Ed Peper, General Motors, North America vice president of Chevrolet, talked to me about Tuesday’s (the 17th) report of viability that will be submitted to Congress by General Motors.
What does Peper think of Rick Wagoner calling GM “a company in crisis”? GM and Chrysler are looking for a federal rescue loan to stay afloat. GM has cut U.S. salaried workers pay by as much as ten percent and has said it will reduce salaried employees worldwide.
I asked all the executives the same questions:
1. Are we looking at a fundamental downsizing of the industry?
2. What is the one thing that will capture the imagination and wallet of tomorrows buyer?
3. The car used to be a symbol of freedom and status. Has the car become a burden around the consumers neck?
