GM Lambda platform

Infobox Automobile platform
name = GM Lambda platform


aka =
manufacturer = General Motors
predecessor = GM U platform
successor =
production = 2007–present
class = Full-size crossover SUV
similar = Chrysler RS platform
Ford D3 platform
body_style = 4-door SUV
engine =
transmission = 6-spd automatic
front_suspension =
rear_suspension =
wheelbase =
related =
vehicles = Saturn Outlook
GMC Acadia
Buick Enclave
Chevrolet Traverse
layout = FF layout/All wheel drive

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. It is confirmed that Cadillac will receive a Lambda vehicle in 2012, which could possibly replace the current GMT900-based Escalade. [cite web|title=Confirmed: Cadillac to get Lambda CUV in 2012 — potential Escalade replacement!|url=http://www.leftlanenews.com/confirmed-cadillac-to-get-lambda-cuv-in-2012-potential-escalade-replacement.html|accessmonthday=June 26| accessyear=2008] 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. The Traverse will be produced starting September 2, 2008 at the retooled Spring Hill Assembly Plant in Tennessee.

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.

Vehicles

Current vehicles based on this platform:
* 2007 Saturn Outlook
* 2007 GMC Acadia
* 2008 Buick Enclave
* 2009 Chevrolet Traverse

References

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