Saab Creates New Partnership to Offer Exclusive Customization Opportunities
Saab Automobile and Hirsch Performance of Switzerland are working together to develop a portfolio of sporty engine, chassis and styling enhancements, branded Saab Performance by Hirsch, which will allow Saab customers an exciting opportunity to individualize their cars. Enhancements include the addition of a 305-hp 9-5 Aero model.
Norcross, GA - Saab has identified a growing number of enthusiastic customers who want to enhance the sporty individuality of their Saab car. Therefore, Saab has entered into a long-term agreement with Hirsch Performance AG, proven specialists with long experience in customizing Saab cars, to provide performance and styling enhancements for Saab customers. Hirsch will ensure these demands are met for current and future products in an exclusive way that is consistent with the values of the brand.
"Our customers express a clear preference for individuality and want to be able to customize their cars according to their own taste," said Thomas Lindskog, Saab Automobile's Aftersales Director. "Saab Performance by Hirsch products now allows these customers to go much further in terms of performance and design, sharpening the edge of our top of the line models."
A wide range of enhancements for current 9-5 models will be available in Europe starting in July. Saab Cars USA, Inc. is currently considering making the Saab Performance by Hirsch program available to U.S. Saab buyers. Customers in the U.S. who are interested in this type of customization are encouraged to contact Saab at 800-SAAB-USA or via their website at www.saabusa.com.
The extensive Saab Performance by Hirsch enhancements include engine and chassis upgrades to 9-5 Aero models, increasing maximum power from 250 to 305 horsepower and torque from 258 to 309 lbs.-ft. These numbers would provide the Saab 9-5 Aero with 133 horsepower per liter of displacement a feat unmatched not only by other luxury sports sedans and wagons, but also unmatched by any sports cars. Other Saab Performance by Hirsch enhancements include suspension, brake and wheel upgrades, and an even wider selection of exterior and interior sports styling additions, including seats, fascia and interior trim.
Customers can mix and match as they wish, ordering just one or two items exclusively through Saab dealerships, or specifying complete packages which will be fitted at Saab Performance by Hirsch centers, where staff are trained and certified to carry out the work. Saab Performance by Hirsch products will be fully guaranteed by Saab and Hirsch Performance AG.
"We are pleased to create this partnership because Hirsch Performance has the market knowledge and flexibility that is needed to develop these exclusive, relatively low volume types of product," explained Lindskog. "The character and design of these enhancements is very much an extension of the sporty, dynamic aspects of our brand and there will be no compromises as regards quality or durability".
Rene Hirsch, Chief Executive Officer for Hirsch Performance AG, said: "We are delighted to have this opportunity to work closely with a manufacturer such as Saab and we look forward to a long-term association that will also include developments for future product ranges.
"We both believe there is tremendous potential for this form of customer individualization. We have the flexibility that is required for this work and it is also reassuring for customers to know that these products are endorsed by Saab."