The uncertain future for Saab is nearing an end and dealers and customers will be delighted that four new models are due for arrival in showrooms here in Ireland next year.

The good news is that troubled General Motors is planning to sell the prestigious carmaker to a consortium of investors led by Swedish based Koenigsegg Automotive which manufactures high performance supercars. The deal is expected to be sanctioned by the autumn and will secure the car company's future.

The sale plan includes an expected $600m funding from the European Investment Bank which will be guaranteed by the Swedish government with financial support from GM and Koenigsegg Group to fund Saab's operations and product programmes. It gives a welcome green light for the launch of several new models in the final stages of development. Production of the new 9-5 saloon and estate will now go ahead at the company's plant in Trollhattan in Sweden.

"These models will arrive here next year. Also expected in 2010 is the distinctive looking new 9-4X crossover vehicle and there will also be a 9-3X, a four-wheel-drive vehicle," says Anthony Neville of the OHM group in Baldonnel, the Saab importers here.

The GM-controlled Saab company had filed for reorganisation in February and the confirmation of a memorandum of understanding is a key milestone for the company's survival.

As part of the proposed transaction, GM will continue to provide Saab with parts and powertrain technology. Jan Ake Jonsson, managing director of Saab Automobiles, says that the proposed agreement will mean a new product line-up "with a distinctly Swedish character".