Following recent changes to key high-level positions within General Motors’ marketing division, the automaker is now reportedly reconsidering the future of performance models for its small car lineup.
As GM went into its bankruptcy restructuring in 2009 the automaker was forced to makes cuts due to the dire financial circumstances. As a result, the development of performance models in the small car segments was put on hold – dashing hopes of a true performance-minded version of the upcoming Aveo after an RS variant was shown at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.
Recently, there was also news that the Cruze SS would not be coming to the U.S. in a high-performance package as many fans had hoped. But now, according to Automotive News, the folks at Chevrolet are rethinking their commitment to high-performance within the small car arena.
“We have a tremendous opportunity in the small and compact car market,” said Jim Campbell, who as of last week is the vice president of GM’s performance vehicles and motorsports – a new position. This move came after GM’s marketing chief, Joel Ewanick, managed to bring Chris Press from Hyundai to head Chevrolet’s marketing efforts.
GM confirms they are reconsidering performance in their small cars
“Small cars and compact cars are going to be more and more important going forward, and we’re looking at efficient performance,” said Campbell, who, as AutoNews reminds us, has experience working with GM’s NASCAR, American Le Mans Series and Grand-Am Road Racing teams. “We will work with those teams to provide performance variants.”
Campbell went on to explain that although the new push for performance-minded products will be company (GM) wide, the main focus will be placed on Cadillac and Chevrolet.
References
1.”GM revives performance…’ view
