GM's plans for Holden

US MEDIA outlets are probing deeper into Australian-developed rear-wheel drive General Motors models following the unveiling of the Holden VE Commodore SS-based Pontiac G8 in Chicago this month.

Automotive News this week quoted GM vehicle line executive Gene Stefanyshyn, who said global annual volume from the Holden RWD architecture – which he confirmed will support medium-sized cars as well as large – will be "around 500,000 to 700,000, somewhere in that range".

Mr Stefanyshyn also said that product development savings will be an estimated $US500-$US1000 per vehicle compared with different regions developing separate architectures – savings that would total $US250 million to $US750 million.

Listed future models include the Buick Royaum and Chevrolet Impala.

The Automotive News report said: "A Daewoo version will be offered in Korea this year from complete knockdown kits. A long-wheelbase Buick model will be assembled in China beginning next year. A version for Opel in Germany is being discussed.

"Today, Australia is the sole RWD assembly site. But starting in November or December 2008, GM’s Line No 1 assembly plant in Oshawa, Ontario, will turn out Camaro coupes. Several months later, a convertible will be offered.

"GM insiders say the redesigned RWD Impala will be added in 2009 or early 2010, after Oshawa’s Line No 2 plant is converted. Oshawa also will export some models. Five additional RWD models are envisioned for sale globally.

"At least six brands initially will market models on the RWD platform: Buick, Chevrolet, Daewoo, Holden, Pontiac and Vauxhall."