One of the most forward-thinking features to be introduced in the Next Generation 2021 Yukon is the available power sliding center console (late availability).

This innovative technology was made possible through the hard work and determination of Alex Archer, a design release engineer who works on leading-edge projects. Just two years out of Stanford University and into her career with General Motors, Alex only had 36 months to bring the power sliding center console to life.

Despite the expedited timeline, this California native successfully shepherded the project to completion, leading a cooperative effort that has inspired a new way to think about vehicle interiors.

The power sliding center console is engaged by pressing and holding down an overhead toggle switch, causing it to slide rearward up to 10 inches. In its fully extended position, a drawer under the main console storage is revealed, which can be used as secured storage when rendered inaccessible in valet mode. The rearward movement also increases second-row passenger accessibility of the cupholders and rear console controls. In addition, the armrest can be manually pulled forward for use by the driver and front-row passenger when the console is extended rearward.

Learn more about Alex, the mentor who helped inspire her career, and the passion she has for creative design-thinking in the Detroit Free Press.