GM Extends Saab Deadline?

OK, this wait is getting quite tiring. However, it is better than the alternative - shutting down Saab altogether. Current General Motors management is making an effort to get the brand sold rather than just shutting it down, and that is a good thing.

One of the rumored reasons for the departure of GM's recent Chief Executive Officer Fritz Henderson is that he just wanted to shut down the brand, in opposition to the board. Now it seems as if the company is extending the deadline.

Around the time of the Los Angeles International Auto Show, GM announced they would be considering bids for Saab until December 31st, 2009. Paul Akerlund, the head of the IF Metall trade union, is saying that the date is not in set in stone for a Saab closure, as GM is attempting to close a deal.

Apparently, Merbanco's bid is back in consideration, after an earlier quote this month from the company's CEO indicated they were out of the running.

Spyker's CEO Victor Muller has been speaking out as well, telling Swedish newspaper Svenska Dagbladet that "We expect an answer this week ... I am very optimistic." Meanwhile, outlets are reporting that the Saab 9-5 sedan could be rebadged for use as a future Buick model. Confused yet?