General Motors made it clear before its first annual Global Business Conference it would not entertain any questions about a much-anticipated initial public offering. And since there were only financial analysts in attendance -- journalists were in "listen only" mode for the webcast -- nobody violated the restriction. We did learn a few things, including the enthusiasm some of the new execs have for the vastly changed corporate culture at the company, and a rundown of some future product.


"I saw a company that was overly complicated, that over-analyzed," Chairman and CEO Ed Whitacre said of the culture when he joined. He also saw a company with global scope, scale and capacity, one that deserved to survive.

North America President Mark Reuss said GM's incentive spending is down $1,200 per vehicle since June 2009, and its inventory has been cut in half, to about 400,000. Market share is about 20 percent in the U.S., with four core brands instead of eight.

Steve Girsky, vice chairman, corporate strategy and business development, who also worked for GM in 2005-06, said the automaker has cut unnecessary reports and meetings. GM International Operations "used to do 90 different reports a month. Now they do three."

Before Girsky's presentation, Tom Stephens, vice chairman, global product operations, gave a rundown of upcoming product. Financial analysts at the GM Tech Center got to see pictures of the new models. Cameras were not allowed.

Here are highlights of Stephens' rundown (he gave a brief description of the new Chevy Aveo, for example, that I need not repeat), not in order (he began with Opel/Vauxhall):

Chevrolet Malibu: We've described this car before, and it is on a fast-track for release before summer '11, instead of fall '11 as originally planned. Stephens described it as having "flair and energy."

Chevrolet global compact van: Probably the Orlando, which has been scratched for the U.S., but will be sold in Canada and nearly everywhere else.

Traverse: The 2014 model will have a "Camaro-inspired front end," whatever that means, and more chrome accents.

Impala: "This is what an Impala should look like," Stephens said. Interior will have a "wide-open layout for maximum comfort."

Buick Enclave: The next generation, which should be a '13 model, will be "more sophisticated," with more crisp lines.

Buick GL8: The Chinese-market three-row "business" van gets an update, too.

"Baby Enclave": Buick's premium small car is still planned as a crossover.

Next LaCrosse: Design will be a closer collaboration between North American and Chinese design teams.

Buick compact: Based on the Opel Astra, it will feature "ice blue" halo headlamps.

GMC Granite: Stephens showed analysts the concept, which we believe will eventually reach production and will likely be built on a shortened Chevy Orlando floorpan.

Acadia: Also has a major facelift in the works.

Sierra: The next-generation model will feature a "bold new face" and upgraded interior featuring innovative infotainment options.

Cadillac: Stephens showed the XTS, but not the ATS rear-drive sub-CTS. He said the next-generation CTS, due for 2013, will have "compelling design with amazing proportions and richly detailed highlights."

Opel Astra GTC: The new model will have a very low roofline, wide track and will highlight Opel's new design language.

Insignia: It's in for a new front end with a wider grille, lowered graphics and enhanced sport and premium look.

Zafira: The next version of the seven-passenger MPV has the "sleekness of a bullet train," and a flexible center console, Stephens said.

Holden: Stephens mentioned only a facelift for the Commodore, and the next version of its compact, which is essentially a rebadged Vauxhall Astra.

Traverse: The 2014 model will have a "Camaro-inspired front end," whatever that means, and more chrome accents.