Bob Lutz, the vice chairman of global product development at General Motors, will be retiring at the end of the year. He will step back into a reduced advisory role starting in April, providing “key product initiatives” and global design insights for the company until his retirement come December 31.

According to Lutz, his greatest accomplishment was the creation of a bond between the United States and Australia as he fostered the increased role of Holden within GM. Rick Wagoner, as he announced news of Lutz’s impending retirement, described the man as “a legendary automotive product guy” even before rejoining GM’s ranks back in 2001.

“I’m looking forward to Bob’s continued contributions to GM for the remainder of 2009 – and I know the impact of his efforts leading GM global product development will continue for years to come,” Wagoner added.

Lutz is a hero for Holden and Australia, as his initiatives have helped forge global product development for GM. “The work on the GTO with Australia,” Lutz said, “forged an important bond and got us to unify everything: common processes and common testing. I am proud to say that was my initiative. That’s my proudest accomplishment.”

Source: GoAuto