At a Detroit Economic Club function, Mary Barra, the CEO of General Motors (GM.N), reaffirmed her firm support for the company's autonomous car programs. Despite the industry's regulatory obstacles and public criticism, her comments highlight General Motors continued dedication to the development of self-driving technology.
Barra's support for businesses in the autonomous driving space, who are pushing for the use of feature-rich cars that offer increased safety over human-driven cars, comes at a crucial time. But getting public acceptance has not been easy, especially in light of high-profile incidents using driverless vehicles that have prompted further regulatory scrutiny.
Addressing the competitive landscape, Barra highlighted the necessity for GM to excel in the global market by leveraging its strong brand. "We have to compete and win based on strong brands," she stated. She also emphasized the importance of fair competition, noting, "Governments around the world are looking to make sure there's a level playing field."
The dynamic nature of the automotive industry and the challenges it presents were also focal points in Barra's address. Reflecting on the intense competition and rapid technological advancements, she remarked, "There's a lot that keeps you up at night. It's just such a dynamic time. You've got to constantly be a little paranoid." This comment illustrates the perpetual vigilance required to stay ahead in the ever-evolving automotive landscape.
When asked about her tenure as CEO, Barra deflected the question to GM's board of directors, expressing her enthusiasm for her role and the company's transformation. "That's a question for the board, not for me. I'm having a lot of fun and I want to make sure we have our transformation on a good path. I don't think I'm headed anywhere soon," she said, indicating her continued commitment to steering GM through its strategic evolution.
She also commented on Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, and his impact on the Tesla brand. While acknowledging the differences between Tesla and GM, she expressed respect for Musk's approach. "I have respect for him. This is a kind of a different playbook for entrepreneurs or innovators, I would say, from a company that's been around for 100 years," Barra noted. She emphasized GM's adherence to its core values, adding, "At General Motors, we have to really think through and we try to talk about issues that are consistent with our company values."
General Motors, under Barra's leadership, continues to prioritize innovation in autonomous driving technology, aiming to position itself as a leader in the future of transportation. As the industry navigates the complexities of regulatory compliance and market competition, Barra's steadfast vision for GM's transformation remains a guiding force. Her comments at the Detroit Economic Club highlight her dedication to advancing GM's technological capabilities while maintaining a focus on ethical considerations and brand integrity. As the automotive giant moves forward, it does so with a clear commitment to safety, innovation, and competitive excellence.