GM kills Saturn after Penske ends deal

GM kills Saturn after Penske ends deal - Sep. 30, 2009

Looks like the Vue hybrid is over.

Bob Wilson

 

Three of us had a chance to drive a Saturn VUE, two-mode back in January. A GM product engineer brought one over to the Cobo Center and three of us hopped in drove over to an island and everyone drove laps. Given how few two-mode hybrids GM sells, this was probably my one and only time to ride and drive one.

There was at least 4-5 inches of snow and the road was still packed, no pavement. So we each drove the ~4-5 mile loop, pretty much in hybrid mode the whole time. My impression was a fine Ford Escape and because of the snow, not really a time to exercise the 200+ hp gas engine.

I'd spoken with my GM friend at supper and he told me that 'management' directed the word "HYBRID" be on the doors. This was when some folks were going on late-night TV programs and still claiming that hybrids are a 'statement' or a 'life-style.' He was appalled as was I. All I could share was my experience with General Electric, a large company that worked hard to put themselves out of business. The signature was a company that alienated their most productive workers at all levels and pursued 'day dream' projects. I'd shared that it is almost a mental illness that infects management and when it is recognized, it is time to look for the exit.

So since January, the Saturn VUE two-mode project was killed and now the Saturn division is going to the dust-bin of history. The chief GM engineer of hybrids and electric cars has stepped out of the reach of GM management ... and Lutz is back.

Bob Wilson

ps. I'd sent a PM to my friend and suggested other towns that are friendly to engineers.