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In our reality check, this week GM CEO Mary Barra announced the delivery of an independent report about what’s become known as the Cobalt Ignition Switch Scandal.
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This stems from an faulty ignition switch which could be bumped or brushed, unwittingly changing it to the off position. This is believed to have caused a number of injuries and even deaths when a lapse in power steering and power brakes led to accidents where airbags failed to function.
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The issue and the delayed recall action to solve it has caused widespread lawsuits and PR problems for the company. An issue that Barra addressed in a town hall meeting.
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The company sponsored report of course found no smoking gun or conspiracy to cover up the defect, as you might expect.
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15 GM employees did get let go, 5 were schooled, and a compensation fund has been created to address the aggrieved families of the injured or dead.
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I admire Barra’s stand up and take action stance here in making a show to employees and the rest of us GM is serious about the issue. Something tells me however, there will be more raking of the coals over this one. Stay tuned.
