GM product chief hints it’s not too late for the G8

GENERAL Motors vice-chairman of global product development Tom Stephens has confirmed that discussions are taking place about continuing Holden Commodore-based exports to the US under a badge other than the current Pontiac G8, which will be discontinued by the end of this year.

In contrast to reports last week that GM chief executive Fritz Henderson had written in a website blog that there was “no chance” the G8 would be resurrected under another brand, Mr Stephens has told US industry journal Automotive News – and backed comments from Holden management – that rebranding the performance sedan remained an option.

“I know there’s still discussions on it,” said Mr Stephens, adding that Chevrolet might not be the first choice.

“Chevrolet already has several sedans. How many sedans do you need to cover the waterfront?” As reported last week, GoAuto understands that Holden has put a business case to Cadillac for both short-wheelbase and long-wheelbase VE-based models.

The Australian manufacturer also has ties with GMC and Buick – and Chevrolet remains on the agenda.

Enthusiasts have been calling for the G8 to be reborn as an Impala SS, and as GoAuto revealed in detail in April, the Australian-based National Safety Agency is in talks with a number of North American law enforcement agencies to produce a Commodore-based police car – possibly under, but not necessarily limited to, the Chevrolet brand.

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Holden still eyes US exports

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