Unable to find a buyer for Saab after a year-long search, General Motors said that it would begin shutting down operations at the Swedish carmaker.

With a narrow, though loyal, customer base focused on Sweden, Britain and the American Northeast, Saab has proved too small to lure the world’s big automakers, many of which are seeking tie-ups to increase economies of scale.

Saab will continue to honor warranties, while providing service and spare parts to current Saab owners around the world. Mr. Reilly said that the move was not a bankruptcy or forced liquidation, so he expected Saab to pay its debts, including those of suppliers.

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