GM DESIGN CHIEF HONOURED

GM SAYS: Edward T. “Ed” Welburn, GM's Vice President of Global Design, received the Distinguished Service Citation from the Automotive Hall of Fame, on the 25^th January, at the National Automobile Dealers Association meeting in New Orleans. With this prestigious Distinguished Service Citation, the Automotive Hall of Fame recognises an individual's significant contribution to the auto industry.

"I am honoured to be receiving this award for doing a job that I enjoy so much,” said Welburn. “I am proud to lead such a creative team that continues designing award-winning cars and pick-trucks that our customers love.”

Welburn was appointed GM vice president, global design, on 1 March 2005. He had been vice president of design, GM North America, since 1 October 2003, when he became only the sixth design leader in GM history. As vice president of global design, Welburn is responsible for interior and exterior design development of all General Motors cars and trucks. He heads a team of over 1 400 men and women operating in 11 design centres in eight countries around the world. Just three of these are in the US (and unfortunately none are in South Africa, although we’ve previously suggested to Mr Welburn himself that GM consider one in Johannesburg or Cape Town - Ed.)

Also under Welburn's leadership, GM designed and developed the revolutionary Chevrolet Volt, the world's first extended-range electric vehicle whose advanced technology and aerodynamic design enable it to drive up to 40 miles (64km) without using a drop of petrol or producing emissions. The Chevrolet Volt was awarded the North American Specialty Concept Vehicle of the Year 2007 and the Most Significant Concept Vehicle of the Year at the Automotive Hall of Fame, 2007 MY. In addition, the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid won the 2008 Green Car of the Year award.