Holden creates new environment role

GM HOLDEN has named Richard Marshall as its newly-created energy and environment director, effective January 12, 2009.

A Holden veteran of 20 years who is currently serving as innovation engineering director, Mr Marshall will become responsible for “leading development and driving the implementation of GM Holden’s energy diversity strategy” across Holden and affiliated brands including Saab and Cadillac.

He will report directly to GM Holden chairman and managing director Mark Reuss.

“The role will be an important internal and external interface within Holden locally, other areas of GM regionally and globally and external stakeholders such as peak bodies, government departments and universities,” the company said in a statement this week. A spokesperson told GoAuto that Mr Marshall’s focus would be solely on energy and environment rather than the broader scope of Holden Innovation, which, in addition to alternative powertrain systems, is developing a range of future products and technologies in areas such as safety and communications technology.

“Holden Innovation projects are continuing,” the spokesperson said. “Executive director (engineering) Greg Tyus now assumes responsibility for those projects as part of the broader engineering function.” Making the announcement just 10 days after confirming that Holden would build E85 ethanol-compatible cars, and that the forthcoming Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid car would be sold as a Holden in Australia, Mr Reuss said Mr Marshall’s new role was “reflective of the company’s commitment in the energy and environment area”. “GM Holden is working on more alternative technologies and alternative fuels than any other time in its history, to produce a range of vehicles that are practical, affordable and reduce our carbon footprint," Mr Reuss said.

“I welcome Richard to this critically important role. His leadership, passion and expertise will help GM Holden expand its EcoLine range of vehicles, as well as the infrastructure needed to support them.”