General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner joins Ford ’s Alan Mulally in driving cars from the company motor pool to Washington, D.C., this week, rather than flying on a controversial corporate jet. All three Detroit automakers also confirmed plans to essentially wrap up use of costly corporate jets while their companies restructure – and as they request federal funding.
Earlier today, Ford announced that Mulally and a few colleagues would make the 520-mile trek in a Ford Escape hybrid. Mulally will conduct business along the way and he’ll take the wheel for at least some of the nine-hour drive.
Wagoner will take part in what has become a mini parade of GM’s efficient vehicles. He’ll share wheel time with a number of other executives as they drive a Chevrolet Malibu hybrid, a Chevrolet Cobalt XFE and an E85-capable Buick Lucerne.
Chrysler LLC CEO Robert Nardelli won’t travel by private jet, either, though the automaker declined to detail exactly how he will travel to Washington, citing security concerns.
Ford and GM also confirmed today that they will cease use of their corporate jets. Ford will sell its fleet and GM, which leases the aircraft, will seek buyers for the leases. Chrysler says it only rents private jets on an as-needed basis.
Controversy over the type of transportation used by the Detroit Three CEOs began when it was revealed the heads of GM, Ford, and Chrysler each flew on private jets to the initial hearings in November on Capitol Hill. The flights reportedly cost $20,000 apiece.
“It’s almost like seeing a guy show up at the soup kitchen in high hat and tuxedo,” said Rep. Gary Ackerman, D-New York. “couldn’t you all have downgraded to first class or jet-pooled or something to get here? It would have at least sent a message that you do get it.”
