GM SHOWS SAAB AT AUTO CHINA
FOR RELEASE: June 2, 2002GM to Introduce New Saab 9-5 Aero at Auto China 2002
Beijing, China- General Motors is introducing the all-new Saab 9-5, a member of the Saab premium brand lineup, at Auto China 2002, which is being held in Beijing from June 5 to June 13. The top-of-the-line 9-5 model will officially go on sale across China during the show.
"China's entry into the World Trade Organization has helped stimulate sales of vehicles, including luxury cars," said Lori Williams, Director of Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing for the General Motors China Group." The introduction of the new Saab 9-5 is part of GM's continued commitment to offering a variety of products that meet the needs of Chinese car buyers. It will strengthen our import portfolio, which also features Opel and Cadillac products, to complement GM's domestic offerings.''
The new Saab 9-5, priced between RMB 530,000 and RMB 580,000, will initially be available through local dealerships in major markets, including Beijing, Shanghai and Guangdong. GM's nationwide aftersales network will guarantee a quality ownership experience.
According to Ms. Williams, the Saab 9-5 is targeted at the growing number of modern, highly educated and affluent Chinese consumers who are very discerning when making purchasing decisions. This is in line with the profile of Saab customers elsewhere around the world.
"With the continued development of China's economy and increase in personal incomes, the luxury vehicle segment is expected to keep expanding. This will provide greater opportunities for imports," she added.
The new 9-5 Aero combines superior driving performance, control and safety with unique Scandinavian design. Building on the success of earlier models, it features a powerful 2.3-liter turbocharged engine with 250 horsepower. It comes equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission. Advanced safety features include the unique SAHR (Saab Active Head Restraint), which is designed to reduce the risk of whiplash injuries. Its spacious interior has the amenities one expects in a luxury vehicle, such as automatic doors and windows, electrically adjustable seats and Automatic Climate Control. The chassis, ride and roadholding are carefully balanced to ensure consistency.
The 9-5 Aero has received worldwide acclaim since its introduction in Europe last year. It was one of the top vehicle choices for 2001 by the American Automobile Association (AAA), which cited the 9-5 Aero's powertrain performance, roominess, handling and high level of safety features.
A subsidiary of General Motors, Saab has a proud heritage that dates back to its roots as an aircraft manufacturer. It is a brand that is known worldwide for its attention to comfort, safety and innovation. Over the years, Saab has been responsible for more than 20 global industry firsts. In the first quarter of 2002, Saab had record sales of 16,052 cars.
General Motors, the world's largest vehicle manufacturer, designs, builds and markets cars and trucks worldwide. Last year it sold more than 8.5 million vehicles in about 200 countries and territories around the world. GM operates three joint ventures and two wholly owned foreign enterprises and has more than 3,800 employees in China.