UPDATE | Barra discusses ignition switch problem

Barra said redesigned ignition switches, produced in 2006, appeared not to meet company specifications.

While GM accepts parts that don’t meet company specifications, parts that fail to meet performance, safety, functionality and durability standards should always be rejected, Barra said.

When pressed on the issue, she said it was “inconceivable” that company officials were not aware of the issue at the time. An investigation would determine why the decision was made to move forward with production.

GM’s investigation, headed by former U.S. Attorney Anton Valukas, would also determine why the connection was not made sooner between the ignition switch and air bag failure.