For those of you who visit the various Camaro/Firebird (and other) Enthusiast websites, there is no question that many are worried that performance is dead at GM -- regardless of what I have said either publicly or privately........ attached is a Press Release from GM concerning the "GM Performance Division."
You might note the name "John Heinricy" -- John has been involved in the Camaro since the 2nd gen car....and, in fact, was Chief Engineer for a time on the 4th gen.........
While we cannot go into specifics concerning future product plans, I believe this press release speaks volumes to the committment that we intend to bring you world-class performers in the coming months and years......
GM Performance Division: Full Speed Ahead
Integrated Team To Lead Passion to The Showroom
Warren, Mich. - General Motors has built high-performance vehicles and automotive parts through its many brands for decades. The technological advancements of Cadillac and the power and performance of the Chevy SS and Pontiac GTO brands are just a few examples.
The newly formed GM Performance Division will develop and build performance variants of cars and trucks for the Cadillac, Chevrolet, and Pontiac brands.
"For the first time, all of the expertise will be harnessed within one passionate group," said Mark Reuss, GM Performance Division's executive director. "GM Performance Division is made up of a group of enthusiasts dedicated to delivering must-have vehicles."
The entire team is based at the GM Technical enter in Warren, Mich., and is staffed with 1,000 engineers, designers and technicians.
"Our mission is to bring back the GM nameplates around great performance and design," said Reuss, who also oversees vehicle architecture engineering for GM. The architecture group works across the GM Product Development organization concentrating on portfolio integration in the areas of packaging, assembly, engineering and manufacturing.
The GM Performance Division includes second-stage and one-off production vehicles, concept vehicles, parts and accessories for automotive enthusiasts, and high-performance models sold through GM dealers. The organization also strengthens the links between GM Powertrain, GM
Engineering and GM Service Parts Operation and creates a training ground where young engineers can learn from and work side-by-side with GM's experienced, performance experts.
The GM Performance Division is led by an experienced team of enthusiasts, including John Wiley, director of second stage and specialty vehicles; John Heinicy, director of high-performance vehicle operations; Mike Liedtke, director of engineering for concepts and show vehicles; and Kip Wasenko, director of design.
The Vehicle Architecture group receives direction from an experienced core unit of individuals, including Gary Edwards, director of the vehicle architecture center, Lee Visci, director of vehicle architecture body-frame integral, Steve Ballentine, director of vehicle architecture body-on-frame, Richard Dichtel, director of vehicle architecture design; and Mark Farmer, director of vehicle architecture competitiveness.
"The total team is made up of people who live and breathe cars and trucks," Reuss said. "They have proven track records working in the vehicle development organization, and are well respected both inside and outside of GM.
"We have people who are passionate about building cars and trucks. I believe GM Performance provides a halo effect for each of our brands and for the entire corporation."
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I am glad that GM is going to focus on having the Preformance Division.Let the muscle cars live on! Posts: 5682 | From: Dearborn,Mi. | Registered: Feb 2002
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