Sources
Help build the largest human-edited directory on the web.
Submit a site - Become an editor
Wikipedia. Licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License.
Are you an expert in this subject? Join the discussion and share your knowledge at Wikipedia.org.
GM Lambda platform
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| GM Lambda platform | |
| Manufacturer: | General Motors |
|---|---|
| Production: | 2007–present |
| Predecessor: | GM U platform |
| Class: | Full-size crossover SUV |
| Body style: | 4-door SUV |
| Transmission: | 6-spd automatic |
| Similar: | Chrysler RS platform Ford D3 platform |
| Vehicles: | Saturn Outlook GMC Acadia Buick Enclave |
Lambda is General Motors' full-size crossover SUV automobile platform. The architecture debuted in 2006. The program was delayed several times because of company fears that it would take sales and profits away from the GMT truck platform.
The Buick Enclave was previewed at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, officially as a concept, making it the first Lambda vehicle to be displayed. The first Lambda vehicles on sale are the 2007 Saturn Outlook, introduced in April at the New York Auto Show, and the GMC Acadia, with the Buick Enclave following in mid-2007. Pontiac was originally scheduled to receive a Lambda model, but it was given to GMC as a reward for strong sales.
Lambda vehicles feature easily-accessible three-row seating. They are supplied with the LY7 V6, with a new V8 following later. Unlike the similar Theta crossover SUVs, the Lambdas offer lower ground clearance. The platform has been designed for front and all-wheel drive applications. The Lambda platform is very versatile in that it can be made into a very swoopy and svelte design, or a more upright, boxy shape.
Lambda vehicles are produced in the new Delta Township Assembly plant near Lansing, Michigan.
Contents |
GM was expected to replace the current GMT-201 U-body minivans with new vehicles using the Lambda platform for the 2009 model year, but due to the decline of minivan sales, GM has canceled this program. They reportedly would have looked very different from today's offerings, with one GM insider saying they were to look "like spaceships." They would have had fold-flat seats and other features not currently available on the U-body vans.
Current vehicles based on this platform:
- 2007 Saturn Outlook 8- or 7-Passenger Crossover Vehicle
- 2007 GMC Acadia 8-passenger sport wagon
Future vehicles based on this platform:
- 2008 Buick Enclave (replaces Buick Rendezvous and Buick Rainier)
- 2009 Chevrolet Lambda CUV
Cancelled vehicles based on this platform:
- 2007 Pontiac sport wagon - Pontiac got the Theta-based 2006 Torrent instead.
- SUT (Sport Utility Truck) competitor to the Honda Ridgeline
- The 2009 Chevrolet and GMC minivans are now cancelled. Like Ford, GM is leaving the minivan market to focus on the more profitable large crossovers. The styling of the Chevy crossover will be similar to that of the Chevrolet Sequel concept.
- GM lagging behind in booming sport wagon market. AutoWeek. Retrieved on April 12, 2005.
- AcadiaForum.net. acadiaforum.net. Retrieved on March 10, 2007.
Current GM platforms: