Vehicle Platforms

PLATFORMS

As mentioned in previous posts, I intend to cover the vehicle platforms first. Discussion of the platforms and the various vehicles that would utilize them will include a generic mention of powertrain configurations, but not specifics. Powertrains will be a separate post at some time in the near future, and will then be followed by the vehicle line posts.

Platforms would either be based on existing platforms within the FoMoCo empire (including Mazda and Volvo), evolutions of same, or reasonably likely replacements for the current class of platform. Again, I am not nor do I claim to be an engineer. Nor am I a bean counter. The feasibility of these platforms from both a technical as well as a financial perspective has not been determined. I am simply working off of my basic understanding of cars, the current state of the market, the current state of Ford's vehicle lineups throughout the world, and what future prognosticating has already been done. That being said, here we go.

Small FWD/AWD platform

This platform would underpin the majority of small cars and crossover utility vehicles within several of Ford's brands. Given this range, the modular platform would be able to accommodate vehicle lengths from approximately 165 to 182 inches. Powertrains would consist of 4cyl and hybrid 4cyl motors, and possibly 6cyl motors. Transmissions include 6m and 6a on the 4cyl cars, CVT for the hybrids, and 6m and 6a for the 6cyl cars. Suspension configurations would either be MacPherson Strut or Double Wishbone on the front, and 5 link rear.

Intermediate FWD/AWD platform

This platform would underpin the majority of mid-size cars and crossover utility vehicles within several of Ford's brands. Given this range, the modular platform, which is effectively an evolution of the aforementioned Small FWD/AWD platform, would be able to accommodate vehicle lengths from approximately 185 to 195 inches. Powertrains would consist of 4cyl and 6cyl motors, and hybrid 4cyl and possibly hybrid 6cyl motors. Transmissions include 6m and 6a on the 4cyl cars, CVT for the hybrids, and 6m and 6a for the 6cyl cars. Suspension configurations would either be MacPherson Strut or Double Wishbone on the front, and 5 link rear.

Intermediate/Large RWD/AWD platform

To me, this is the platform where the fun begins. Rear wheel drive with optional AWD, underpinning a variety of mid-size and large sedans, coupes, and CUVs. In the interest of further amortization of costs, the Mustang would also be built on this platform. The vehicles on this platform could range from lengths of approximately 186 to 206 inches. Powertrains would consist primarily of 6cyl and 8cyl gasoline motors, with possible application of the EcoBoost turbo 4cyl, hybrid gasoline 6cyls, and 6cyl turbo diesels. Transmissions include 6m (certain vehicles) and 6a for the majority of cars, with some luxury or performance models including a future 8 speed automatic. Suspension would be MacPherson Strut front and 5 link rear.

Light Duty Truck RWD/4WD platform

This is an obvious application. I envision this platform being utilized in a fashion similar to that of Nissan's F-Alpha truck platform. This platform would not only underpin the full-size pickup trucks and SUVs, but also a mid-size pickup to replace the Ranger and a true compact to mid-size SUV. The plaform would have a fully boxed frame, and would support an A-Arm independent front suspension and either a solid rear axle located with coils or a multi-link independent rear axle. Powertrains would consist of 4cyl, 6cyl and 8cyl gasoline motors, and 6cyl turbo diesels. Transmissions include 6m (certain applications) and 6a for all vehicles.

Heavy Duty Truck RWD/4WD platform

This is an even more obvious application, with vehicles including full-size trucks, vans, and utility/cutaway fitments/chassis cabs. There would be a fully boxed frame, with a coil-sprung independent front suspension on lighter-duty applications and a solid front axle with leaf springs for heavier duty applications. Rear suspension would consist of solid rear axles located with leaf springs. Powertrains would consist of 8cyl gasoline and 8cyl turbo diesel motors. Transmissions include 6m (certain applications) and 6a for all vehicles.

So now we have the platforms established, and we've alluded to the vehicles that would populate the Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln lineups in North America (and possible export markets). Stay tuned for the powertrain post.