This morning, General Motors signed 100% of their shares of Saab Automobile AB over to Koenigsegg Group, bringing the super car manufacturer one step closer to finalizing the purchase of fellow Swedish automaker, Saab. Although the purchase is still subject to closing conditions, the deal is expected to close by the end of 2009, marking the official end of a 19-year-old parasitic relationship between the General and the Jets.

“This contract is an important step in the journey to a potential deal, said Carl-Peter Forster, president of GM Europe. “Saab’s great cars, its unique design, safety- and engine-technology, as well as its excellent brand image, combined with Koenigsegg Group’s unique combination of innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, bode well for a successful future for the brand. We will continue to work with all parties to define the final details and ensure a fast closure of the deal, which we expect to take place in the next few months. The closure of the deal is contingent on the funding commitment from the European Investment Bank (EIB), guaranteed by the Swedish government,” Forster added.

“We have now concluded another important step in realizing the great potential of Saab,” said Christian von Koenigsegg, CEO of Koenigsegg Group. “Our plan is to transform Saab into a stand-alone vibrant entrepreneurial company and make it ‘sustainable’ by making it profitable. We will revive Saab’s Swedish heritage of ecological sensitivity, safety, design innovation and ‘fun to drive’ experience!”

Jan Åke Jonssson, Managing Director of Saab, said: “This is excellent news for everyone connected to Saab around the globe. This is an important step to secure jobs and our long-term future as a Swedish carmaker. In the short-term, it will enable us to move forward with exciting new cars starting this month with the all new Saab 9-3X.”

Source: GM
Image Cred: Getty Images