The union is not looking for a bailout. Instead, it wants the U.S. government to pressure General Motors into freeing up access to some of the technology licenses that are necessary for the production of the 9-4X and the 9-5.
General Motors has repeatedly blocked the sale of Saab because of the license issue. The American automaker said that its biggest fear is that Saab's technology could wind up in the hands of a competitor - specifically, a Chinese one.
The letter sent to President Obama addressed that issue. It explained that the union wants General Motors to release just the most basic licenses, not any of the high-tech ones. The union also affirmed that Saab will never be a threat to General Motors.
"Saab Automobile has been a niche brand since it opened its doors in 1949. We will never be a threat to a large group like General Motors," said the letter.
A spokesperson for the union explained that the letter is also meant to show the Swedish government and parliament that it is indeed possible to contact the U.S. president.
President Obama has not yet responded to the letter. General Motors has not publicly reacted to it, either.
Bankruptcy administrators in Sweden have yet to announce how the remains of Saab will be split up. They are expected to make a final decision in the coming month. They have rarely given precise details on the matter but IF Metall claims that all of the potential suitors are very interested in developing and building Saabs in Sweden.
