Rolf Mellde (7 November 1922 – 19 March 2009) was a Swedish automotive engineer and executive best known for his work with Saab AB on the development of the company’s early automobiles and for founding an engineering consultancy.
Early life and education
Mellde was born in Gothenburg, Sweden. He pursued technical studies, graduating with a degree in engineering, though specific details of his academic background are not widely documented.
Career at Saab
- 1940s–1950s: Joined Saab, initially working on aircraft projects before transitioning to automotive development as Saab entered the car market.
- Saab 92: Played a key role in the design and engineering of Saab’s first production car, the Saab 92, which debuted in 1949.
- Saab 93 and 95: Contributed to subsequent models, particularly focusing on chassis and drivetrain integration.
- Saab 96 and 99: Oversaw engineering efforts for later models that incorporated advancements in safety and performance.
Entrepreneurship
In 1965, Mellde established Rolf Melde AB (later known as Rolf Melde Consulting), offering engineering and technical consulting services to automotive manufacturers and other industrial firms.
Later years and legacy
Mellde remained active in the Swedish engineering community, participating in industry panels and contributing to publications on automotive design. He passed away in Stockholm in 2009. His contributions are recognized for helping to establish Saab’s reputation for innovative, safety‑focused vehicle engineering.
