That heritage bodes well for the future. But is seems like the average car buyer is completely ignorant, as well as most of the motor journalists.

From the 60s to the early 90s, a few examples: First car with double diagonally divided brake circuits; headlamp wipers and washers; heated driving seat; a turbo, and related technologies, that actually works in passenger cars; an air filter in world class, for the passenger compartment, helped a lot of people; the APC, which helped the turbo engine work with different fuel qualities, or different octane ratings; Saab was first with asbestos free brake linings. Better environment, and better for those working with the cars; first front wheel drive car in the world to get ABS. Speaking about front wheel drive, many brands have now followed Saab, and moved to front wheel drive. First car in the world to get CFC-free AC; again, better for the environment, and better for those working with the cars. First car with ventilated seats, and active head restraint. Etc. etc. etc.

A car company like this is not like the average; it’s driving innovation for the benefit of all. Period.

I didn’t mention the advanced Trionic system above; take a look at this “promo” from 1992; the car with the Trionic was actually purifying the exhaust gases from older cars at the time. How about that!

http://youtu.be/-KgH6WT1paU

Saab has always been able to do it with little money during its history; as, for example, your mentioned example with the TTiD low emissions range, Swade. Class leading. Their greatest asset is their employees, true for most companies, but the Saab employees have been able to think outside the box. Again and again. That indeed bodes well for the future if the company is allowed to move on.