check it out @ http://autoweek.com/cat_content.mv?p..._code=08772466







Interesting parts of article:

Lutz said in May that GM has built Solstice prototypes on what he described as "a small, light, four-cylinder-only, rwd architecture."


A GM source said Wilmington might produce the family of Solstice vehicles and vehicles on another architecture. In GM parlance, an architecture refers to the common components, range of performance, manufacturing process, dimensions and component connecting points used to build a group of vehicles

 

Yep, still progressing.

 

It will be interesting to see what other vehicles that will be made in Wilmington other than the 2-seater Solstice and the possible 2 or 4 seat coupe version.

Maybe the next-gen Camaro could be made there as well as the next-gen GTO.

 

This is very good news. Cant wait for that to happen

I wonder why he specifically said "four-cylinder-only." Maybe in hopes to shut us up about trying to convince him that a V8 (Camaro) can be built in it as well.

 

Interesting on the 4 cylinder only part. I thought they were going to keep a V6 option open for a 4 seat counter part?
I had a feeling a while back that a V8 and 2+2 at the same time was too much of a stretch for the Solstice. Requires too much additional engineering. The next gen GTO platform will already have all V8 needs met.

 

I doubt GM would put a V8 in the Solstice since GM already has the Corvette but if another auto maker produced a small V8 roadster then maybe GM would do it. A V8 version would most likely send the price up in the mid 30's and have a very limited production to keep it rare and keep the demand for it strong. While a mass-produced Solstice might not be designed for a V8 im sure they could have company like-SLP or someone more qualified to do actual reinforcement of the chassis and install the V8 for a very limited production.

While a super-charged 4cyl. in the Solstice would be a better balance for a sports car a V8 version would keep the Solstice on magazine covers for years and years to come. The 4cyl Solstice would be a real world affordable sports car for the masses and the V8 version of the Solstice would become the automotive equivalent of ****.

 

GM's space frame's are extremely rigid structures, no reinforcement is needed to handle the hp or torque of a v8. There are plenty of v8 fieros around, also vauxhall and Opel want to put a v8 in this same platform.

 

and here is a picture of one of those prototypes..

copy and paste...

http://www.carscoops.50megs.com/images/solstice.jpg

 

With that chrome windshield frame & rims it seems like it's going to have some pretty good touches.