GM might base its future large SUV models on a car-like platform replacing the traditional body-on-frame chassis.
Under market pressure, GM might make its biggest revolution in the last ten years: switching from body-on-frame to unibody chassis for its large SUV models such as Chevrolet Tahoe or Cadillac Escalade. Body-on-frame chassis is heavier than an unibody chassis and penalise fuel efficiency. However the latter can’t tow as much as the former. Another problem with unibody chassis is that it’s more difficult to share components between models.
The concerned SUVs will likely be the Tahoe/Yukon/Escalade family which are based on the Chevrolet Silverado platform. If the Silverado justifies its body-on-frame chassis by being destined to heavy duties, the Tahoe-like models are destined for families. The next-generation is expected to be unveiled in 2012.
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