General Motors (GM) has tapped Kent Helfrich as the new head of its venture arm. He will replace company veteran Matt Tsien on August 1, however, Tsien will officially retire at the begining of November after 45 years with the US automotive titan.
Helfrich has a lengthy background in electrical engineering and currently serves as GM’s Executive Director of Advanced Technology and Partnerships. In this role, he has led the GM team responsible for Global Electrification and Battery Systems.
His new position as VP of Global Research and Development, Chief Technology Officer, and President of GM Ventures. This leadership role places him in charge of GM’s venture arm that invests in automotive-related start-ups that are creating solutions that can be leveraged in GM’s vehicles, manufacturing facilities, and operating businesses.
“As we pursue our vision for a world with zero crashes, zero emissions and zero congestion, R&D and investments in new technologies that support that vision are more important than ever,” GM President Mark Reuss said in a press release. “With Kent’s background and experience, he is uniquely positioned to help bring innovation and technology solutions into our vehicles, manufacturing facilities and operations.”
GM Ventures currently funds 24 startups, including 12 undisclosed investments, that are seeking to innovate everything from on-demand vehicle fueling, wash, and maintenance services to blockchain and cryptographic security technology for identity and credit.
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