Former Tesla and Google executive hired by GM to replace retiring head of manufacturing

General Motors (GM) has made a significant executive appointment, hiring former Tesla and Google executive Jens Peter “JP” Clausen to replace the retiring head of manufacturing, Gerald Johnson. This move comes as GM and other automakers aim to compete with Tesla in the production of batteries and powertrains for electric vehicles.

Gerald Johnson, who has been with GM for an impressive 44 years, is stepping down from his role as executive vice president of Global Manufacturing and Sustainability. Johnson’s retirement was expected, given his long tenure with the company. However, GM also announced another unexpected departure on Tuesday: Mike Abbott, executive vice president of software and services, who is leaving due to health reasons.

Replacing Abbott on an interim basis is Baris Cetinok, the current vice president of product in software and services. Cetinok, a former Apple executive who joined GM in September, will hold the position while a search is conducted for a permanent replacement.

The hiring of Clausen is particularly noteworthy for GM. With his experience at Tesla and Google, Clausen brings valuable expertise to the table. During his time at Tesla from 2015 to 2019, Clausen served as vice president of the company’s first battery manufacturing plant, known as the Nevada Gigafactory. He played a pivotal role in expanding the factory and finding ways to reduce waste during Tesla’s transition from a niche player to a mass-market automaker.

After leaving Tesla, Clausen joined synthetic biology company Zymergen, which was later acquired by Gingko Bioworks. He then moved on to Google, where he served as vice president of engineering for the Data Center Advanced Technology Innovation group. Clausen’s work focused on developing environmentally responsible cooling solutions for data centers and other sustainable growth initiatives.

Clausen’s appointment at GM highlights the company’s commitment to competing with Tesla in the electric vehicle market. As more consumers embrace electric vehicles, automakers are racing to develop efficient and cost-effective batteries and powertrains. Clausen’s experience at Tesla, where he played a key role in the mass production of the Model 3 sedan, will undoubtedly be valuable as GM looks to advance its electric vehicle offerings.

It’s worth noting that Clausen is not the only former Tesla executive to join GM. The company’s board members include Jon McNeill, former Tesla President of Global Sales and Service. This influx of talent from Tesla demonstrates GM’s determination to stay at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution.

Overall, GM’s hiring of Jens Peter Clausen as the new head of manufacturing is a significant move for the company. With his experience at Tesla and Google, Clausen brings valuable expertise that will help GM compete in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market. As GM continues to invest in electric vehicle technology, Clausen’s appointment signals the company’s commitment to innovation and growth in this sector.