A Saab Specialist With Vision
In the world of Saab, where discontinued parts and unfinished projects leave enthusiasts searching for solutions, KM-Tronics has emerged as one of the most active innovators. Founded and led by Mark V. Kampen, the company is known for producing high-quality reproductions of discontinued parts, as well as developing completely new components inspired by Saab’s unique engineering philosophy.
From replica Hirsch springs for the 9-5NG to experimental ignition systems for T7 engines, KM-Tronics continues to demonstrate that Saab’s legacy is far from over. Enthusiasts know the brand not just for replacement parts, but for forward-looking projects that keep Saab relevant on modern roads.
The latest milestone in this journey is the LED bar project for the Saab 9-3NG SportCombi — a development that bridges the aesthetic gap between the 9-3 estate and the iconic 9-5NG.
The LED Light Bar Project: Modernizing The Saab 9-3NG Sportcombi (Wagon)
The Saab 9-3 SportCombi (2005–2012) always stood out with its clean Scandinavian design and practical appeal. Yet, unlike the Saab 9-5NG, whose rear LED bar became a futuristic design signature, the 9-3 estate never received a similar update.
KM-Tronics is now changing that. Their new LED Light bar prototype integrates seamlessly into the rear hatch, glowing with the same unmistakable Saab character.
The project timeline so far:
- Initial epoxy casts tested resin flow and housing shape
- Refined glass prototypes established the final form
- Electronics and chrome detailing are now being integrated
- Finalized production molds are complete and undergoing testing
Production will begin in late 2025, with batches of 20 units planned for December. For Saab owners, this is not just an accessory — it’s a way to update the 9-3NG estate with the design language Saab itself pioneered.
Beyond Lighting: A Portfolio Of Saab Innovation
The LED bar may be the centerpiece, but it’s only one part of KM-Tronics’ mission. The company continues to expand its portfolio, solving critical shortages in the Saab ecosystem.
Saab 9-5NG Hirsch Replica Springs
To reproduce the rare Hirsch Performance springs, KM-Tronics reverse-engineered OEM units, tested them across thousands of kilometers, and validated compatibility with the hyper strut suspension. These replica springs are now available.
👉 Buy the springs here
Saab 9-5NG EU-Spec Hyperstrut Springs
Since Hedin stopped producing them, KM-Tronics is preparing a limited run of 40 sets of authentic EU-spec hyper strut springs. This ensures 9-5NG owners won’t be left stranded by obsolete suspension parts.
The Unfinished Chapter: Saab’s Twin-Turbo V6
Among the most ambitious projects is the resurrection of Saab’s B284XR twin-turbo V6 engine prototype. Originally meant for a Turbo X-R, this powerhouse was rated at 500 hp and 650 Nm — performance figures GM deemed too threatening to the Corvette lineup.
KM-Tronics secured one of these engines during the NEVS liquidation. In summer 2025, a YouTube series will document its installation into a donor chassis, along with detailed coverage of the Saab-developed T9 ECU system that never reached production.
Preserving The Convertible Glow: 3rd Brake Light Glass
For the Saab 9-3NG Convertible, KM-Tronics is reproducing the rare “ice cube” third brake light glass. OEM supply has dried up, and demand is growing. The only challenge is longevity: while the factory edges lasted 15 years before discoloration, prototypes fade after 6 months. Once perfected, the part will ship in batches of 15 units every two months.
👉 See the prototype here
Digitalizing Saab Diagnostics: WIS 2025 Project
Every Saab enthusiast relies on WIS (Workshop Information System). But since updates ended around 2018, the tool has become increasingly outdated. KM-Tronics is creating WIS 2025, which will allow users to search directly via DTC codes.
Features include:
- Direct linking to valid OEM WIS sections
- Newly written instructions where OEM data is missing
- Free access for all Saab owners
- Bi-monthly updates to expand coverage
The first release, tailored to the 9-3NG, is expected by the end of 2025, with later expansion to the 9-5NG and other models.
Heavy-Duty Ignition: Modular DIC For T7 Engines
The Saab Direct Ignition Cassette (DIC) is a known weak point, especially in tuned T7 engines. KM-Tronics is developing a modular heavy-duty DIC, inspired by Saab’s original SEM 3.7 prototype.
Key advantages:
- Interchangeable coils
- Enhanced cooling for durability
- Close-to-OEM design for aesthetics
This project directly addresses the frustrations tuners have with Hedin’s current replacements, which often fail under higher loads.
Keeping Saab Alive, One Project At A Time
From lighting systems to suspension parts, from diagnostic tools to engine prototypes, KM-Tronics is proving that Saab innovation is alive and well. Each project doesn’t just preserve Saab history — it extends the brand’s engineering spirit into the future.
For the 9-3 SportCombi, the upcoming LED bar is more than a design update. It is a declaration that Saab’s identity remains visible, glowing red against the night, as relevant as ever.
Follow progress and upcoming releases here: KM-Tronics Upcoming Projects
LED bar and rear lights for NG9-5 please
Love this.
Was thinking how to update the back on my wagon… and then..
Do wonder how much this would be.. 😬
TO Steven Ouse:
We dont know exactly just yet as its mostly depending on assembly time which is done by hand. So best I can give is a guess. We’re aiming to keep the price between 235-385 euro. But keep in mind its a guess it might be a little less or a little more.