GM mismanagement

The decision by GM to close several U.S. plants and to discontinue the production of some models is obviously a cruel blow to the loyal GM workers and the communities where the plants are located. I deeply regret their losses. The Post-Gazette’s editorial was so on point (Nov. 28, “GM’s Perfidy”).

I would like to focus on one aspect of GM CEO Mary Barra’s decisions, however. As an owner or lessee of 18 GM vehicles over the past 16 years and a onetime stockholder of “old GM,” I speak with some knowledge and tremendous interest.

My last vehicle was a 2015 Chevy Impala. I never had a finer car. If the Germans produce anything better for a comparable price, I would be surprised. Nonetheless, the Impala is one of the cars on the chopping block.

Consider, however, that GM has done almost no advertising in print or on TV for the Impala for years. It has offered paltry financial incentives on the vehicle. The exterior design has remained unchanged during the six-year run of the current generation. The color selection is limited to red and various shades of black, white and gray. GM did make minor changes to the interior, but one was to eliminate the CD player, a feature prized by old geezers like me.

Given this history, GM now tells us it must get rid of the Impala because (surprise, surprise) the thing doesn’t sell well. Can anyone be surprised at the sales results due to GM’s abysmal neglect and marketing mismanagement?

DAVID L. SHEPLEY

Peters