Saab Spirit Soars Again: Inside the Grand Reunion of 1800+ Former Employees

Saab’s Grand Reunion: A Night of Celebration, Memories, and Unwavering Pride

On September 28, 2024, over 1800 former employees of Saab Automobile converged for a momentous gathering that reignited the spirit of a brand once thought lost. The Grand Saab Reunion, held in Trollhättan, was more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it was a celebration of the professional pride, innovation, and camaraderie that made Saab a global automotive icon. With an electric atmosphere, speeches from notable former employees, and the ever-vibrant Saab community, this event stood as a reminder that Saab may be gone, but its spirit remains stronger than ever.

The Return of Saab’s Finest: A Night of Reminiscence

For many of those attending, Saab wasn’t just a job; it was a lifestyle, a calling, and a family. Attendees shared heartfelt stories of their time working at Saab, expressing how the company’s innovative approach to car manufacturing shaped their professional lives. This reunion was more than just a gathering; it was a symbol of the unwavering loyalty and camaraderie that still exists among Saab’s workforce.

Notable speakers included Per Olofsson, who set the tone for the evening by sharing his own personal stories, and Johan Bolin, who unveiled a monumental tribute to Saab—a 1.5-meter tall reproduction of the iconic Saab grille from 1993. The night was filled with laughter, memories, and mutual admiration, with every moment meticulously documented by Marcus and Manuela’s Saab Channel, whose video report captured the energy and emotion of the evening.

A Monumental Event for the Saab Community

This event wasn’t just a celebration for those who worked at Saab but a monumental moment for the entire Saab community. Saab enthusiasts worldwide tuned in to the live coverage by Saab Channel to witness the historic event. The presence of Tobias Bar, a former employee turned photographer, further added to the significance of the night, as he captured the very essence of the gathering.

From start to finish, it was clear that Saab’s legacy is more than just cars—it’s about the people who crafted them, the community that embraced them, and the spirit that refuses to fade away. The Grand Reunion became a place where long-time colleagues reunited, reminisced about old times, and, perhaps most importantly, looked toward the future with pride.

The Saab Spirit: A Legacy That Refuses to Die

During his speech, Peter Bäckström, the Saab Museum’s legendary figure, emphasized that Saab is the brand that refuses to die. His words rang true to everyone in attendance. Even though Saab stopped producing cars, the enthusiasm for the brand only grows. Saab, as Bäckström described, is more than a car manufacturer; it’s a cultural phenomenon. The loyalty of Saab enthusiasts—both former employees and car lovers alike—is a testament to the brand’s lasting impact.

He also mentioned the record-breaking number of visitors to the Saab Museum, proof that the brand’s legacy continues to inspire new generations. Saab, as Bäckström pointed out, is not just a car brand but a way of thinking and living. The fighting spirit of Saab, from the 1950s Mille Miglia victories to the development of groundbreaking technologies, continues to resonate with fans worldwide.

Celebrating Saab’s Heritage with a Generous Spirit

One of the key highlights of the night was the presentation of a substantial donation to the Saab Museum and the Saab Veterans Association. This symbolic gesture showcased the commitment of the former employees to preserving Saab’s heritage. 47,328 Swedish kronor were donated, further ensuring that the history and legacy of Saab will be maintained for future generations to appreciate.

The generous contributions also sparked new discussions about the importance of Saab’s veterans in preserving the brand’s legacy. From the museum’s exhibits to the veteran’s association activities, these dedicated individuals are the backbone of keeping Saab alive. Events like this reunion demonstrate how important it is to keep that legacy vibrant.

A Night of Festivities and Reflection

The reunion was not only about speeches and nostalgia but also a night filled with festivities and entertainment. After the formalities, the crowd enjoyed live music and a quiz that tested their knowledge of Saab’s storied history. Attendees indulged in food and drinks, with many reminiscing about the great times they had working for the brand.

The Saab Veterans Association also shared details about upcoming events, including exclusive lectures on Saab’s impact on the aviation industry and its collaboration with Swedish Air Force Historic Flight. These gatherings continue to foster a sense of community and belonging among former Saab employees, ensuring that Saab’s influence endures long after the last car rolled off the production line.

A Final Toast to Saab: Looking to the Future

As the night drew to a close, the reunion served as a reminder that Saab’s influence goes far beyond its automotive achievements. The Grand Reunion wasn’t just a celebration of the past but a call to continue honoring Saab’s spirit in the future. Jan Åke Jonsson, one of the most beloved figures in Saab’s history, was invited to the stage to much fanfare, a symbol of the fighting spirit that defined Saab’s turbulent final years. Though absent, Jonsson’s impact on the evening was undeniable, a reminder of the leadership and resolve that shaped Saab’s identity.

As the party continued into the night, one thing became abundantly clear: the Saab story isn’t over. The brand’s innovative DNA, its dedication to safety, and its commitment to quality live on in every former employee and enthusiast who attended the reunion. With more than 1800 people gathering to celebrate, Saab’s legacy remains a powerful force in the automotive world. The Grand Saab Reunion was not just an event; it was a revival of the spirit that built one of the most remarkable automotive brands in history.

Watch the Full Video Report of the Grand Saab Reunion

For those eager to relive the unforgettable moments of the Grand Saab Reunion, we invite you to watch the full one-hour video captured by Marcus & Manuela’s Saab Channel. While the video is in Swedish, YouTube’s closed captions feature allows you to easily translate the transcript into your preferred language. Simply enable CC and select the translation option.

Watch the video here:

Join the Saab community in celebrating the spirit, innovation, and pride that define this iconic brand. Whether you’re a former employee or an enthusiast, this video is a perfect way to experience the event firsthand!