The statement was made by Reilly during a meeting with North-Rhine Westphalia's state premier Juergen Ruettgers in Dusseldorf. By all intents and purposes, this may be the first hint to the GM Opel plan, expected to be presented by the American carmaker in front of the German and other European governments this week.
The CEO also said, Autonews reported, that Opel is eying a production output reduced in between 20 and 25 percent, or the equivalent of closing three plants. The most targeted Opel facility (still) is Antwerp, Belgium.
Earlier today, GM' Europe's CEO said, after a meeting with officials from the countries where Opel conducts its business, that the carmaker needs some $4.9 billion to set in motion its restructuring plan. Any help from Eu governments, he said, would be appreciated.
"We are looking for support of any government that feels willing to be able to provide us some financing support in the medium term," Reilly said.
In a somewhat soften tone of voice, German chancellor Angela Merkel said she expects, at the end of the year, at least a thank you from GM.
Merkel was the outspoken supporter of a Magna-Sberbank owned Opel, but saw the plan crumble after GM reversed its decision to sell its German operation.
"I expect a thank you letter from GM at the end of the year," Merkel was quoted as saying by Autonews.
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