GM Zeta platform

Infobox Automobile platform
name = GM Zeta platform


aka = Global RWD Architecture
manufacturer = General Motors
predecessor = GM W platform
GM V platform (RWD)
successor =
production = 2006–present
class = Mid-size
Full-size
similar = Chrysler LX platform
Ford Panther platform
body_style = 2-door coupe
2-door convertible
4-door sedan
5-door Station wagon
engine =
transmission =
front_suspension =
rear_suspension =
wheelbase =
related =
vehicles =

Zeta was the original name for General Motors' full-size rear-wheel drive automobile platform. The architecture was engineered by Holden of Australia and was most recently referred to as the "Global RWD Architecture". The GM Zeta was to have replaced the V-body and the W-body after 2010. As of 3rd September 2008 all future model work on the Zeta program has been abandoned, that is, work on it at GM Holden has ceased and it has not been transferred elsewhere. [http://www.mellor.net/mellor/mellorweb.nsf/weben/Back%20Issues 5]

Development

Development was started in late 1999 by Holden of Australia in order to replace the aging V-body platform underpinning their Commodore VT-VZ platform after sister division Opel announced that the Opel Omega (on which the Commodore was based) would be discontinued. Principal development on the VE Commodore was completed by July 2004 at a cost of approaching AU$ 1,000,000,000 and the first testing mules underwent trials later that year. General Motors global corporate headquarters took notice of the VE design and began studies on the utilization of the underlying architecture (internally christened Zeta by GM engineers) for a range of future products on a global scale. The idea of Zeta as a global platform was officially revived when GM announced the future Camaro would use the Zeta platform.

Features

The Zeta architecture is very flexible and can accommodate a wide variety of automotive design features such as wheelbase length, ride height, windshield rake and roof line. Zeta's suspension system is all wheel independent and utilizes a MacPherson strut coupled with a dual ball joint lower A-arm for the front and a four link independent setup for the rear wheels. The engine is mounted slightly behind the front axle giving improved weight distribution.

Vehicles

Current vehicles using this platform:
* 2006 Holden VE Commodore / 2006 HSV E Series / 2007 Vauxhall VXR8 / 2007 Chevrolet Lumina / 2008 Pontiac G8
* 2006 Holden WM Statesman/Caprice / 2007 Chevrolet Caprice / 2008 Daewoo L4X / 2007 Buick Park Avenue
* 2007 Holden Ute
* 2010 Chevrolet Camaro

References

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