Thousands queue before dawn for the last Saab sale
Saturday, August 9, 2025 will be remembered as the day Trollhättan’s old Saab factory opened its doors one final time to sell the last remaining parts, tools, and memorabilia from decades of Saab production. NEVS CEO Nina Selander described the day as “magical”, noting that queues began forming as early as 04:00 a.m., with some enthusiasts even sleeping overnight in their cars in the factory parking lot.
By the time the sale officially began at 10:00, the crowd stretched far beyond the gates. Saab owners and collectors had travelled from all over Sweden, across Europe, and even the United States to secure a tangible piece of the brand’s legacy.
From suspension arms to show banners
Once inside, visitors found a meticulously arranged trove of Saab history. Everything from pristine mechanical parts for 9-3 models, to prototype-only upholstery fabrics, to giant Saab display banners from international car shows was available.
Attendees could purchase:
- Original Saab seats, wheels, and control arms.
- Dealer and motor show displays like the iconic “Surf & Saab” banner with penguins.
- Saab-branded mugs, bottles, and promotional items.
- Rare engineering drawings, marketing prints, and paint sample plates.
- Historic memorabilia from the company’s design and production offices.
A bittersweet atmosphere – and a marathon day for staff
Selander, who has spent her entire professional life between Saab and NEVS, admitted the emotions were mixed:
“This day will stay with me forever. Saab people are incredibly loyal and positive — they keep the brand alive even 14 years after bankruptcy.”
Her team worked non-stop from opening until well past closing time. Although the sale was scheduled to end at 16:00, the last visitors didn’t leave until 18:30. Old Saab employees also came, both to buy items and to reconnect with colleagues and the brand that shaped their careers.
Saab community spirit shines through
The comments on Selander’s LinkedIn post reflected the day’s impact:
- Mikael Jakobsson called it “Fantastic, and at the same time so melancholy… Hats off to you and all NEVS employees who have been fighting like this for a long time.”
- Maria Söderberg described exploring engineering drawings with her 8-year-old companion, who now dreams of becoming an automotive engineer.
- Michael Törnros praised Selander for opening the doors and noted that the first person in line arrived at 04:20.
This mix of nostalgia, passion, and technical curiosity mirrored the tone throughout the halls — a reminder that Saab’s legacy isn’t just mechanical; it’s cultural.
Raising funds and buying time for NEVS’ future
Beyond the emotional value, the sale was also practical. NEVS is in the process of winding down, but proceeds from the clearance add to its cash reserves, buying more time for potential deals — especially the hope of selling the Emily GT electric car project.
As Selander explained:
“We have not given up hope. We are in talks, and as long as I’m here, I will fight to find a solution.”
A festival within a festival
The sale took place the same day as Saabfesten 2025 at the legendary Saab Stallbacka test track. Many visitors attended both events, turning Trollhättan into a Saab pilgrimage for the weekend.
Adding to the global coverage, Saab YouTubers Marcus & Manuela released their video The Final Saab Sale at NEVS – Trollhättan’s Last Saab Items Ever!, capturing the atmosphere, the crowds, and the sheer variety of items available:
The end of an era – but not the end of the story
While the factory grows emptier, the Saab story continues in garages, clubs, and events worldwide. The parts and memorabilia bought on August 9 now live on in restorations, displays, and private collections.
For NEVS, the sale was both a closing chapter and a rallying cry — proof that Saab loyalty endures, and that the brand’s cultural and engineering heritage remains in the hands of people who value it deeply.
