DETROIT — Alan Taub, vice president of global research and development at General Motors, has been elected vice chair for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Visiting Committee on Advanced Technology.

NIST is an agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce that promotes U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology.

“NIST plays a key role in advancing technologies and standards that support the long-term competitiveness of U.S. industry,” Taub said. “NIST research and support have accelerated the development and implementation of new technology in many critical areas, including materials, manufacturing, and advanced propulsion and electronics.

“These programs have helped promote economic and jobs growth and improved the quality of life for all Americans,” said Taub. “It’s an honor to serve on the advisory board of this important and highly regarded federal agency to help ensure that its programs are focused on national needs, including those of the U.S. auto industry.”

The Visiting Committee, the agency’s primary private-sector policy advisory group, reviews and makes recommendations regarding NIST policies, programs, organization, and budget. It also prepares an annual report that is submitted to Congress. Taub’s two-year term expires on March 31, 2012.

About General Motors: General Motors, one of the world’s largest automakers, traces its roots back to 1908. With its global headquarters in Detroit, GM employs 204,000 people in every major region of the world and does business in some 140 countries. GM and its strategic partners produce cars and trucks in 34 countries, and sell and service these vehicles through the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM’s largest national market is the United States, followed by China, Brazil, Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Italy. GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. General Motors acquired operations from General Motors Corporation on July 10, 2009, and references to prior periods in this and other press materials refer to operations of the old General Motors Corporation. More information on the new General Motors can be found at www.gm.com.