Editor’s Note: Legendary auto journalist and TTAC inspiration Jerry Flint died this week. Rather than write a sappy eulogy, we’ve decided to let Jerry speak for himself. What follows is a speech Flint gave to GM employees at Milford Proving Grounds in October 2000. It’s feisty, passionate and deeply insightful… the kind of speech that made Jerry famous, and paved the way for sites like TTAC. Moreover, it shows just how deep GM’s problems run, and serves as a timeless warning against the worst impulses of the business. Rest In Peace Jerry… we will always remember you at your best. [Courtesy: The Olds Zone Hat Tip: Ken Elias]
There was an auto executive, he was a very high ranking GM man. You all know his name but I won’t mention it because it might embarrass him. He’s not at General Motors anymore.
I once asked this man what he would do if he found himself the chief executive of General Motors. He said, and I quote, “I would fire 1,000 executives.” End of quote. I’m not sure whether it made any difference to him which 1,000 executives, if he had anyone in particular in mind, or any thousand would do. I just tell you this to start things off.
Fasten your seat belts, it’s going to get bumpy.
Tagged as Industry, Inside The Big Three, Jerry Flint, Media, People
Recent Comments
genuineleather - The XJ seems to be the car that autojournos always reccomend but nobody actually buys. Those that do invariably stick a leaper on the hood, though.
bigtruckseriesreview @ Youtube - How about my stance? www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_IjFX p0zQc&feature=share&li st=PLABD89CC489E3FAF5 .308 is no joke. You should see me...
Deorew - I realize I have posted before about my 1995 Mystique V6 5 speed, but I need to say again that I have a fantastic example. Now with...
golden2husky - Mikey, when I buy my Vette convertible this fall, I’ll think of you!
golden2husky - I find an enormous amount of Prius vehicles commuting in the morning. The majority of them...
cartoon - I must say–TTAC is an almost irelevant car site.
golden2husky - If Porsche wanted to show just how efficient the car could have been in the hands of drivers,...
golden2husky - Top Gear did just that…they drove a Prius as fast as they could around a track and...
golden2husky - Derek, is the feeling of start-stop pretty much the same as in a hybrid? I pretty quickly got used to it in my car. The motor does not do a great job of...
Summicron - Na, Larry Keikkenen talkin atcha here. Dere was some fellah name like such taught school down in Manistique a while back dere. Him went out...