It looks as if Motor Trend has the scoop on General Motors’ future platform offerings, publishing an article this week outlining which models will operate on what platform. As I had previously suggested, the current Cadillac STS and DTS models will be unified for the 2011 model year, and run on the company’s newly merged Sigma-Zeta platform.
The Sigma platform, currently powering the Cadillac CTS, SRX, and STS will be phased out with the next generation CTS sitting on a shortened version of the merged platform. Thus the converged Sigma/Zeta platform will encompass six versions on three platform (wheelbase) variations.
Motor Trend has pointed out that some of the plans are definitely being shaped by higher Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) numbers set to kick in for 2011. Chevrolet isn’t likely to see a rear wheel drive Impala and the model will not include a V8. Likely, the Impala will operate on an entirely different platform, perhaps a stretched version of the Epsilon platform which underpins the Malibu.
Taking A Look At The List
By brand the Sigma/Zeta platform should underpin the following cars:
Cadillac: CTS and the STS/DTS replacement.
Buick: The replacement for the Lucerne.
Pontiac: The G8 with a possible coupe version developed.
Chevrolet: The Camaro.
GM’s Australian arm, Holden, will see several models spring from the converged platform with the Commodore, Statesmen, Monaro, and UTE likely to shar this platform.
Saturn wasn’t mentioned simply because by 2014 that brand will be unified with Opel and share smaller, European platforms. A smaller, rear wheel drive platform will be developed to underpin the Cadillac BLS, a compact Caddy for the European market. Eventually, that model will find its way to North America. Look for this new platform to show up on various Chevrolet, Pontiac, and Holden models as well.
Besides trimming costs, the Sigma/Zeta platform will allow GM to work towards meeting stringent fuel economy standards which are expected to rise considerably between now and 2020.
Photos copyright GM Corp.
Top to Bottom: Pontiac G8, Holden VE Sportwagon, Cadillac CTS Coupe
