GM Lambda platform
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| GM Lambda platform | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | General Motors |
| Production | 2007–present |
| Predecessor | GM U platform |
| Class | Full-size crossover SUV |
| Body style(s) | 4-door SUV |
| Transmission(s) | 6-spd automatic |
| 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. The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse was unveiled in February at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show. 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 3.6-liter V6. With the cancellation of GM's next-generation DOHC V8, it appears unlikely that GM will offer a V8 engine for Lambda. 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 Lansing Delta Township Assembly plant near Lansing, Michigan.
[edit] Minivans
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 minivans.
[edit] Vehicles
Current vehicles based on this platform:
- 2007 Saturn Outlook
- 2007 GMC Acadia
- 2008 Buick Enclave
- 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
[edit] References
- GM lagging behind in booming sport wagon market. AutoWeek. Retrieved on April 12, 2005.
- GM Drops Plans for New DOHC V8 Engine in 2009. Edmunds' Inside Line. Retrieved on January 19, 2008.
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