Renault-Nissan Unveil CMF Modular Platform to Lower Costs

RenaultRenaultFrance, 1898 > present189 models
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-NissanNissanJapan, 1932 > present159 models
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has revealed its new modular vehicle platform that it calls the Common Module Family (CMF). It claims that the platform will reduce production costs by 30%-40% per car and parts will cost 20%-30% less than they do currently. It says that the new platform will be on sale on five continents by 2020 and be used on 11 Renault models and three Nissans.

The CMF platform will be used on multiple vehicle types from compact hatchbacks to large cars. It allows separate sections of the vehicle to be assembled as separate modules to build a car. The engine bay, cockpit, front underbody, rear underbody and electronics are all treated as separate, modular parts.

Unlike using shared platforms, Renault-Nissan’s modular approach for a wider array of vehicles sharing more parts.

“CMF opens a new era in engineering synergies for the Alliance. This will enable us to pursue volume efficiencies and introduce attractive new technologies in our products faster than before, creating additional value for our customers,” said Tsuyoshi Yamaguchi, Renault-Nissan’s head of engineering.

Vehicles in different segments will be able to share modules, which will reduce costs by standardizing components. Renault and Nissan will create an Alliance parts bank where they negotiate with suppliers together to order parts and result in cheaper parts costs.

The first cars to use the CMF platform will be for compact and large cars. The first Nissan vehicles to use it will be the next generation RogueNissan RogueJapan, 2007 > 201312 versions
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, QashqaiNissan QashqaiJapan, 2006 > 2014305 versions
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and X-TrailNissan X-Trail Gen.2Japan, 2007 > 201328 versions
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that will start hitting the market in late 2013. The next generation Renault Espace, ScenicRenault Scenic Gen.3France, 2009 > present121 versions
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and LagunaRenault Laguna Gen.3France, 2007 > present125 versions
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will use the platform starting in late 2014.