By Mark Kleis
Wednesday, Mar 3rd, 2010 @ 2:12 pm

GM has confirmed, GM’s vice chairman, Bob Lutz, is scheduled to retire from his adviser position as of May 1, 2010. Lutz had previously intended to retire prior to GM’s entrance in bankruptcy, but decided to put his plans on hold to help the automaker return to profitability.

Quickly following a report from unconfirmed sources, GM has publicly stated that the very public and often outspoken Bob Lutz is set to retire as of May 1, 2010. This announcement only adds credence to Leftlane’s earlier reports and speculation that the embattled vice chairman may be losing clout and on his way out.

Lutz has championed for the development and widespread use of electric vehicle technology, and particularly the Voltec drivetrain behind the Chevy Volt. In 2006, Lutz organized a team of engineers and designers that would later produce the concept car that is known as the Volt.

Most recently, Lutz was contradicted after publicly stating Cadillac would produce the Converj concept car using the Voltec powertrain, only to have another GM spokesman announce that Converj production plans have been officially shelved.

Prior to tackling environmentally friendly projects, Lutz was known as a high-performance car enthusiast – even having overseen the development of the Dodge Viper when he worked with Chrysler .

Lutz began working for GM in 2001 when he was hired by then-CEO Rick Wagoner.

Update: In addition to confirming the scheduled retirement of vice chairman Bob Lutz, GM also sent out a Tweet with a picture gallery to remind us of the many key events Lutz has played a role in while serving GM. The gesture likely shares the sentiment of many – Lutz will be missed in the industry.

References
1. ‘GM vice chairman Lutz…’ view

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