Erik Carlsson opens new Saab showroom and repair shop Saabtech Welwyn, England

[nordwulf]

Saturday, April 7, 2012
From the Welwyn Hatfield Times



Saabtech Welwyn opened at the former site of Saab dealer Squire Furneaux in Brownfields on Saturday, heralding the car company’s return to Times Territory. The new business offers full servicing facilities in a five-bay workshop, MOT testing, body shop repairs and a shop selling Saab parts and accessories. At a weekend-long opening, former rally driver Erik Carlsson was on hand to welcome visitors, and to regale them with tales of his racing days.

The 83-year-old is an icon in the rallying world. A three-time British RAC Rally winner, Carlsson was born in Trollhattan, Sweden – home of Saab itself. He drove Saabs throught his entire driving career, and his subsequent PR work for the company earned him the moniker Mr Saab.

In 2010, Carlsson was honoured by the firm when it released a limited edition sports saloon in his name – the Saab 9-3 Aero Carlsson. At Saabtech Welwyn over the weekend, a replica of Carlsson’s iconic Saab 96 – the car that won him the three RAC rallies, the Monte Carlo rally twice and the Acropolis and San Remo Rallies – was on display. Saabtech was founded in 2007 by Ian Ward and Jenny Eldred, offering owners a one-stop shop for Saab owners.



By moving into WGC, the pair have restored a Saab presence in the town, following the closure of Squire Furneaux in January. “We are absolutely thrilled to be moving our family-run business to WGC,” said Jenny. “We have a very strong and loyal Saab customer base in the area and will continue to provide the very highest level of care and service.

“We are very honoured to have the legendary Erik Carlsson officially opening our new showroom and have his Saab 96 on display. “I’m sure all Saab owners will be delighted to chat with Erik about Saab and the iconic cars they have built over the years.” Saabtech Welwyn is offering all customers to their new showroom 10 per cent off their first bill during April.

[rpiereck]

I can only wish them good luck with the business!

[Lex Andrews]

That's the dealership site, where my car's from..