GM - General Automotive

GM is the largest automobile maker in the U.S. and for a time was the largest company in the world. It is responsible for the manufacturing of a large number of famous brands including Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Hummer, Pontiac, and Saturn. Beyond the American brand names, GM also holds a controlling stake in GM Daewoo of South Korea as well as European namesakes such as Saab and Opel. GM currently employs over 250,000 people and has a presence in over 35 countries.

GM was originally founded in 1908 in Flint, Michigan. The Postwar period saw massive growth under its multiple brands. Some of the most profitable times came during the SUV craze when customers eagerly sought large sports utility vehicles during the era of cheap gasoline. However the increasing instability in fuel prices and the decline in SUV sales, in concert with the economic crisis of 2008 have resulted in massive losses for GM. The company has also been subject to massive criticism over its management practices and shoddy quality over the years. GM is currently undergoing a large restructuring and is also requesting aid from the Federal Government. However the future is far from certain and many anticipate some form of bankruptcy for the once mighty giant.