The BT Changer and Saab Extra projects were invented and developed here in Hungary together with my friend Viktor Babrian. Viktor is a computer science and engineering who, in addition to working on many unique projects, has been developing programmable engine management systems under the name ETUN for race cars since 1999.
My name is Ákos Égő. I am an precision instrument technician by original profession, but I feel most at home among Saabs—my work is also closely related to this brand. Yes, Of course – we are both Saab owners. Viktor drives a 1997 Saab 9000 CD, and I have several models in my family, though I personally prefer the classic 900s. That’s I founded the Hungarian Saab 900 Club in 2000.
Our development partnership goes back a long way. Along with other colleagues, our first joint project began in 2007 with the production of E85 bioethanol converters (BioETUN). We were the first on the market to develop an E85 converter for direct injection engines, and we achieved significant success with our E85 injection systems for BiFUEL diesel vehicles as well. It was an exciting time, but due to changes in the market, we’ve had to pause the E85 project for now.
As Saab owners, we constantly faced various challenges and always thought about how we could make life easier for users left behind after the brand was discontinued. In 2017, we reimagined several problematic Saab electronic units. We developed our own mirror folding module for the OG 9-5, as well as a center brake light and rear LED strip retrofit module for the new generation 9-5.
I drive my OG 9-5 a lot, and the idea of a Bluetooth retrofit came from my own needs. From the beginning, we aimed for the best possible solution and took a completely new approach to development. In the spring of 2022, we launched our CAN-BUS Bluetooth audio adapter for the OG 9-3 and 9-5, but the momentum didn’t stop there—we quickly expanded compatibility to other models as well. The first-generation 9-3 Bluetooth integration was a major challenge, but we managed to solve it in a unique way. This kind of plug-and-play solution is one of a kind for this model. In response to user requests, the BT Changer Hands-Free mode was completed by February 2025.
Since we both drive vintage Saabs too, it was clear that we needed to develop a solution for the high-quality, period-correct Clarion head units. I’m proud to say that during our 2024 summer vacation, I was already listening to music via Bluetooth on the PU9903 Clarion in my OG 900. 🙂 The BT Changer Vintage version is coming soon, offering a plug-and-play solution for similar head units.
In early 2025, alongside the BT Changer, we launched the Saab Extra project, starting with two products: the SCL emulator to address critical issues in the NG 9-3, and the MFU (Mirror Folding Unit) for mirror repair in the OG 9-5.
We develop everything in our free time, driven by enthusiasm and alongside our regular work. We’re happy if we can contribute in any way to the Saab community. We have many more ideas and hope to keep going.
Best Regards
Akos
