Rapid Response: GM's Mary Barra: "Going ventilator fast"

Digital Shift

The pandemic has accelerated the shift to digital sales in the automotive industry. Mary Barra explains how GM's dealerships quickly adapted by enhancing their online sales processes through tools like Shop Click Drive, which allowed for contactless transactions and clean delivery processes 1. This shift is not just a temporary measure but a strategic move to meet consumer demands for convenience and flexibility. "Meeting the customer where they want to be is what we're going to strive to do," Mary emphasizes, highlighting the importance of adapting to consumer preferences 1.

   

Innovation Focus

GM is not only focusing on digital sales but also accelerating its investment in electric and autonomous vehicles. Mary shares that despite the financial pressures, GM did not cut back on these future-focused areas; instead, they sought to leverage the situation to advance these programs 2. The company is reallocating resources to prioritize high-demand models and innovations that align with their strategic vision. "I've already heard people in the company say we want to go ventilator fast, and I love that," Mary notes, reflecting the urgency and commitment to rapid innovation 3.