Larry Burns Career at General Motors
Larry Burns served as Vice President of Research and Development and Planning at General Motors from 1999 until his retirement in 2009. He directed the company's global R&D operations, including powertrain, vehicle technologies, and strategic planning for electrification and advanced materials. During his tenure, Burns oversaw programs that laid groundwork for later GM EV models and connected vehicle initiatives Forbes.
Before joining GM, Burns was a faculty member at the University of Michigan and earned his Ph.D. in engineering mechanics from the same institution. He joined GM's research staff in 1979 and advanced through roles in vehicle design, dynamics, and manufacturing engineering. His career at GM spanned more than three decades, ending with a focus on long-range technology planning and corporate strategy GM Corporate.
Larry Burns Role in Electric and Autonomous Vehicle Development
Early EV and Hybrid Programs
Burns championed early electrification efforts at GM, including the EV1 electric vehicle program and hybrid technology studies in the late 1990s and early 2000s. He supported the use of lithium-ion battery research and lightweight materials that later informed the Chevrolet Volt and other GM electrified vehicles. His work emphasized reducing petroleum dependence and aligning GM's portfolio with potential future fuel economy and emissions regulations NYT.
Autonomous Vehicle Research
Burns also led GM's investments in autonomous driving and connected vehicle technologies, including early partnerships with Carnegie Mellon University and other research institutions. He highlighted the potential of vehicle-to-vehicle communication and sensor-based safety systems as core elements of GM's long-term R&D roadmap. These efforts contributed to later GM Cruise automation initiatives and industry collaborations on safety standards SEC Filing.
Post-Retirement Advisory and Current Influence
Board Roles and Consulting
After leaving GM in 2009, Burns served on several corporate and advisory boards, including roles related to automotive technology, mobility services, and advanced manufacturing. He has provided strategic guidance to startups and established companies working on electric powertrains, battery systems, and autonomous platforms. His advisory focus remains on translating research into scalable commercial vehicle technologies Forbes.
Continued Focus on Future Mobility
Burns continues to speak publicly about the convergence of electrification, connectivity, and shared mobility as key trends shaping the automotive industry. He emphasizes the importance of aligning corporate strategy with regulatory frameworks, infrastructure investment, and consumer adoption patterns. His current work highlights the need for sustained R&D in battery technology, software-defined vehicles, and supply chain resilience GM Corporate.