Bob Lutz Appointed GM Vice Chairman

Just as we told you earlier today, Bob Lutz, who was initially awaiting retirement at the end of the year, will actually remain within the company as GM emerges from bankruptcy and continues US restructuring. The American manufacturer announced in a press statement today that Lutz will continue to work for the new GM as vice chairman and will be responsible for "all creative elements of products and customer relationships".

"I am pleased to announce that we are 'unretiring' Bob Lutz so he can fill this important position in the new GM," said GM CEO Fritz Henderson. "He has a proven track record of unleashing creativity in the design and development of GM cars and trucks. This new role allows him to take that passion a step further, applying it to other parts of GM that connect directly with customers."

Additionally, Tom Stephens in charge of product development and Ed Welburn, vice president of design, will work together with Bob Lutz "as a team," as General Motors said in the release. GM's brands, marketing, advertising and communications will report to Bob Lutz while he, in his turn, will report to Henderson.

Bob Lutz initially said he will retire at the end of the year but admitted that in case the new GM CEO would ask him to stay, he would really consider the offer.

“You work harder and harder, and it's tougher and tougher to achieve results. If I were 10 years younger, I'd tell myself: This is a three- or four-year rough patch. We'll come through it and at the other end there'd be pleasure and satisfaction, and it'd be enjoyable again. But I won't be here three or four more years now," Lutz said when announcing his retirement.