Lutz will be replaced by Tom Stephens on April 1, when he will become vice chairman and senior advisor. He will "provide strategic input into GM's global design and key product initiatives" for the remainder of 2009, GM said. Stephens is currently executive vice chairman for global powertrain and global quality and will continue to oversee those activities in his new role. GM is restructuring its global powertrain operations for a "leaner, more efficient organization" and will organize powertrain manufacturing under Group Vice President Gary Cowger, head of global manufacturing and labor relations.
General Motors Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner lauded Lutz's "invaluable" contributions to the automaker's product lineup, saying, "I know the impact of his efforts leading GM global product development will continue for years to come."
In addition to his leadership within the company, Lutz's charisma and legend provided interest and a touch of glamour to General Motors and its events.
Inside Line says: Lutz probably would have preferred to go out on a more triumphant note, but time does march on. — Laura Sky Brown, Correspondent
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