How should organizations balance pressures to decrease short-term costs at the expense of long-term profitability? How “long” is the long-term? What is the cost of innovation? These are the questions that CEO Mary Barra must face when leading General Motors (GM) into the 21st century. GM became the world’s first mass-produced electric vehicle retailer when it released the “EV1” in 1996. However, GM canceled the program in 2002, citing high costs, a limited market for electric vehicles, and the lack of technology available to make high-performance vehicles. The emergence of Tesla Motors in 2006 and its exponential growth in the electric vehicle market has proven otherwise. Ironically, Tesla Motors began with the same technology that GM already had access to with only a fraction of GM’s resources. The rapid rise of Tesla Motors in the electric vehicle market and the subsequent bankruptcy of GM suggest that GM made the wrong decision to abort its electric vehicle program in 2002. However, it is unclear how GM should proceed. In 2015, the company will launch its first all electric vehicle since the EV1, the Chevrolet Spark. To what extent should GM enter the electric vehicle sector? Tesla Motors is already scheduled to release a more affordable car in the next two years and has been proving its autonomous driving technology. Other automobile manufacturers have also released all-electric vehicles, including BMW, Nissan, Ford and Toyota. Hydrogen fuel cell technology is also on the rise and may be a promising alternative to electric vehicles. Lastly, the Asian markets are leading the demand for automobiles. Place yourself in the shoes of Mary Barra. What should GM’s strategy be in order to regain its stature as the world’s leading automobile manufacturer?
David Michels, CFO at Kinder Morgan, a US energy infrastructure company, explores how rapid AI and data center growth have quickly reshaped energy demand
Corporate DE&I is not simply a question of fairness. Implemented successfully, it pays off for both the company and society in general. Here’s how it’s done. Corporate DE&I is not simply a question of fairness. Implemented successfully, it pays of...
At Davos' SDG Tent, panelists urged a shift from financial metrics to valuing natural, social, and human capital for sustainable prosperity. Julia Binder
Explore how perceptions of leadership evolved. Anand Narasimhan delves into archetypes, offering insights to shape your responsible leadership approach.
Unlock the full potential of talent and innovation by ensuring equal opportunity and representation across race, gender, and background. Explore the Theory of Equality.
It is critically important that leaders manage their emotions. How, for example, do you respond to negative feedback from a client? The following should help you respond more effectively to the ups and downs of business. It is critically important...
Navigate Trump's policy shifts with a clear framework to assess business risks, plan contingencies, and stay ahead in uncertain times. Prepare for what’s next.
Envisioning future outcomes can deliver insights on how to tackle antibiotic resistance and other major global problems
Companies that excel in both digital and sustainable transformation attract a stock market premium – but how do you tap into that value? Here’s a five-step guide to outperforming your competitors.
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications