GM's new president for North America gives details on the next steps in the region

Mark Reuss, who was recently appointed president of General Motors North America by the company’s Board of Directors, held a webcam conversation with internet users yesterday to offer some insights into the future of the American group. Although some users tried to get specific information out of him, Reuss focused on a few particular topics.

The conversation began with the possibilities of new GM products based on rear-wheel-drive platforms. Reuss has a particular interest in increasing its presence in North America once again, but he said this would only happen if the models using them achieved high efficiency and reduced weight.

The long-awaited revival of the Camaro Z28 also came up in the conversation, which Reuss admitted was among his favourites. This may improve its chances of reaching production, since it seems to be the only step still missing, given rumours that it is among GM’s plans. However, until there is an official announcement, it cannot yet be expected to happen.

Another of the models featured in the conversation was the Cruze, the star of the Chevrolet stand at the Los Angeles Motor Show that recently closed. Reuss confirmed that, in addition to the turbocharged 1.4 engine, the North American market will receive a four-cylinder 1.8 and a diesel equivalent.

On another note, Mark Reuss hinted that GM intends to bring the 3.0 V6 direct-injection engine debuted by the Zeta platform with Holden in Australia to North American models. In principle, the product sharing that platform in the American market is the Camaro, so this would refer to an entry-level version of the range below the V8s, but it could also be used in future products.

Finally, Reuss explained that his new post will involve tasks such as improving relations with dealers, seeking new offers for certain products, ensuring the overall quality of all of them, and finding more ways to attract new customers.

Via | Motor Authority