The article discusses the journey of General Motors (GM) chair and CEO Mary Barra as she leads the company in achieving ambitious EV goals. With the company’s plan to invest $35 billion in electric and autonomous vehicle development between 2020 and 2025, Barra is steering GM towards a future dominated by electric vehicles. Despite facing challenges such as range anxiety and fierce competition, GM aims to introduce multiple electric vehicles by 2024.
### Inside the leadership climb
Barra’s career at GM began in manufacturing and has since included roles in communication, marketing, and leadership. Her knowledge of GM’s business operations has helped her become a respected and credible leader within the company. Barra has navigated various challenges during her tenure as CEO, including controversies surrounding faulty ignition switches, interactions with President Trump, UAW negotiations, and autonomous vehicle incidents. Despite these obstacles, she has stayed committed to leading GM towards an electric future.
### A drive down valuation lane
Investors are keen to see the results of Barra’s initiatives reflected in GM’s stock performance. The company’s forward P/E ratio is considerably lower than the S&P 500 index and Tesla, indicating a potential undervaluation. Recent announcements of a stock buyback plan and dividend increase have boosted investor confidence in GM’s future. The company anticipates achieving profitability in EVs by 2025, signaling progress towards its electric vehicle goals.
### Conclusion
Mary Barra’s leadership at General Motors embodies a blend of respect for the company’s history and a bold vision for the future of transportation. Despite facing challenges and controversies, Barra remains focused on steering GM towards an electric future. Investor confidence in GM’s initiatives, such as the company’s focus on electric vehicles and recent financial decisions, suggests that the company may be on track to achieve its ambitious goals under Barra’s leadership. As the auto industry continues its shift towards electric vehicles, Barra’s role in leading GM through this transformative period solidifies her place in automotive history.
