General Motors: A Century of Innovation and Transformation From its origins as the Durant-Dort Carriage Company, General Motors rapidly ascended to become a global automotive behemoth. William C. Durant’s acquisitive strategy, fueled by acquisitions of Buick, Oldsmobile, and Cadillac, established GM in 1908. However, aggressive expansion led to Durant’s removal in 1910. Re-emerging through Chevrolet, Durant regained control in 1917, before Alfred P. Sloan’s leadership established annual model changes and a tiered pricing strategy that defined the industry. GM’s technological contributions were significant, from the electric starter to tetraethyl lead (later recognized as harmful) and chlorofluorocarbons (subsequently banned). The company expanded globally, acquiring Vauxhall, Opel, and establishing General Motors of Canada. Diversification efforts included Frigidaire and Electronic Data Systems (EDS). World War II saw GM shifting to armaments production, while post-war expansion continued with brands like Pontiac and the introduction of innovative technologies like the Hydramatic transmission. The latter half of the 20th century witnessed further diversification, including forays into aerospace (Hughes Aircraft), and the introduction of the first fuel cell vehicle. However, the company also faced challenges, including the 1970s energy crisis and the subsequent struggles with diesel engines. The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw significant restructuring, including the sale of various brands and the bankruptcy filing in 2009 followed by a government bailout and reorganization. The company’s commitment to electric vehicles is evident in the EV1 and subsequent models like the Chevrolet Bolt EV, alongside ongoing investments in battery technology and autonomous driving through Cruise. Recent years have seen a renewed focus on electric vehicles and a strategic shift towards key markets.