The move is effective immediately and will see Armand Import take over all marketing, sales and distribution responsibilities from GM CIS. Official sales are expected to start mid-2011.

Part of the Armand Group, Moscow-based Armand Import has many years’ experience in all areas of the automotive business and will be responsible for supplying and maintaining a national network of dealers in Russia. An initial dealer network will comprise 12 dealers, which are located in major Russian cities, and will be further expanded.

Saab Automobile president and CEO Jan Åke Jonsson said: 'I am delighted to announce this agreement with Armand Import. The company has a good track record in the Russian market and is, just like us, committed to excellent customer service and a long-term approach to business partnerships.

'The Russian market is an important growth market where we see a lot of sales potential for the Saab brand. As we are currently in the middle of the largest ever product offensive in Saab’s history, this is a perfect time for Armand Import to team up with our organisation.'

Igor Gerts, CEO of Armand Import, said: 'We are very happy to represent the Saab brand in Russia. Our company is proud to be associated with the Saab brand and its rich heritage, and we look forward to tapping the large potential in the Russian market for Saab vehicles.'

The announcement swifly follows the news that Saab has appointed China Automobile Trading (CATC) to take over the Shanghai GM operations as its new distribution partner in China.