As the site GM-Volt.com refers to him as the father of the Chevy Volt, Bob Lutz has surprising decided to stay on with the new GM and help guide them through these trying times.

The announcement came yesterday as GM CEO Fritz Henderson held a press conference releasing some details about the future for the company.  The press conference was aimed at providing information about the new GM and what we can look forward to in the coming months.

Prior to the conference, the Detroit Free Press garnered some inside information regarding the future of the famed automotive executive, Bob Lutz.  Previously, Lutz was set to retire at the end of this year.  The Chevy Volt, a creation credited to Lutz, would be released to the public with Lutz no longer a part of the company.  But at age 77, Lutz has decided to stay on board and at least see the Volt hit the market.

There is no word yet as to what Lutz's role will be with the company and also no announcement regarding how long he will stay on.  But for now, his planned retirement party at the end of 2009 will have to be postponed.  According to GM, he will have a clearly defined role within the company.  The site GM-Volt.com reports that Lutz will oversee marketing, product design and communication.

Whatever his role will be, Lutz will be around to see the success of his most recent endeavor the Chevy Volt.  Lutz, considered by many to be a relic of the industry is still seen by others as one of the greatest automotive minds of our time.  Seeing Lutz stand behind GM in these tough times further strengthens his legacy.

Welcome back Mr. Lutz. 

Source:  GM-Volt.com,  Detroit Free Press Print Edition