GM CEO Mary Barra's journey to transform the company with electric vehicles and self-driving cars. Challenges in getting EVs to market, competition with Tesla and Ford, and frustrations with GM's driverless cars service are discussed.
GM aims to become an electric-car powerhouse by focusing on improving core business and reallocating resources to prioritize EV production, despite facing challenges such as the Chevy Bolt recall and competition from Tesla and Ford.
Mary Barra, CEO of GM, has successfully navigated a major safety scandal, emphasizing the need for cultural change within the company and positioning herself to lead GM's transformation in the changing automotive landscape.
Deep dives
Mary Barra's Vision for GM: Electric Vehicles and Self-Driving Cars
Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors (GM), set big goals for the company in terms of electric vehicles (EVs) and self-driving cars. GM aims to provide electrification and mainstream customer acceptance. While there have been some challenges and frustrations in execution, GM has made progress in these areas. Barra's focus on the core car-making business has resulted in improved quality, market share, and profitability. Additionally, she has made bold moves, such as canceling plans for a gas-guzzling Cadillac and reallocating resources to prioritize EV production. However, setbacks like the Chevy Bolt recall and competition from Tesla and Ford have posed challenges. Barra remains optimistic and believes that GM is well-positioned to be a major player in the EV and autonomous vehicle transitions.
Mary Barra's Background and Crisis Management Skills
Mary Barra's journey to becoming CEO of GM was unconventional for the auto industry. With a lifelong relationship with GM, she worked her way up from an engineering co-op student to an executive. Barra faced a significant challenge early in her tenure when GM dealt with a massive safety scandal involving ignition switches. Despite the crisis, Barra handled the situation well, emphasizing the need to change the company's culture. She has focused on improving GM's core business, reducing costs, enhancing car quality, and achieving strong profitability. Barra's crisis management skills and commitment to learning from past experiences have positioned her to lead GM's transformation amidst the changing automotive landscape.
Challenges and Opportunities in Barra's Vision
While Barra's vision for GM's future in the EV and autonomous vehicle space faces obstacles, she remains determined. The recall of the Chevy Bolt due to fire concerns and competition from Tesla and Ford's EV models have impacted GM's EV plans. Moreover, the Cruise self-driving car unit faced issues with stalling and a pedestrian incident. However, Barra views these setbacks as temporary and believes that GM can regain its position as a leader in the industry. Her frustration with the lack of execution in EV plans highlights her commitment to delivering on promises. Barra's legacy as CEO depends on successfully navigating the challenges and realizing GM's potential in the EV and autonomous vehicle markets.
General Motors CEO Mary Barra is 10 years into her tenure and deep into her quest to turn GM into an electric-car powerhouse. WSJ’s Mike Colias profiles the CEO and discusses the challenges she’s faced in getting her big vision for GM’s future on track.