Modifying a SAAB to fly lower and slower with less payload and reduced range does not add up to an economical proposition. Development, build and certification costs would also have to be amortized in calculating a profitable short sector fare which would far exceed market acceptance. Short sector routes from capital cities would be impractical with traffic holding and wx. requirements inhibiting utilisation as there is no ability to trade payload for fuel. Add to that limited alternates (ports with charging facilities) and slow turnrounds unless fast charging and or battery change is available would further reduce the aeroplane's ability to meet high frequency high utilisation short sector demand. Alan Joyce is correct, electric powered RPT a/c are decades from reality. Happy to be contradicted by those with experience and qualifications in a/c manufacture certification and regional ops,