General Motors Heritage Center Shares The Power Behind Some Thrones at Petersen Museum

DETROIT – General Motors vehicles are frequently called upon to serve in powerful roles around the world, transporting heads of state with style and security. An exhibit running through January 22,2006 at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, California entitled “Presidents, Popes and Potentates” will showcase some very special examples created by GM.

A Cadillac “Popemobile” designed by GM in Latin America for Pope John Paul II’s 1999 visit to Mexico City and a 1986 Cadillac “Presidential” limousine that served during President Reagan’s term of office have joined Governor Schwarzenegger’s and a host of other very special vehicles in an exhibit that will run until January 22, 2006.

“Great cars and the great people who create them, that is what is important to us at the GM Heritage Center,” said Scot Keller, staff director of GM Corporate Brand Communications. “Our ability to enhance the unique Exhibit that the Petersen Museum has assembled helps us all realize our goal of sharing these priceless automotive accomplishments with people who have a passion for great cars and trucks.”

Security is an important issue with vehicles such as these. As an example, in the case of this “Popemobile”, it was determined that even with thousands of security people forming a human barricade during Pope John Paul’s appearance at the Estadia Azteca, the risks were too great for the Pontiff to ride through the stadium in an open car. As a result, this magnificent creation, with its throne-like elevating seat, was never called upon to complete its mission.

Established in 2004, the General Motors Heritage Center , located in Sterling Heights , Michigan , brings together vehicles from the GM Heritage Collection, artifacts and archives that reflect and project the Corporation’s passion and excellence in its products and the pride and passion of its people. The 81,000 square-foot Heritage Center provides an inspiring environment for business meetings and special events.

General Motors Corp. , the world’s largest automaker, has been the global industry sales leader since 1931. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 321,000 people around the world. It has manufacturing operations in 32 countries and its vehicles are sold in 200 countries . In 2004, GM sold nearly 9 million cars and trucks globally, up 4 percent and the second-highest total in the company’s history. GM’s global headquarters are at the GM Renaissance Center in Detroit . More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.