2007+ Chevrolet Avalanche

[Avalanche_XXX]

The next generation of full size GM Trucks, due in 2007 are called the 900's. (Current generation are 800's). I learned today that GM is requesting quotes for a GMT941.... the Chevrolet Avalanche.

This may be common knowledge in some circles around Detroit, but I posted this for the Av enthusiasts across the country.

Other 2007+ model designations:
GMT921 Chevy Tahoe
GMT931 Chevy Suburban
GMT941 Chevy Avalanche
GMT922 GMC Yukon
GMT932 GMC Yukon XL
GMT926 Cadillac Escalade
GMT936 Cadillac Escalade ESV
GMT946 Cadillac Escalade EXT

Long live the AV!

 

[Lightning]

Where are the concept sketches and photos

 

[empty]

requesting quotes

quotes for what?

 

[flynhigh]

Costs to build vs Profit Margin I would guess

 

[bikeymoy]

It's typical for auto makers to request quotes on all new tooling and components (car parts) from their suppliers several years in advance of production. In many cases the tooling to make these components and the testing of the parts involved can each take a year or more!

Does this mean they already know what the 2007 is gonna look like?... not exactly. But what they do know is how the guts are going to be configured! They likely have many different "shells" on the drawing board.

The exterior body parts are usually the last things to be developed for two reasons. First, there aren't as many machanical/electrical issues requiring those tests on a "static" body. Second, body parts are tooled relatively quickly AND consumer styling tastes change like the wind. Oops, I guess that's three reasons.

At any rate, it behooves them to wait as long as possible to "lock in" the exterior design.

Mike Melnick

 

[Avalanche_XXX]

You probably won't see any pictures (even close concept drawings) until 2005 or 2006. I recall when GM was developing the current full size trucks (GMT800), they kept the lid pretty tight on any pictures. There were some concept drawings floating around a year or two prior to the public introduction. The GMT800 was developed in a seperate building than the rest of the GM truck group (S10's, Blazer, Astro minivan, commercial medium duty truck).

The GMT900 "Request For Quotes" were for underbody components, though I'd prefer to not specify which they are. I know of a few GM suppliers in Detroit that are developing major components for the 2007+ GMT900 program.

I was glad to see that the Avalanche (GMT941) was specified on this request. Hopefully GM will take the Av into a second generation.

 

[imaniguana]

Don't worry. We don't mind. You can specify which components they are. We won't mind a bit!

 

[james21]

I really didn't think that GM would be keeping the AV as a regularly selling truck upto 2007.
Thats sweeeet!

Maybe by that time they may reconsider their decision to drop the NFE package

-James R.