Tom Stephens at the 2005 North American International Auto ShowBy Tom Stephens
Group Vice President, GM Powertrain
I’m going to jump into this blog from time to time as I see items that interest me.
Last week, someone posted: “In view of rising gas prices, when is GM going to get off the gas guzzler wagon and start building, promoting, and selling more fuel efficient vehicles?
Let’s explode that myth with some facts.
By Bob Lutz
GM Vice Chairman
Pontiac GTO Ram Air 6OK, where was I? I was discussing some of our brands like Saturn and Chevrolet. Let’s talk about Pontiac now. In the midst of all the Saturn excitement at the Detroit auto show, did anyone notice the interest of the public in the new G6 coupe and convertible? They, and the new Torrent SUV, are the latest entries in a Pontiac lineup that’s being replenished and expanded.
By Bob Lutz
GM Vice Chairman
Well, the Detroit show media preview week has wound up, and I’ve finally had time to scroll through the comments on these pages, and I must say I’m overwhelmed at the number of responses, and the enthusiasm contained therein. I wish I could reply personally to all of them but if I did I’d never get around to doing all the things you’ve asked me to do. I will, however, briefly address one issue that’s coming up a lot: As far as the blog goes, I, like many of you, also hope that we “get it.” I’m sure you’ll tell us if we don’t!
Watch the webcasts of GM North America President Gary Cowger introducing the 2007 Saturn Sky, and Bob Lutz introducing 2006 Cadillac STS-V and the 2006 Corvette Z06 at the 2005 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The auto show opens Jan. 15 and runs through Jan. 23.
By Bob Lutz
GM Vice Chairman
I’m seeing a lot of “chatter” here regarding the new Saturns unveiled at Detroit, which says essentially, “What we see ain’t what we’ll get.” Given the industry’s somewhat spotty record of taking concept cars to production intact, your concerns are understandable.
So let me put your fears to rest right here, right now.
I’m impressed with the passion and insight of you fastlane bloggers. Believe me: interiors definitely are as high on my list as they are on yours. Stuff like you see on HHR and Cobalt, H3, or the Sky will be the standard at GM going forward. Very much encouraged also by many of you acknowledging that you see the progress we’re making. You real people have more faith in us than many media seem to do! Pity I can’t reply individually to each of you. Keep up the flow, even though I might be too busy these next 2-3 days with the Detroit auto show to give much of an instant response.
Bob Lutz
By Bob Lutz
GM Vice Chairman
In response to the comment below on the G-6 interior: I would admit that the Accord has a great interior, as does Acura. But we’re talking much higher prices there. When the G-6 4-cylinder versions come out, you’ll see a substantial price difference in our favor to Accord.
Really happy and pleased to see the comments. I like the fact that Saturn still has your interest –
By Bob Lutz
GM Vice Chairman
After years of reading and reacting to the automotive press, I finally get to put the shoe on the other foot. In the age of the Internet, anybody can be a “journalist.” This is the first of many commentaries I will make on this forum, and I’d like to begin with, surprise, some product talk - specifically, Saturn products.
The FastLane blog is your source for the latest, greatest musings of GM leaders on topics relevant to the company, the industry and the global economy, and — most of all — to our customers and other car enthusiasts. We look forward to an open exchange of viewpoints and welcome your ideas and feedback throughout 2005.
