GM Lambda platform

GM Lambda platform

Manufacturer	General Motors
Production	2006–present
Predecessor	GM U platform
Class	Full-size crossover SUV
Layout	FF layout/All wheel drive
Body style(s)	4-door SUV
Transmission(s)	6-spd automatic
Vehicles	Saturn Outlook GMC Acadia Buick Enclave Chevrolet Traverse

Lambda is General Motors' full-size crossover SUV automobile platform. It is largely derived from the GM Epsilon platform, which underlies the Chevrolet Malibu sedan and similar models.

The Buick Enclave concept car was previewed at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, and the Saturn Outlook was shown at the 2006 New York Auto Show. The 2007 Outlook and GMC Acadia went into production in late 2006, followed by the 2008 Enclave in mid-2007, and the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse in mid-2008.

Lambda vehicles feature easily accessible three-row seating. They were supplied with the LY7 3.6-liter V6. Starting with the 2009 model year all Lambda vehicles have GM LLT 3.6-liter gasoline direct injection engine for improved fuel efficiency, horsepower and torque. 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. .

Lambda vehicles are produced in the new Lansing Delta Township Assembly plant near Lansing, Michigan. The Traverse began production in September 2008 at a retooled Spring Hill Assembly Plant in Tennessee, but production was later moved to Lansing.

It has been reported that Cadillac will receive a Lambda vehicle in 2012, which could possibly replace the current GMT900-based Escalade.

Minivans

GM was considering replacing the U-body minivans with new vehicles using the Lambda platform for the 2009 model year, but due to the decline of minivan sales the plan was cancelled.

Vehicles

Vehicles based on this platform:

• 2007–present GMC Acadia
• 2007–2010 Saturn Outlook
• 2008–present Buick Enclave
• 2009–present Chevrolet Traverse

References

• Kranz, Rich (April 12, 2005). "GM lagging behind in booming sport wagon market". AutoWeek. http://www.autoweek.com/article/20050412/FREE/504120701. Retrieved April 12, 2005. 
• "GM Drops Plans for New DOHC V8 Engine in 2009". Edmunds' Inside Line. http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=124170. Retrieved January 19, 2008.