Volvo’s V40 might be replaced by a range of vehicles sharing one single platform. The new range might include a hatchback, crossover and a sedan. This project will be jointly handled by Volvo and its China-based owner Geely. The resultant vehicles will also be branded Geely and sold in the Chinese car market.
The modular architecture is very versatile allowing a higher level of component sharing. This will enable Geely to develop a range of affordable models using less advanced engine, suspension and convenience features. Joint venture chief Mäts Fagerhag describes it as a ‘plug and play’ approach to stress the project’s diverse ability to comply with various regional safety and emission norms.
Further to this development Volvo and Geely have joined forces to engineer the C Segment Modular Architecture (CMA) vehicle family. The first model from this platform may hit the market by 2017.
The Volvo V40 is the entry-level model for the company worldwide and this new development will give Volvo an array of models at the bottom range. Mercedes-Benz has a wide range of cars at the entry-level the A-Class, B-Class, CLA-Class and the upcoming GLA-class and Audi has its A1, A2, A3 sedan and the Q3 SUV. BMW has the 1 Series, 2 Series and the X1 SUV. Volvo definitely will like to try its hand at the entry-level segment and this decision is heading in only one direction-higher sales and revenue.
Source: Autocar India