General Motors is undergoing a significant leadership transition as CEO Mary Barra prepares to hand over the reins. Reports indicate that Barra is considering Sterling Anderson, a seasoned technology executive with a background at Tesla, to guide the company into its next chapter.
Anderson joined GM in June as Chief Product Officer, a move that surprised many in the automotive industry. Unlike traditional leaders who rose through decades of experience in mechanical engineering and manufacturing, Anderson comes from a software and automation background. At Tesla, he spearheaded the Model X SUV project and led the Autopilot team from 2015 to 2016. After departing Tesla, he founded Aurora, a startup focused on self-driving technology for heavy-duty trucks.
Mary Barra, now 63, has not announced a retirement date but aims to ensure a strong succession plan. She has entrusted Anderson with the comprehensive responsibility of overseeing every vehicle GM produces, spanning both gasoline-powered and electric models. This assignment acts as a rigorous evaluation of his ability to manage the complexities of a global automotive manufacturer.
One of Anderson’s primary objectives is resolving ongoing software challenges that have hampered GM’s electric vehicle launches in recent years. Barra envisions GM evolving into a technology-driven company that manufactures cars, and Anderson must demonstrate he can deliver dependable, timely new models.
A critical aspect of Anderson’s trial involves advancing GM’s self-driving capabilities. While GM’s Cruise division previously concentrated on autonomous robotaxi services, the company is shifting strategy to integrate "eyes-off" driving features into consumer electric vehicles. This technology would enable drivers to relax while the car manages highway driving. Given Anderson’s foundational role in developing Tesla’s Autopilot, Barra believes he has the expertise to bring this vision to fruition for GM customers.
The automotive industry is rapidly evolving, with consumers increasingly embracing electric vehicles. GM faces intense competition from new entrants and established tech companies. Anderson’s performance is now under close scrutiny as he strives to prove that a legacy automaker can match the innovation and agility of Silicon Valley startups and potentially assume the top leadership role at General Motors.
