GM may find other uses for ATS platform
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DETROIT --- Cadillac's new premium rear-wheel-drive vehicle platform can be used for nonpremium General Motors brands, too.
The vehicle platform, called Alpha, was developed for the 2013 Cadillac ATS. The ATS is a compact sedan targeted at the BMW 3 series and import-car enthusiasts.
Because the platform was created for Cadillac, some premium materials were used, said John Calabrese, GM vice president of global vehicle engineering. He gave no details.
"It is easy to take those parts and convert them to other materials, and you could use it for some other brand that may not be able to afford that price premium," Calabrese said. The platform is engineered so the length of the wheelbase and front and rear proportions can be modified for various models.
Said Calabrese: "This platform can do just about anything, from a convertible to a coupe to a station wagon."
