Big Payday
Like many automakers in 2025, General Motors had a challenging year, especially around its powertrain strategy, as it pulled back its EV manufacturing ambitions while also announcing a $4 billion U.S. manufacturing investment to expand production of both gas and electric vehicles. Despite the uncertainty, GM led U.S. auto sales with 2.85 million vehicles sold, up six percent, while company CEO Mary Barra reportedly realized $48.2 million in compensation.
That figure is based on this year’s Automotive News/Equilar CEO Compensation Study. It is a 61.7% increase from 2024, reflecting the “actual value that the executives are getting” as they exercise stock options and collect other equity awards – explaining why it is different from the $29.9 million reported to the Securities and Exchange Commission. The $48.2 million figure ranked third on the list of highest-paid CEOs of 57 U.S.-based companies “in and around” the auto industry, behind Nvidia’s Jen-Hsun Huang and Flex’s Revathi Advaithi.
A Spot on the Podium
Huang topped the list with realized compensation of $152.9 million, followed by Advaithi at $48.8 million. Both Nvidia and Flex supply automakers with electronics and technology, though Nvidia is better known for the computing and AI technology that powers modern driver-assistance systems for brands like GM and Toyota.
Meanwhile, CEOs of traditional automakers were much lower on the list, including Ford CEO Jim Farley at $16.7 million, down 39%, and Rivian’s RJ Scaringe at $12.4 million, down 11%. Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa was not included because the company – despite owning Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram – is based outside the U.S.
Under Equilar’s methodology, Barra’s total compensation over the past five years is $201 million, more than double Farley’s $86.6 million.
Onto the Next
For 2026, GM continues to face uncertainties, particularly with its EV strategy. The company has announced multiple rounds of temporary layoffs at its Factory Zero EV plant. One of its four core U.S. brands, Cadillac, was once set to go all-electric by 2030, only to walk back that plan, with next-generation, gas-powered versions of the CT5, XT5, and XT6 now in the pipeline.
Perhaps GM’s next big test is the launch of the next-gen Chevrolet Silverado. The nameplate is one of the best-selling models in the U.S., so its performance could play an important role in maintaining the company’s momentum. The 6.2-liter L87 V8, which has been at the center of recalls and lawsuits, is being replaced by a new 6.6-liter Gen 6 L78 V8. Chevrolet says the new truck will be available later this year.
Chevrolet
