where the new 9-5 will be built.

 

Car Wash
Andrews Inc. held their Free Car Wash on Saturday February 26th. The Youth Group from the Princeton E. Free Church washed the cars for a donation for their planned trip to France. The kids worked like slaves as the Saabs rolled in. There were a steady stream of cars from 9am-3pm which was the scheduled times. Many visitors took advantage of the opportunity to test drive the new 9-2x that Annette Adams brought in from Meyer Garage. We had a great turn out, 80 people registered for door prizes, lots of food and fun. We hope to see you all again next year for this event. We will have a link to some pictures and the door prize winners shortly.............

 

Saab Festival 2005
http://www.saabfestival.se/english/index_en.htm
This could be the last chance to attend a Saab Festival. With the changes taking place in Trollhattan one can not be sure that there will ever be another event like this one. Check out the link and see what is listed on the web site. We will be booking our rooms etc soon. Trollhattan is a small town so you don't want to wait. I think all the info you need to find rooms etc are on this web site. We have been to these events in the past and really enjoyed them!

 

Ceramic Brake Pads
Ceramic brake pads are now available for most Saabs at Andrews. Getting rid of the aggravating brake dust is just one of the advantages of these new brake pads. Chuck has written an article in Nines Magazine (January/February 2005 issue) that outlines the many advantages of the change. Ask our service writers about these parts when you need brake service! (View the article)

 

New Saabaru
The new Saab 9-2x available now is really a Subaru WRX underneath the Saab facade and the newest offering from the Saab/Subaru partnership is now displayed at www.Subaru.com. Subaru calls it a B-9, Saab has yet to announce the name it will call the car but it will be built in Indiana. Power is from the Subaru 6 cylinder boxer engine and all-wheel drive. I have heard rumors that there will also be a Buick built on the same line. All three cars are to look different but share many of the basic features.

 

Saab Factory/Saab For Sale?
There have been rumors about the Saab factory closing and production of the Saabs moving to Germany. That decision is to be made by General Motors in the next few weeks. GM asked for a reduction in cost for building cars in both Sweden and Germany. Both countries made proposals to GM and the one from Germany is supposed to reduce the cost of production by 50%. That would be quite a feat. In any event Germany does not want to lose Opel production any more than Sweden wants to lose the Saab factory. Saab made a very competitive bid as well. We should know the outcome in February or March of 2005. A Swedish newspaper ran a story in late February that GM has put Saab up for sale. Both Saab and GM deny it. The saga continues!

 

Weekly Pick up and Delivery
Since our expansion to a pickup and delivery service EVERY Monday in the metro area, the number of cars we transport has doubled! The response has been great. We expected an adjustment period with the numbers gradually increasing. Santorini's Restrauant,our new west metro pick up point, has been a big plus. Bill and Tony Nicklow, owners of Santorini's, have been great to work with. We encourage you to try their dinner fare when using our service. Just mention to Jerry, the maitre de, that you are a Saab/Subaru owner with us. We just love their Greek cuisine. We have a link on our website to Santorini's that includes a dinner menu on this site. Make reservations with our service desk to have your car transported. The cost is $12.50.

 

December 2004 Sales Record
Andrews Inc. experienced their very best December for car sales. In fact we doubled our previous best December sales record! Thanks to all of you who entrust your car purchases to us. We continue to strive to offer the very best quality pre owned cars anywhere!

 

Andrews is Now Selling Subaru!
As of June 2004, the Saab 9/2x is now being sold in dealer showrooms. As you probably know, General Motors Corporation owns all of Saab and a part of Subaru. Recently, GM decided to marry the two cousins to give Saab a broader product line in the shortest amount of time. GM has announced that the 9/2x will be manufactured in Japan for the next 4 years and later will be replaced by a car “to-be-built” in Sweden. GM has announced another crossover vehicle that will be labeled as a Saab/Subaru/Buick. It will be built in Indiana. The engine and AWD system will be Subaru.

We are committed to servicing Saabs regardless of where they are built and with whose parts. So, to do that we have to purchase the tools and obtain the training that’s necessary to do the job. The 9/2x is basically a Subaru. The engine, transmission and AWD are all Subaru parts and yet the body parts, safety features and much of the suspension are engineered by Saab. We think the only way to justify our investment in equipment and training is to have a large enough volume of Subarus to service. The solution for us was to make the decision to service these cars in general and the extra Subaru volume would help pay for the needed upgrades to fix Saabs.

I know many of you will not like seeing Subaru cars in our shop but we hope you will give it a chance. If Saab/GM does not sell many of the 9/2x cars and discontinues building them, we may rethink our options. On the other hand, we may end up liking Subarus and think you might too! We have found that the drive and feel of the Subaru is much like a Classic 900. I know there are lots of you who like those old cars!! I also know from our research that these Subarus take much less maintenance than the old 900’s. As I have explained many times, the technology in the Classic 900’s is dated from the 1960’s, 70’s, 80’s and it was still being built into the 1990’s. The engineers had to make all the improvements fit in the 1960’s designed box. Cars with that old technology could and did run forever but it took a lot of work (compared to the later cars) to see it happen.

When you visit our shop, give the Subarus a good look. Take a test drive and compare them to what you want and need in a car. GM didn’t just pick any car to team up with Saab. They picked a car that has a loyal following much like Saab. Currently, we are stocking several Outbacks and Foresters!

 

2003 Saab Owners Convention
The 2003 Saab Owners Club held their annual convention on September 12-14 in Hershey PA. Attendance was good but we didn't hear the total attendance at the convention. I think because of the dates and location the Midwest didn't have many attendees this year. Don and Chuck flew to the convention and enjoyed looking at all the old Saabs that have been restored and renewing acquaintances with all their friends from around the country and Saab folks from Sweden. The buzz in the Saab world is about the hot selling 03 9-3 and the new CV that was at the convention. Those that have driven these new Saabs are really excited about the changes. Part of the excitement is also about all the new cars that are going to be introduced in the next couple years. Debra Kelly- Innes the new CEO of Saab USA made a very nice presentation about the direction that Saab is taking and why. The new 9-2 that is scheduled to be out next spring and built in Japan by Subaru is to be an interim car as is the SUV that will be built in the US using a Trailblazer (9-7) as the starting point. It seems that Franchised Saab dealers need a bigger variety of products to compete in our market. Hence these new cars. The one at the bottom of the page and introduced in Frankfort is also rumored to be built in the next year or two. It is a new concept to have all these cars available that are called Saab. Don't be upset at all these changes!! Do we care what they build as long as they continue to build the safe durable cars we want? We don't have to buy any of the new variants and probably won't, we'll just buy the 9-5's and 9-3's unless the demand is otherwise. The buyers vote with their checkbook so we will have to wait to see if Saab and GM are making good decisions.

Another highlight of the convention was the seminar given by Eric Johnson about his rally car. It is now the property of Saab USA and resides in the training center in CT. Eric continues to pursue some of the missing pieces in the car's history but presented what is known at this time. Eric related some of the stories about Andrew's part in the restoration and Chuck's participation in the 1997 Northern Lights Tour from Oslo-Nordcapp to Trollhatten for the Jubilee Celebration of Saab. Erik Carlsson who drove and won the British RAC rally with this car attended the seminar as did Peter Backstrom from the Saab Museum in Trollhatten. Eric Johnson has done a wonderful job in preserving a part of the Saab history. Eric also drove the car about 35k miles going to shows, events etc. as well as two events in Europe while he owned it.

2004 9-3 CV

2004 9-2

Left is Erik Carlsson, Debra Kelly-Ennis CEO of Saab USA and Chuck Andrews

Open House Photos
We hosted our Annual Open House at the Mille Lacs County Fairgrounds on Saturday, June 14th, 2003. This year was our 30th Anniversary celebration. In addition to the Rum River Festival Parade, we celebrated the Swedish Heritage of Saab with a midsummer pole, Swedish crafts, music and dancing. There was also an import car show.
See photos from our 2003 open house

Andrews Car Wash
We washed over 30 cars on February 22, and had a great day. Many test drove the new 9-3 and approved of the many changes that are evident.

Photos:
Chuck Andrews, Linda and Marty Adams with new 9-3
Kelly just Loves it!!
Some just enjoyed the food and stayed out of the cold
Crew from the Senior Class of Faith Christian School washed Saabs to help pay for their class trip
Paul Poore and Marty Adams of Meyer Garage with table full of info on the new 9-3

Five from Andrews Inc. attended SOCO2 in Cincinnati Ohio
There were almost 600 Saab nuts from all over the country that converged to enjoy 4 days of hot humid Ohio summer. There were many nice cars shown in the concours with the best competition in the 93-96 classes. Saab USA unveiled the new 2003 9-3 Sport Sedan which we all got to look over. Nice car that I'm sure you will all be impressed with. Phil Lacefield did get the club to organize, so, we now have an official National Saab Owners Club. A president, vice president , secretary and treasurer were elected. Great convention with lots learned. The site for next years event will be announced in the next couple months.

Blacktop Project
Andrews has just completed today 7/25/02 the first phase of our blacktop project. You can now come view our pre owned Saab selection and not be standing in the gravel. We paved the driveway and customer parking as well. We are always trying to improve conditions here while still holding our prices down. We also installed a/c in our upstairs waiting area. Stop and see us on a hot day if you need your Saab repaired or just want to cool off!!

See Blacktop photos:
Photo 1
Photo 2
Photo 3
Photo 4

Open House Photos
We hosted our Annual Open House here at Andrews Inc. on Saturday, June 8th. We had attendees from as far away as CT, NY,MI and OH as well as the five-state area of MN, IA, WI, ND & SD. A silent auction of Saab parts and memorabilia was held from 7-10:45 AM. It went well with most all of the parts being sold. 16 Saabs participated in Princeton's Rum River Festival Parade and returned in time to enjoy a traditional Swedish meal. A scenic tour to Mille Lacs Lake on the back roads of rural MN rounded out the day. Winners of the Concours was a beautiful Daily Driver (red 98-9000CSE) owned by Phil Duckert. Best of Show winner was a tie between Jeff Schilles tan 68-96 and Tom Stepanick's black 91-900S. We settled the tie with a coin flip that Jeff won.
See photos from our open house

Mississippi River Tour Wrap Up, Saturday April 27th, 2002
Thirteen Saabs and their families hailing from Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Minnesota took part in the first Mississippi River Saab tour on April 27th. One daring Saab enthusiast even flew out for the event from Maine! We thought when planning the event that by the end of April the weather would be nice. We had hoped there wouldn’t be rain, but never in our wildest dreams had we planned for snow. Unfortunately we got both as a major spring rain/snow storm descended on the region for the day of the tour.

The tour started at the Dresbach rest area across from La Crosse, Wisconsin on the Minnesota side of the Mississippi river. We were able to kick tires and enjoy Saab talk as the Saabs rolled in. Participating were several classic 900s, including Don’s beautiful 900 convertible, several 9000s, two SPGs, a 9-3 convertible, a 9-3 Viggen, a 9-5 Aero, and an ’02 9-5 wagon. All models of modern Saabs were represented. I am not surprised that some of the older 2 strokes weren’t brought considering the weather.

The first half of the tour consisted of riverside roads along the Minnesota side of the river, a switch over to the Wisconsin side (where it snowed much of the time), and then to the Iowa side. In Prairie Du Chien, Wisconsin, a train crossing the road briefly held up the tour. This made for an ideal picture taking opportunity.

We stopped for lunch at Pikes Peak State Park in North East, Iowa. The vistas overlooking the Mississippi river from this park are incredible. Unfortunately lunch was a bit wet, windy, and cold, but everyone was a trooper and enjoyed the time anyway. After using an excessive amount of lighter fluid in order to keep the barbeque lit, we had awards and door prizes to give away courtesy of Andrews, Inc and Meyer Garage. Much appreciation goes out to both organizations as they always do what they can to support the Saab enthusiast community. Thanks also need to be directed towards the newly formed Saab Club of North America, which provided insurance for the event.

The second half of the tour offered some of the best roads in the Midwest. They climb up and down and around the bluffs heading south in Iowa towards Dubuque. Fortunately the rain had let up for this part of the tour and watching 13 Saabs carving up the countryside in unison was worth the price of admission. The views from the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi along this stretch are amazing. This is not the Iowa that most of us think of.

Late in the afternoon the tour terminated in Dubuque Iowa where many of us stayed for a late afternoon meal and to share Saab stories. The event was a lot of fun for all that participated. We definitely plan on doing it again, but hopefully next time without the snow.

Andrews Inc. of Princeton Selected as Top 10 Automotive Repair Web Site by AUTOINC. Magazine
Princeton, Minn., Jan. 15, 2002 - The Andrews Inc. of Princeton Web site has been selected by AUTOINC. Magazine, the official publication of the Automotive Service Association (ASA), as a Top 10 Automotive Repair Web Site for 2002. Andrews Inc. of Princeton is located at 3558 Brickton Rd. in Princeton, Minnesota. For the fifth year in a row, the January issue of AUTOINC. featured the Top 10 Automotive Repair Web Sites. Hundreds of Web sites were reviewed, and 15 finalists were selected and voted on by the AUTOINC. staff. Each site was rated in four categories: design and graphics, content, speed, and navigation. The sites selected for the Top 10 all have something unique about them that will help other shops in their efforts to create their own Web sites.

Chuck Andrews, co-owner of Andrews Inc. of Princeton, said, "We created the site to inform and educate Saab owners or potential owners about their chosen brand and how we can help them. We find that a high percentage of our customers use the site regularly. We have used a Web site for many years and continue to develop our format as we analyze results."

The complete list of the 2002 Top 10 recipients can be accessed through the AUTOINC. Web site http://www.autoinc.org.

The Automotive Service Association is the largest not-for-profit trade association of its kind, internationally serving more than 12,000 businesses and approximately 65,000 professionals from all segments of the automotive service industry. ASA’s headquarters is in Bedford, Texas.

ASA advances professionalism and excellence in the automotive repair industry through education, representation and member services. Additional information about ASA, including past news releases, is available on the ASA Web site http://www.autoinc.org.

Andrews Inc. of Princeton's quarterly news letter is now available on-line.
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