Saab could run as a separate business in a move by General Motors to make the brand more attractive to potential buyers.

“Saab has been negotiating with GM and the Swedish government about becoming a more independent company, initially as part of GM,” a GM source said.

It means the Swedish carmaker would take control of its decision-making and finances, reported Automotive News Europe.

GM executives will decide Saab’s future before February 17, when they submit a business plan to the US government.

The sale of Saab has been part of GM’s strategic review which started in December.

Last week at the Detroit auto show, GM vice-chairman Bob Lutz said: “Frankly, they’ve have been on GM life support.”