GM's top electric car exec quits

[Bozita]

Source: Detroit News

Wednesday, September 30, 2009
GM's top electric car exec quits
Key in work on Volt, battery technology, Kruse leaves to start own consulting firm
Robert Snell / The Detroit News


Bob Kruse, who recently led a critical Chevrolet Volt team and devised the automaker's long-term electric vehicle strategy, has resigned months before the vehicle's debut, The Detroit News has learned.

Kruse's resignation, effective today, comes at a crucial time for General Motors Co., which is banking on the Volt to change public perceptions of the company and also help meet stringent new fuel rules.

Kruse, 50, executive director of global vehicle engineering for hybrids, electric vehicles and batteries since early 2008, left to start his own consulting company, E V Consulting LLC. He will provide automotive and vehicle electrification expertise for companies looking to seize a piece of more than $1.3 billion in federal grants available to Detroit's Big Three automakers and the state.

"My departure from General Motors has nothing to do with my view of the future success for the Volt," Kruse said on Tuesday. "I've left on very good terms. I have a lot of respect for the leadership of General Motors."

Read more: http://www.detnews.com/article/20090930/AUTO01/909300326/1148/GM-s-top-electric-car-exec-quits