[Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
You said:
"I think it's "scary" because these GM CEOs who have no idea is try to add more models just for the sake of adding the models."
That's not true at all! The reason for the 9-7X is that 30% of people who leave Saab do it for SUVs. Saab's late getting in the game granted, but they need an SUV. Dealers will bail on Saab if they don't give them more models. That's a fact. How can Saab sell cars without a huge dealer network?
You also said:
"They don't have a grip of the market (especially Euro) to even think of designing a new model. Because if they did, they would made a smaller car (with hatch :) to increase sales in Europe. Instead they are planning on getting 9-7X out when people are now starting to stay away from the SUV? 9-2X makes more sense."
9-2X would obviously sell better in Europe than a 9-7x, but we're talking about the US, which is the biggest market for Saab. But why not both? We're talking about expanding the brand and making it appeal to all different types of people, not just those that like hatches or SUVs (I don't like either). We have a Viggen convertible and 9-5 SEDAN. Do you not want this 2-Saab owner to be part of the Saab family b/c I don't like hatchback or SUVs?
You then said:
"For the longest time, MB, BMW only had sedans, but they did OK. I believe that's because they had A and 1 series that wasn't imported in US but was a cash cow in Europe."
MB & BMW did "ok" because they sold sedans, which is what the vast majority of Americans want - not hatchbacks. Those are seen as being "downmarket" or Japanese - not luxo-European. Sure, Saab built a niche market, but that can't keep them in business.
This comment was a real doozy:
"When you think of Porshe, do you think of anything else besides 911? It's not how many models you have that contributes to company's success."
Yes, I think of 911 immediately, but Porsche needed a SUV to be profitable and survive. They did it and are more profitable now than ever. Guess what? They're mulling a 4th model in addition to the 911, Boxster and Cayenne. It's all about volume of sales and economies of scale.
Then you say this:
"It doesn't make sense to buit a car in US only basing on weak dollar right now. If that's the case, they can/should make it in Korea to reduce the over all cost. "
Wow. I never said they should build a car in the US just because of a weak US dollar. Successful companies do however know how to hedge their bets and that's what building their cars in the company's largest market can do (US of A). Toyota, Mitsu, Nissan, BMW, MB, etc. ALL build thousands of cars in the US. Designed in Japan, Germany and made here. Does that mean they're not Japanese? Not German? Not quality? I don't think so.
posted by 63.127.202...
, Thu, 9 Dec 2004 10:45:01
, Thu, 9 Dec 2004 14:33:25
, Thu, 9 Dec 2004 16:27:45, Thu, 9 Dec 2004 14:40:56, Thu, 9 Dec 2004 14:42:23
, Thu, 9 Dec 2004 16:39:26, Thu, 9 Dec 2004 17:32:35
No Site Registration is Required to Post - Site Membership is optional (Member Features List), but helps to keep the site online
for all Saabers. If the site helps you, please consider helping the site by becoming a member.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
