After a decorated 47-year career in the automotive industry, General Motors Vice Chairman Bob Lutz will retire effective May 1, 2010. Maximum Bob’s contributions to the trade are far too great to be named in a single article, but most recently the legendary exec spearheaded the return of the 5th gen Camaro, the development of the Chevrolet Volt, and – of course – led GM though its product-based reincarnation.
Lutz’s decision to retire came in part because of the success of GM’s newest and best-selling vehicles such as the Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac SRX, GMC Terrain, Chevrolet Equinox, and Chevrolet Camaro. The super-star executive and uber car guy is also very satisfied with GM’s transformation into a company with a product-focused culture, one that Lutz believes to be in place for the long term.
I can confidently say that the job I came here to do more than nine years ago is now complete – the team I have been fortunate to lead has far exceeded my expectations. Our product lineup is as strong as it has been in GM’s history. The perception of our products and brands is beginning to catch up with reality. And most importantly, the absolute commitment to being a product-driven company is ingrained throughout the organization – from the top down – and I am confident that, under Ed Whitacre’s leadership, the straightforward, singular focus on product will endure.
Lutz was appointed senior advisor to newly-appointed CEO and Chairman Ed Whitacre in December 2009. He will continue to provide guidance on design and key product initiatives until he retires May 1. Whitacre had the following to say about Lutz’ forthcoming departure:
The influence Bob Lutz has had on GM’s commitment to design, build and sell the world’s best vehicles will last for years to come. I, along with many other men and women in GM and throughout the industry, have greatly benefited from his passion, wisdom and guidance.
Lutz, 78, rejoined GM September 1, 2001 as the head of product development after having held positions at BMW, Chrysler, and Ford
The GM Authority Take
We image Bob will finally be able to fully enjoy his impressive collection of toys, including cars, planes, and suits. And Bob, you’re still welcome on the GM Authority podcast any time.
GM’s full press release after the jump!
PRESS RELEASE
Bob Lutz to Retire May 1
2010-03-03
DETROIT – General Motors Vice Chairman Robert A. Lutz will retire effective May 1, 2010, capping a 47-year career in the global auto industry that included senior leadership positions at four of the world’s leading automakers.
Lutz, 78, rejoined GM September 1, 2001, as the head of product development, and has led the company’s resurgence in developing great cars and trucks.  He also worked at BMW, Chrysler and Ford.
“The influence Bob Lutz has had on GM’s commitment to design, build and sell the world’s best vehicles will last for years to come,” GM CEO and Chairman Ed Whitacre said. “I, along with many other men and women in GM and throughout the industry, have greatly benefited from his passion, wisdom and guidance.”
Lutz said he decided to retire now in part because hot-selling vehicles like the Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac SRX, GMC Terrain, Chevrolet Equinox and Chevrolet Camaro, along with the growing strength of GM’s four brands, prove that a product-focused mindset inside the company is in place for the long term.
“I can confidently say that the job I came here to do more than nine years ago is now complete – the team I have been fortunate to lead has far exceeded my expectations,” Lutz said. “Our product lineup is as strong as it has been in GM’s history. The perception of our products and brands is beginning to catch up with reality. And most importantly, the absolute commitment to being a product-driven company is ingrained throughout the organization – from the top down – and I am confident that, under Ed Whitacre’s leadership, the straightforward, singular focus on product will endure.”
Lutz, a GM vice chairman, was appointed senior advisor in December 2009 and will continue to provide guidance on design and key product initiatives until he retires May 1.
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