Its happened before, but this time its for real.
Outspoken father of the Volt and ultimate car guy “Maximum” Bob Lutz will retire effective May 1st.
Lutz, who just turned 78 has decided to end his 47 year career as an automotive executive.
He is credited with first envisioning and pushing GM to develop the Chevrolet Volt concept in an effort to leapfrog the Toyota Prius for green appeal and has stewarded the program all along, calling it his proudest achievement.
His fascinating and often brutally honest quotes and quips have spiced up this blog as well as the greater media throughout the past 3 years. I have had the honor and pleasure of meeting Mr. Lutz on several occasions and have even sat down for dinner with him. He has responded to every email I ever sent to him, and for that I am grateful.
“The influence Bob Lutz has had on GM’s commitment to design, build and sell the world’s best vehicles will last for years to come,” said GM CEO Ed Whitacre in a statement. “I, along with many other men and women in GM and throughout the industry, have greatly benefited from his passion, wisdom and guidance.”
For his part Lutz says it is time to go because his work is done.
“I can confidently say that the job I came here to do more than nine years ago is now complete – the team I have been fortunate to lead has far exceeded my expectations,” Lutz said. “Our product lineup is as strong as it has been in GM’s history. The perception of our products and brands is beginning to catch up with reality. And most importantly, the absolute commitment to being a product-driven company is ingrained throughout the organization – from the top down – and I am confident that, under Ed Whitacre’s leadership, the straightforward, singular focus on product will endure.”
I sent the following message to Mr. Lutz:
Thank you for the Volt and all the interesting news and comments of the last three years.
I and the GM-Volt fanbase wish you all the best and a very long and enjoyable retirement.
To which he replied:
Thanks, Lyle. I do hope they extend an invitation to me for the big launch ceremony!
This entry was posted on Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010 at 4:30 pm and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.
+4
Mar 3rd, 2010 (4:35 pm)I guess he’s old enough to retire.
Wonder if he can afford to ? Social Security checks are pretty small.
+2
Mar 3rd, 2010 (4:52 pm)I have previously made enough comments here about Mr. Lutz to suffice. I have even speculated that he has probably stricken me from the real “wait list”, LOL. Still, nobody can deny that he is a real “car guy” to the core. And that’s a pretty big compliment where I come from.
I am reminded of the great LA disc jockey Frazer Smith. Every day he would sign off his radio show by saying:
“Shecky, get the jet. I’m outta here!”
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (4:57 pm)I would guess he is off to host a US version of Top Gear.
Cheers Bob
+3
Mar 3rd, 2010 (5:00 pm)Over 45 years in the business. I would guess he has few hundred million stashed away at least. His kids and grand kids will live well.
+12
Mar 3rd, 2010 (5:01 pm)When they announced the cancellation of the Converj, I suspected Lutz was no longer calling the shots.
+2
Mar 3rd, 2010 (5:07 pm)Best wishes, and thank you.
=D—-[Volt}
+13
Mar 3rd, 2010 (5:15 pm)He truly is the father of the Volt and a technology that will save our country if GM, the electric utilities and the government don’t blow it.
Cheers for Mr. Volt!
+5
Mar 3rd, 2010 (5:17 pm)Bob Lutz is a national treasure, IMHO. I wish him nothing but the best, and thank him for his passion and candor.
+7
Mar 3rd, 2010 (5:27 pm)Besides my father, no one I know better epitomizes the statement “Age is a State of Mind” better than Bob Lutz. At a time when GM desperately needed maverick voices and charismatic leaders, Bob stood tall. IMHO, GM still needs such folks – I sure hope Bob’s sentiments that “most importantly, the absolute commitment to being a product-driven company is ingrained throughout the organization – from the top down – and I am confident that, under Ed Whitacre’s leadership, the straightforward, singular focus on product will endure” is true.
Whether it was speaking to a large gathering, or simply chatting 1 on 1, Bob has a unique way of connecting with his audience. I wish him all the best!
+3
Mar 3rd, 2010 (5:44 pm)Sorry to see you go, all the best Bob! Enjoy your retirement.
Mar 3rd, 2010 (5:46 pm)Bye Bob…
+3
Mar 3rd, 2010 (5:57 pm)We love ya Bob. Have a wonderful retirement.
+4
Mar 3rd, 2010 (5:58 pm)I Love Bob. He is a real car guy and a straight shooter …..
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (6:02 pm)Bob Lutz is doing a good job with the Volt.
Now that the Converj has been put to bed. Much will happen in the weeks before Bob’s retirement. We will either notice a push to start a Volt demo drive program. Or we will see a list of murky excuses why moving forward should be placed on hold. I honestly expect one last attempt by GM to play the “loan” card. And further darken their image.
Strong supporter of the Volt former CEO Fritz Henderson is gone. Battery Director Gray is gone. Spokesman and R&D specialist Weber has been moved to a European leg of GM. And father of the Volt Lutz is retiring.
The future of GM now rides on CEO Whitacre. The automotive world will soon realize the direction GM is headed. Thank Christ for all the other manufactures providing EV to the buying public.
As Noel has stated.
What of the other 50,000+?
=D-Volt
+8
Mar 3rd, 2010 (6:16 pm)Good bye, Mr. Lutz.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for the Volt.
Have fun in retirement.
+5
Mar 3rd, 2010 (6:31 pm)#14
I heard something on NPR yesterday about a GM program to bring in “civilians” to test drive the Volt. It was very short, and sort of an add on to yet another story about the problems of Toyota. I believe that they even quoted and/or interviewed a GM employee. The sense I got was that it was going to be done on a very controlled basis with a GM engineer always riding along. They said something about controlling liability, and not just letting the pre-production cars loose on the roads in the hands of the public. Still, if they were operating with current information, maybe the demo drive program is alive at some level.
As to the wait list, I assume tht about 49,990 members are in good shape. As witness the nice comments about Mr. Lutz so far on this thread. There are just a few of us who have probably exceeded our allowance of snarky comments over the past many months. I won’t mention any names. You know who you are, LOL.
+5
Mar 3rd, 2010 (6:31 pm)Bob Lutz (and Jon Lauckner’s) vision should be honored by Ed Whitacre and GM.
Perhaps the first 1000 Volt’s could have a small gold plate on the dash that reads…..
“Lutz & Lauckner – Limited Edition”
+6
Mar 3rd, 2010 (6:33 pm)/pour one more ‘pink tie shot’ out for the Volt’s homie
+3
Mar 3rd, 2010 (6:40 pm)First dibbs on the “pink” tie. Semper Fi and fair winds and following seas Bob. Best of wishes from a fellow veteran
+4
Mar 3rd, 2010 (6:42 pm)Take care Bob. I hope Ed and Co. keep up the tradition of replying to all of Lyle’s e-mails. Say what you want about Lutz, but that’s cool that he would take the time to do that.
Mar 3rd, 2010 (6:55 pm)Ed seems to believe changing the culture requires changing the people.
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (7:04 pm)LOL!
+16
Mar 3rd, 2010 (7:06 pm)Sorry to see you go, Bob! Your contributions to Gm in general, and the Volt specifically, are appreciated more than my feeble vocabulary could ever do justice. Have a long and exciting “Post-vocational Period” (the word “Retirement” will never be a good fit for you).
I *do* hope that you will be at the Volt’s launch (maybe you could bring Lyle one of your lucky ties).
Be well and God Bless,
Tagamet
PS Please, don’t mind the snarks. You know how they can be.
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (7:07 pm)Best to Mr. Lutz. Probably the best car guy at GM since Pete Estes.
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (7:38 pm)#22
You got that right. I’m still trying to figure out how to stretch mine out to cover my Volt payment, LOL. I figure I’ll wait until I’m 70, in 2013, when it maxes out. That’s about when I’ll get far enough up the list to get a Volt anyway, hehehe.
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (7:49 pm)I wonder if Bob is why the Volt has quote “too much battery”? My thought? More is always better. Especially when you’re talking about speed and power.
Mar 3rd, 2010 (7:59 pm)My Dad always used to say “If some’s good, more’s better”, LOL +1
+4
Mar 3rd, 2010 (8:02 pm)They should invite him to do a fly-over to celebrate End-dependence Day.
+2
Mar 3rd, 2010 (8:05 pm)I would love to have a beer with that guy. Loosen him up and get him to say what he really thinks…
But seriously, it takes a certain class and some wise perspective to take the sunshine of momentary attention and reflect some of it on your hard working team. He knows they deserve it as much if not more than he.
More than having a beer with just Bob, I would love to have a beer or whatever beverage with Bob and the whole Volt team. Bob, Frank, Denise, Tony, Andrew– I can’t remember, I know I’m forgetting important people– and the whole lot of em. All the employees whose videos have shown us the progress, all the engineers who have let us take a peek into their interests and their lives online. They’re greats all of em, and I’d hoist more than a few pints to toast ‘em.
Have a good time now, Bob. I think that you’ve exhibited a confident grace in bringing this automotive revolution about.
Mar 3rd, 2010 (8:07 pm)It would fit the nickname, “Maximum Bob”.
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (8:09 pm)Tag,
Thank you for your excellent comment. A big +1, as I couldn’t have said it better.
Bob,
I’m going to miss you. I always enjoyed your comments like:
“The Chevy Volt is an Inconvenient Truth”
or at VoltNation (paraphrased)
“We wanted to make the most efficient car on the market, not to mention take the opportunity to give Toyota a big kick in the teeth”.
Hope you get to attend the Volt Launch!
Bill
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (8:12 pm)Happy trails to you Mr. Bob Lutz !
Mar 3rd, 2010 (8:14 pm)Well said, but we’d need to rent a Hall for the party. Given that we’ll all need Volt’s in which to arrive, I’ll even volunteer to be the designated driver post-celebration.
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!
Mar 3rd, 2010 (8:18 pm)Thanks for the kind words, Bill.
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (8:28 pm)Mr Lutz, the Volt’s champion, and most of its major supporters now are gone.
It is worrisome. Even at this late hour, one does wonder whether Volt will make it out the door.
I hope so. At least the first 10K.
Mar 3rd, 2010 (8:28 pm)#31
I think I said it once before, but do you know where the nickname “Maximum Bob” came from? It was the name of a judge in a famous Elmore Leonard novel by the same name. So called, not to restate the obvious, for his “throw the book at ‘em” sentencing record.
Mar 3rd, 2010 (8:40 pm)I have an american legion hall in my home town that would be ideal for such a gathering. Hooah Bob and aieeah. Enjoy the long road to the fiddler’s green.
Mar 3rd, 2010 (8:46 pm)Thanks for the Volt, Bob. It was long overdue. You’ve made it possible for me to be a GM customer and buy American again. Better late than never.
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (8:56 pm)Maximum Bob, we’ll miss you and your outrageous chutzpah.
Be interesting to see where you land in your ‘retirement’. Lol, retirement.
Logon and drop us a line.
Mar 3rd, 2010 (8:58 pm)I wish I could have had the career path of Bob Lutz.
Mar 3rd, 2010 (8:58 pm)“Thanks, Lyle. I do hope they extend an invitation to me for the big launch ceremony! ”
You got my vote for that!
LJGTVWOTR – NMST
-8
Mar 3rd, 2010 (9:02 pm)So this sounds like Bret Farve, neither are smart enough to retire, they love what they do so much. I retire, but I’m back.. I’m retired, again… Maybe I should come back.. Guys, make up your minds, I know your greedy, but seriously.
Mar 3rd, 2010 (9:10 pm)Yeah, actually I do know the origin. E. Leonard stole the nickname for his character from Lutz. (Just kiddin, but I’ll check)
Be well,
Tagamet
Mar 3rd, 2010 (9:15 pm)As everyone else is saying, thank you Bob for your pivotol role in moving the Volt and Voltec forward. I do believe you are leaving GM in a better position in your sphere of influence than when you rejoined them.
I do hope that the current management and your team are commited to advancing the Voltec program as part of their “singular focus on product”.
Mar 3rd, 2010 (9:20 pm)_____________________________________________________________
Mr. Lutz,
Thank you for the Voltec Program; you are a standup guy. Sorry to see you go.
Best wishes.
_____________________________________________________________
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (9:25 pm)Big Fan of Bob Lutz!
Still can’t understand why Chrysler didn’t keep perfecting his LH platforms! (Love my 300M Special)
Plus I’ll never forget his “Global Warming is crock of ****”. (Who would have known he was foretelling the leaked emails
)
Good Luck Bob! I truly hope someone comes along that can even start to fill your shoes!
Mar 3rd, 2010 (9:42 pm)Noel re Nickname Maximum Bob
It’s amazing what a diversity of “reality” exists about Bob on the ‘Net. The general theme that holds the “majority”, is that he simply has a love of vehicles that have the most power, speed, size, quality, etc. No vehicle could have too much power or speed. It certainly fits his behavior/interests, etc
Here’s one of the links that distorted reality the least. I finally had to do a search that ruled out the word “denier” (lol).
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/19/business/19auto.html?_r=2&scp=1&sq=robert%20a.%20lutz%20volt&st=cse
Be well,
Tagamet
Mar 3rd, 2010 (9:47 pm)Thanks Bob, for all your work in the industry. And thanks for sticking with your beliefs and following your dreams.
”Be Yourself. Everyone Else Is Taken!” …Charlie Schulz
=D-Volt
Mar 3rd, 2010 (9:58 pm)I heard a saying once. You can never be too good looking, have too much money, or have a car with too much power
-7
Mar 3rd, 2010 (10:03 pm)Is Lutz the guy being referred to when Audi’s president said “The Volt is a car for idiots.”?
If it turns out that the Volt is just a parallel hybrid (with a larger battery), then Audi’s president has a good point.
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (10:03 pm)Didn’t you get the email??? *Anyone*, and I do mean *anyone* who noticed this pattern, was NOT to render it to writing. Doing so is, er, it’s, uh, “inappropriate”. And on a thread about Maximum Bob’s retirement? Seriously!?!
Where do they GET these folks?? (sigh).
(Just, kinda, kidding)
Be well,
Tagamet
+2
Mar 3rd, 2010 (10:11 pm)Best of luck Bob
Case of GM i expected it because they are going through a model change ( as first reflections in numbers and ford over took GM ).
The previous model GM worked was with lot brands and sell less volumes on a model compared to segment leaders and just by brands catch up the numbers
The New model seems create global segment leaders in areas and it will take some time to get this game right/reflect in sales. So players changes , way of play changes and they have to convince the spectators that the game changed.
May be if they don’t win in this game , i think there is no more chances left because all the stopped brands customers and those brand values will be gone ( ex: oldsmobile )
Mar 3rd, 2010 (10:22 pm)Congratulations Bob.
In the words of that famous blogger, *LRGVProVolt,*
Happy trails to you ’til we meet again.
Michael
-11
Mar 3rd, 2010 (10:22 pm)(click to show comment)
+4
Mar 3rd, 2010 (10:23 pm)I make a sad prediction, with Lutz gone, something tragic will end the Volt’s life. This is sadly normal operation for GM. I at this moment wish it weren’t so, but after every great leap forward GM makes, the things that don’t cut new ground, like the new Camaro get pushed on us. I HOPE I’M WRONG!
Mr. Lutz, Thank you for your time, and may your retirement be full of happiness, and the abillity to enjoy the fruits of your labour!
Mar 3rd, 2010 (10:43 pm)Maybe Bob Lutz should come out here in California (in the warmer climate) and go work for Tesla or for Fisker. He still has a lot to give in terms of technical guidance and consulting for the new electric car segment.
Eugene
p.s. Thank you Bob for your important contribution in the VOLT revolution!
Mar 3rd, 2010 (10:47 pm)Thank you, Mr. Lutz, for everything you’ve done to take the Chevy Volt from being a dream to making it reality. I believe the wisdom of your decisions have already been shown in enormous good will toward Chevy because of the volt program, and is about to be shown by tends of thousands of passionate Volt owners worldwide.
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (10:51 pm)IF there’s more to Bob’s departure than his voluntary retirement. IFDenise saw which way the wind was blowing, and got out first. IF the Converj is not an isolated incident. IF.
Bob was the one person able to meaningfully penetrate GM’s stultifying, stratified culture. If there is a hidden meaning behind the recent data points, we could be seeing the final victory of the old Vanilla Bland Knuckleheads over the new, the daring and the inspired. If so, it pretty much confirms all those who said that the only thing GM has ever wanted from the Volt it has already gotten — GSB and lifesaving loans.
But I doubt it very much. Does anyone at GM imagine that they will long survive a Volt program canceled after the stated production run (10K the first year, 60K for the two following years)? They’re already being called Government Motors — and much worse.
The next few data points to emerge will be very telling.
Even if the Volt’s champions at Chevy are gone, and the powers that be have become ambivalent, GM has gone too far down the EREV road to turn back from at least it’s announced production run for Gen I. This puts things squarely back into our court, here. WE have always been the Volt’s greatest champions, and it will be up to us to show GM that the original vision nurtured by Bob Lutz is the correct one.
Still, maybe I’m all wet, and it’s all just a confluence of coincidence, and GEN II is waiting in year 3, and we’ll all be just tickled pink by on-time production and delivery, and on-target execution and quality; crowned by the runaway demand we’ve always anticipated.
But if not, we will have still helped instill this vision over a larger arena. Someone will make it happen. Electrification of the automobile is too big an idea to stop.
-1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (10:55 pm)NICELY UNDER $30,000
The ironic reality of his own words will reveal itself.
Mar 3rd, 2010 (11:00 pm)Well folks, I’m signing off early.
I have to work “outside the home” tomorrow, so please be kind to each other.
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
/micro Volt Nation meeting tomorrow with Michael (and his dear one). New Mexico/Penna delegates.
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!
Mar 3rd, 2010 (11:06 pm)Have a great night, john!
Be well and be kind,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (11:06 pm)Go perform a physical improbability, john.
+3
Mar 3rd, 2010 (11:08 pm)I can add very little to this, Bob! I truly wish you well during your golden years!!!
Mar 3rd, 2010 (11:09 pm)Sure thing, Tag; for everyone except john1701a.
Hey John, the Toyota hearings have started up again. Grab your transistor radio and go back under your rock.
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (11:11 pm)Now, now, ZT (lol). At least I managed to stop short of telling him to be weeeeely careful in that Prius of his….(g).
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (11:14 pm)Anyone want to have a constructive look at the situation?
How about this… who’s going to develop the second generation with so many of the original leaders having left the project before rollout of the first even began?
What sales will be sustaining the business?
Mar 3rd, 2010 (11:16 pm)I guess that’s a comfort… Just try to maintain your Presidential bearing.
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!
+2
Mar 3rd, 2010 (11:18 pm)“Anyone want to have a constructive look at the situation?
How about this… who’s going to develop the second generation with so many of the original leaders having left the project before rollout of the first even began?
What sales will be sustaining the business?”
These questions may fairly be asked, but not by you, here. Your motives here are far from constructive.
This was the first day that gay marriage was legal in Washington DC. Why don’t you and Caucus go up there and tie the knot?
Be sure to tie a tin can to your Prius.
/ouch
Mar 3rd, 2010 (11:21 pm)Hey! You didn’t give us enough notice! And what about directions to the venue?
-7
Mar 3rd, 2010 (11:22 pm)Why do you think Lutz stated “NICELY UNDER $30,000” as a priority?
+2
Mar 3rd, 2010 (11:23 pm)Presidential bearing be hanged! There’s a scoundrel afoot.
Mar 3rd, 2010 (11:29 pm)Sorry JohnK,
Bob insisted that we keep the party small.
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!
Mar 3rd, 2010 (11:31 pm)Good bye, John. I’m off. Bounce off the walls all you want.
Don’t anyone empower this troll with a reply unless it is accompanied by a scathing and castigating insult. John1701a is not part of the Volt family; he revels in our misfortunes, real and imagined. His first love is Prius, and for the Volt to merely exist is not merely anathema, but an insult to him.
Go step out in front of a runaway Camry, John. Please.
+1
Mar 3rd, 2010 (11:34 pm)WHOA, PEOPLE. I think I’d like to call for a friendly “reality check” here.
Many of the foregoing comments make it sound like Bob Lutz has either gone lost on a desert island, got crushed by a big ‘ol earthquake, or has somehow fallen into a terminal coma. News flash! He’s just retiring! And probably, if history is any teacher, only temporarily.
Retirement is often little more than a word anyway, to achievers like Bob. Does anybody here seriously think Bob Lutz will SUDDENLY STOP having strong opinions, doling out interesting quotes, or exerting influence in the auto industry? Or for that matter, that he’ll cease going off and having awesome adventures that would constitute kickin’ ass, even if he were a man half his age?
I SHOULD THINK NOT! There’s plenty more Bob to come in the days ahead. Mark my words. The pink tie is not hung up yet.
Go, go, Maximum Bob!! And I hope you DO have a little more time to enjoy, to go flying, or on road-trips to a nice beach somewhere. You’ve earned it.
Mar 3rd, 2010 (11:41 pm)Maximum Bob,
We wish you a long and happy retirement full of memories that make you chuckle and even bring a tear now and then. No one will be able to match your long illustrious carrier having worked for so many automotive companies on both sides of the Atlantic. We thank you for the Volt which history will show was a major turning point for GM and the whole automotive industry.
Happy trails to you ’til we meet again!
Mar 4th, 2010 (12:03 am)Hmmmm!!! Didn’t know I was famous.
Thanks Michael.
One more trail for Bob Lutz to follow: may it be a Happy Trail!
Happy trails to you ’til we meet again.
+3
Mar 4th, 2010 (12:13 am)I hope he’s right about GM’s continuing to improve it’s product line-up. I think that it’s more competitive than it’s been in years. Decades maybe. And I have to give him credit for that. It’s really cool that he always answered Lyle’s emails. And, regardless of his motives, if not for him, the Volt wouldn’t exist. And I have to give him credit for that as well.
I wish Lutz the best of luck with retirement.
Mar 4th, 2010 (12:24 am)Video of Wankel Engine:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z-MY-LwmEWI
-11
Mar 4th, 2010 (12:33 am)(click to show comment)
+1
Mar 4th, 2010 (1:01 am)Best of luck to you Bob. May you enjoy yourself in whatever you choose to do next!
Seems like Whitacre wants to move on with a younger group of executives. That makes sense in many ways. My only concern is that, from my experience, under Whitacre AT&T promoted a whole lot of white guys who were more capable on the golf course than off, a trend which produced management teams were hardly diverse and, far more importantly, less than impressive. One thing which has struck me is how diverse the GM workforce is. Hopefully that will not be changing and we won’t end up with worse management than we started with.
I’m not saying this is a pattern, but so are what we’ve seen with Whitacre is the departure of women, African Americans, and now an older execute, all seemingly replaced by middle age white guys.
+2
Mar 4th, 2010 (1:20 am)Hey Bob,
IF they don’t extend an invitation to the big launch SOMEONE else will. Thanks for seeing the big picture and competing with silicon valley. You have done a good thing. We are grateful.
BTW, how ’bout a ride in that MIG of yours?
-1
Mar 4th, 2010 (2:01 am)That’s why he is reviled. People still haven’t absorbed the magnitude of what has been perpetrated upon us in the name of
peergood-buddy reviewed science.
Mar 4th, 2010 (2:01 am)According to my educated guess, I believe, Denise Gray will be working soon for Imara Corp. (in Menlo Park, CA).
Mar 4th, 2010 (2:03 am)Have fun in retirement, Bob. Thanks for spearheading the Volt and for always contributing heartily to the communications. It’s hard to imagine them not inviting you to the launch events, so I’m sure you’ll be there. Maybe now that you’ll have all this retirement time, maybe you can be a guest contributor to this site, sometime, too.
-6
Mar 4th, 2010 (2:04 am)What Dirty Rat said – and thrice over.
If the Volt turns out to be a parallel PHEV (only part-time serial), it would be more evidence of how the oldtimers destroyed the US auto industry.
The new GM CEO has sensed this, and that’s why Lutz has been fired. Rememner Fritz? He “resigned” but was fired.
-3
Mar 4th, 2010 (2:10 am)I seriously doubt the Volt will be economically feasible. I doubt it can compete against Teslas and the pure electric Chinese cars coming likely 40% cheaper than the Volt.
+3
Mar 4th, 2010 (3:05 am)Thanks Bob,
You really gave me hope that GM was going to lead the way into the new century. Enjoy your retirement.
I am really worried about all the other members of the Volt team leaving. It reminds me of the end of the EV-1 days when people like Stemple left.
I don’t feel comfortable with the a board member of big Oil heading up GM. It is a conflict of interest. I hope something rotten is not in the works.
-2
Mar 4th, 2010 (4:30 am)GM finally doing some house cleaning or just getting rid of some dead wood. Take your pick.
Mar 4th, 2010 (4:38 am)So long Bob!
Too bad you, Fritz and the rest of the GM gang won’t be there for the VOLT launch…
Only 8 more months !!!!
Ah, but you’ll be there in spirit!
Thanks again, Bob!
GO EV !!!
+4
Mar 4th, 2010 (5:56 am)There will have to be some sort of Special Edition pink badged Volt. And you can bet it will be a quick one.
=D-Volt
Mar 4th, 2010 (7:08 am)Nomo orrigatto Mr. Roboto
-4
Mar 4th, 2010 (7:39 am)Good.
From the article: “He is credited with first envisioning and pushing GM to develop the Chevrolet Volt concept in an effort to leapfrog the Toyota Prius for green appeal and has stewarded the program all along, calling it his proudest achievement.”
He is also credited with introducing 9 models of hybrid that do not sell. And he certainly doesn’t understand the appeal of the Prius, which is modestly priced yet delivers the goods. Under his leadership, GM has lost the hybrid race to Ford. GM’s 9 models of hybrid have led them to fifth place in total hybrid sales, losing even to Nissan.
Lutz’ misunderstanding of the auto market is the reason the Volt is expected, even byGM, to “lose money for years.” Rational car companies don’t intentionally lose money.
Mar 4th, 2010 (7:49 am)Bob, may you have many more years of good health. Enjoy the things you love best. Thanks for your contributions throughout your career to the auto industries and GM.
+2
Mar 4th, 2010 (7:52 am)Mr. Lutz, I only have one thing to say:
You did good!!!!!
NPNS
+1
Mar 4th, 2010 (8:03 am)Well, just one more measure that Bob really is synonomous with the Volt. Even his retirement brings out the trolls more. Have fun guys, but history will pay proper homage to the Volt and to all the ladies and gentlemen that were part of its birth.
Go Volt. Cheers to GM, both old AND new.
LJGTVWOTR
Mar 4th, 2010 (8:08 am)And Mike and Tag, enjoy your day!
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Mar 4th, 2010 (8:18 am)Careful with the word troll. It’s beginning to represent anyone who posts something outside the status quo. That’s exactly what happened before the bankruptcy.
Mar 4th, 2010 (8:26 am)Good luck in retirement Mr. Lutz. Thanks for helping get the Volt to reality. It would be unimaginable that Mr. Lutz not be invited for the launch. That should be a no brainer.
Mar 4th, 2010 (8:38 am)Well the email somehow got lost in the clutter so I didn’t read it until too late and then … (LOL)
Anyway, it is not true because it can’t be true because I don’t want it to be
Back to optimism today.
Mar 4th, 2010 (8:39 am)hi John # 97 …
Your statement is understood. The reason for the sensitivity to harsh remarks comes from a concern for the Voltec program. Most here feel the Volt is a very important step in a positive direction. I share your pain in that I sometimes wear the “snark” label as well.
I am sure many here will be more tolerant after the 100,000th Volt is on the road.
=D-Volt
Mar 4th, 2010 (8:45 am)Thank you. As to directions, we plan to meet in Mifflinburg, PA, “formerly the largest horse-drawn buggy producing town/city in the nation.” How’s that for irony.
Mar 4th, 2010 (8:56 am)Lutz is set to retire on May 1st?
For how long?
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Mar 4th, 2010 (9:48 am)Remember what was happening at the time Volt was revealed?
That’s when GM was testing pre-production models of Two-Mode. At that point, it was already well understood internally that there was no way it could compete with the smaller hybrids, as they had originally planned.
Being competitive is very important. Diversifying Volt quickly will be absolutely essential to retain marketshare. The impression from so much resistance isn’t encouraging. Where’s the support for a lower priced model?
Mar 4th, 2010 (10:00 am)You cross the line to TROLL when we are saluting a definite champion of the car industry and your comments are unnecessary and frankly rude.
Your long term repeated over and over bla bla bla sleep with your Prius posts are tiring and boring.
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Mar 4th, 2010 (10:01 am)Bob, Thank You for your passion and your vision and yes your ability to stir controversy!
Go build yourself a cool hotrod, you deserve it!
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Mar 4th, 2010 (10:01 am)The Volt is the lower priced model. It’s a Chevy. Gen II is the even lower priced model. The Leaf may have a lower price tag but it will have very limited appeal as compared to the Volt with its extended range. The higher price tag on the Volt will definitely be worth it for many people.
Not to be a PITA but let’s ask the Q in a different way. Where is Toyota’s lower cost EV? Oh yeah, they don’t have one.
Mar 4th, 2010 (11:18 am)Interesting…Opel announces another EREV concept and GM NA announces a cancellation.
Mar 4th, 2010 (11:33 am)#48 & #50
That’s how I was raised, and have lived most of my life. Alas, when gas hits $4/gal, the game changes for most people. Auto companies who don’t realize it in time are doomed, IMHO. I mean, a lot of us here would love to be driving a Pontiac G-8, but look what happened to it. Change with the times (or preferably a little ahead of same) or die.
+1
Mar 4th, 2010 (11:39 am)I second Lyle’s message – we wish you the very very best. To which I’ll add: Yes the VOLT and many other milestone creations adding to your presence being a shining light guiding GM through this difficult time. May this be reflected as adding credibility to future resumes noting they worked with you in some way.
+1
Mar 4th, 2010 (2:46 pm)Sadly, it won’t appeal to middle-market then. Mid-30′s is out of reach, regardless of how impressive the technology is. That’s what history has taught us.
Mainstream pricing simply cannot be that high. This isn’t rocket-science, it’s basic economics.
High-Volume vehicles need to be in the mid-20′s.
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Mar 4th, 2010 (3:13 pm)Which is harder?
http://thetyee.ca/Views/2007/09/28/RocketForestry/
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Mar 4th, 2010 (4:01 pm)Best wishes to you Bob!!!
Thanks for your tireless efforts to move the Volt from concept to reality, and I hope you future endeavors bring you much happiness.
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Mar 4th, 2010 (7:33 pm)To Bob Lutz – props for your service to country, for making interesting cars, for being outspoken in a a generally helpful, informative way. Good luck with whatever you choose to do…
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Mar 4th, 2010 (7:57 pm)Lutz was/is a DINOSAUR !
They don’t make them much older than him. Anyone over 40 has no business being in the car business. Deal with it old timers. It is high time the younger smarter generation take over. You old geezer got one foot in it and you can be sure i will be there to piss on you later.
Youthful energy is sorely needed at the old general and this is only the beginning. boom.
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Mar 4th, 2010 (10:31 pm)I’ve been sending “uncle” Bob emails for years. It probably helps that we have the same last name, but he answered everyone of them. Remember his words about global warming, it being a “crock of sh-t.” He was certainly ahead of the curve on that one. He will be missed.
+1
Mar 5th, 2010 (7:47 pm)100% correct they had an all electric car called EV-1 yes it was an early design but with todays technology they would have been the top dog in the market if they continued to develop. This is a classic case of if I knew then with I know now. Remember gas was a lot cheaper 10 years ago of course no one wanted an electric car.Now the same people that were against it are crying for it sooner now. I will never ever own any GM product ever again nor will my business have any GM vehicles in our fleet. Thank you to the movie who killed the electric car for opening my company’s eyes. you just lost 20 lease/buyers we have a 20 vehicle fleet. good riddance to bad management and I see that no relief is in site.. laugh now because GM in their own greed cost them I pray they go totally bankrupt as for the workers sorry but blame your leadership for piss poor management.
Mar 6th, 2010 (11:30 am)Younger yes, but smarter ? Also lazier The currant video game high school drop out,overweight generation has a long way to go just to outdo their parents. THis will be the first generation NOT to do as well as their parents. Congrats ,at least you are first in something.
Mar 7th, 2010 (2:20 pm)Talked to a friend who was a higher up in the GM bankruptcy. Lutz was forced out Whitacre. Say what you want about Lutz, but he was a car guy through and through with a record of delivering successful vehicles and turning around car cos. Who is left in GM’s inner circle that has a clue about building successful vehicles. Add that to the fact that the CEO helped run AT&T into a crater and that the last time he managed a company, payphones were a major profit center and you come to realize that no matter what happens with the Volt, the company is doomed. Eventually will become Chicom motors.
Mar 7th, 2010 (5:49 pm)Well said dagwood.
The kool-aid drinkers here are out in force. Soon the koolaid will take effect and we will have a rational comment forum.