issue

012009

eurotrend

MICA (P) 085/07/2008

ignition

Karsono KweeExecutive ChairmanTrans Eurokars

Greetings! Firstly, I would like to thank all Saab enthusiasts for your passionate and unwavering support.

It’s the beginning of a promising new year for Saab in 2009. We have recently launched the all-new Saab XWD. This intelligent all-wheel-drive system integrates with the power train and an electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential (eLSD), which ensures better grip, amazing cornering performance

and the most fun drive ever.

At the same time, we would like to welcome Edward Kor on board Trans Eurokars, who has duly been appointed as General Manager for Saab. Edward brings with him 13 years of experience in the automotive industry in Singapore. He has vast experience handling various functions for car companies. Edward moved up the ranks over the years and in 2003, joined Eurokars Group of Companies as General Manager for Opel.

Edward is now responsible for the operations of Saab and his experience and expertise will be pivotal in helping the Saab business navigate these challenging times and bring it to

greater heights in Singapore.

At Saab, we believe in creating an exhilarating and fun drive for all drivers. And rest assured we are committed to that work ethic for the Year of the Ox. Let us charge forward (safety belt on) and go on a bullish run together. Enjoy the

ride and have a good year ahead!

Message from our Chairman

Saab drives through tough timesMore than once in his distinguished career, Swedish rally driver Erik Carlsson pushed his Saab so hard it rolled over but thanks to its rounded roof, it wasn’t so hard to turn the car back on the wheels again. The Swede came to be known as Carlsson-on-the-roof.

Fast forward to present time, the anecdote pretty much epitomises the zeitgeist. Times are tough for the automotive industry but according to the spirit of Saab, we see this as a transformation which does not necessarily mean a bad thing. The bleak situation can be overturned. It is possible.

Going greenLately, Saab displayed several concept cars at major auto shows: cars running on 100 per cent bio-ethanol, hybrids powered by both bio-ethanol and electricity from lithium ion batteries and cars with solar cells.

Saab possesses the ability to make innovative ideas happen on the road. Consider the turbocharger and BioPower. In the 1970s, our engineers made it possible to put the turbo into series-production cars. And later, when most of the automotive industry didn’t want to look beyond petrol engines, we developed Saab BioPower.

For some years now, the Saab 9-5 and Saab 9-3 BioPower have been among the best-selling eco-cars in Sweden. Many abroad are slowly warming up to the eco-cars too. Meanwhile, the high demand for diesel-powered cars favours Saab as well. In fact, our turbocharged diesels offer more power and better fuel efficiency, which in turn means lower carbon emissions than with similar petrol engines. It makes so much sense to go with Saab.

Keep drivingIn a nutshell, Saab wants our customers to drive more economically, no matter what type of fuel in the tank. And do so without sacrificing on either power or performance – even in high gears. With our Saab 9-3X, which includes a new cross-wheel drive (XWD) system and the all-new Saab 9-5, things look very promising.

We are not insane to be talking about new models in these uncertain times. We understand sales in the industry are plummeting but we have seen it before. The best thing for us to do is to keep developing and building safe, efficient cars that minimise impact on the environment and are fun to drive. This is our philosophy in riding through the tough times. You see, people helped to turn Carlsson’s Saab over so he could continue his race. They knew something that’s just as true today: Never rule out Saab. We just keep driving.

the saab life

It was an afternoon to remember for the ladies – a chi-chi high tea set in the gorgeous FOST Gallery celebrating the talents of seven Singapore-based female artists complete with a swanky Saab revving up the glamorous occasion at the Woman on Woman: Lace exhibition.

Saab was the proud sponsor of the inaugural WoW exhibition, which showcases a myriad of paintings, printmaking and ceramic pieces from seven female artists such as Namiko Chan Takahashi, Marisa Keller, Dahlia Osman and Grace Tan. Using lace as a metaphoric theme, the artists interpreted the fabric in their respective works.

On 13 Dec, guests indulged in afternoon tea delights, rejuvenating massages, sharing sessions with Namiko and a Saab test-flight. Saab, possessing the feminine qualities of a collected demeanour and graceful prowess, shares a parallel theme with the exhibition’s celebration of womanhood. Guests left the event impressed with the aesthetics on display – the female-inspired artworks and a jet-inspired Saab.

Girl Power

Christmas came a little early for some guests at the Saab Leng Kee Showroom on 20 Dec as they were treated to a test drive of the all-new Saab Cross-Wheel Drive (XWD).

The test-drive event allowed guests to get a first-hand experience at the all-wheel-drive system that integrates with the power train and an electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential (eLSD). Think better grip, amazing cornering performance and the most fun drive ever. Besides the test drive, guests brought home a delightful gift to get into the festive mood courtesy of the good people at Saab. Cheers!

Saab XWD test drive a merry success

swede spotWe are responsible for our own planet Earth. In order to pass on a sustainable environment to our future generations, we need to limit climate impact. And Sweden has clearly been leading by example in its sterling drive to save the planet with its sound environmental policies.

In 1999, the Riksdag (Swedish parliament) adopted 16 environmental quality objectives (EQOs) and 72 national interim targets to limit climate impact. And to date, Sweden is one of the few industrialised countries to have reduced carbon emissions by almost nine percent between 1990 and 2006. Over the same period, the economy grew 44 percent.

An important reason for this is that oil is no longer used for heating purposes to the same extent and has largely been replaced by district heating based on biofuels. This is a clear indication of Sweden’s responsibility in reducing carbon emissions and fighting climate change.

We live in an era of responsibility and Saab, in its true Scandinavian spirit, is committed likewise to environmental sustainability. In fact, responsible performance is one of the core brand pillars of Saab. Together, we can help limit climate impact for future generations to come. Saab shares that responsibility.

With great power comes great responsibility

high revsShop till you drop when you refer a friend!We always believe in sharing the good things in life so when you successfully recommend a friend to Saab, we would like to reward you with a $500 shopping voucher. In fact, we would sweeten the reward with $1,000 worth of shopping vouchers if the referral is for the all-new Saab 9-3 2.8V6 Turbo Aero XWD model.

In addition to the referral reward, we are launching the exclusive Saab XWD Introductory Package for all Saab owners. From now till 31 March, enjoy up to $10,000 over-trade and 1-Year Free Road Tax and Insurance* when you purchase the all-new Saab 9-3 2.8V6 Turbo Aero XWD model. We know – the good things just keep coming.

* Terms and conditions apply. To be eligible for the free insurance subsidies, insurance will have to be purchased through Trans

Eurokars and at a cap of $3,000.

privileges

To usher in 2009, we are offering some new packages for all our customers! The Saab 9-5 Belt Tensioner Replacement Package, which comprises belt tensioner, drive belt and pulley, is priced at $398 only while the Saab 9-3 Belt Tensioner Replacement Package, which comprises belt tensioner and drive belt, is priced at $298 only! Sign up for these packages and be entitled to giveaway items while stocks last.

*All prices shown are before 7% GST and include Parts and Labour

charges.

Saab Genuine Accessories

Saab rolls out new packages at affordable prices*

Due to overwhelming response, we are extending the accessories offer once again! Our range of functional and practical accessories complements the Saab perfectly and we are pleased to offer them at special prices ranging from $48.80 to $79.80. They are available while stocks last so hurry!

Floor Cargo NetElastic net makes luggage compartment more practical and efficient during drive.

Side Cargo NetFits the right side of the luggage compartment and holds light items in place while driving.

Scratch Protection/Seating MatEasily folded and stored. Pulls out to protect bumper and vulnerable loads.

*For enquiries, please contact the Parts Department at 6360 2877.

snippets

In design we trustSaab has for decades been an advocate of using design in a wider perspective. At Saab, we firmly believe every design has a purpose. And the Design S/Swedish Design Award, Sweden’s most prestigious design prize, shares the same conviction in rewarding design solutions in any discipline. Thus, it is natural Saab is the principle sponsor of the award.

In the 2008 edition, the focus of the award was on design for sustainable development. With issues of climate change, poverty and quality of life in question, the award aimed to convince the world at large that good design helps to develop the individual, the organisation and the society.

The biannual award had witnessed a fair share of unique and environmentally sustainable designs from a manoeuvrable bicycle to a bishop’s vestment. The latter, designed by Lennart Koskinen, is stylish, light and comfortable to wear instead of being too abrasive and heavy.

Indeed, these designs are a testament of innovative thinking, which shares the same design philosophy with Saab. Saab is committed to continuously provide a platform for creative designs and solutions to improve our way of life and the way we live.

your sayHelp us to serve you better. Give us your feedback on any issue. It can be comments, suggestions, questions, brickbats or bouquets. We welcome them all. Please send all correspondences to Eurokars Centre, 12 Sungei Kadut Avenue, Singapore 729648. Or you can e-mail us at saabmktg@eurokars.com.sg.