The Renault-Nissan alliance will use a new Common Module Family system to underpin 14 models, with more widespread use intended by 2020.
The new engineering architecture will be used on 11 Renault vehicles including replacements for the Espace, Scenic and Laguna. Nissan will use the design on upcoming replacement versions of the Qashqai and X-Trail, plus the Rogue in the US.
Rather than being a shared common platform such as VW Group's MQB, the Common Module Family system is instead based around compatible modules, such as the engine bay, cabin, and front and rear underbody sections, coming together to form complete vehicles.
Consequently vehicles constructed using the CMF system can utilise different platforms, allowing for further distinction between models and multiple variants. The first vehicles to use CMF will reach production by the end of the year.
It's claimed that the sharing of parts and modules will generate long-term cost savings - as much as 30 percent on parts alone - for the manufacturers involved. The alliance says using the CMF could additionally mean entry costs for its cars are reduced by as much as 40 percent.
The CMF system is expected to be used in the construction of approximately 1.6 million vehicles per year initially, in the compact and large car segments, with it being expanded to include other models in the manufacturers' ranges in the years leading up to 2020.
Because cars using the CMF will be sold globally, the alliance says the new module system will give it greater economies of scale than the current B platform which underpins vehicles like the Clio and Micra.
Jean-Michel Billig, engineering, quality and IT Director, Renault, said, “With CMF, the investments in vehicle architecture and non-visible parts are mutualised, resulting in significant cost reductions that allow us to roll out our innovation policy in terms of environment, safety and new technologies for all our customers.” Tsuyoshi Yamaguchi, Alliance Director responsible for engineering, said, “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.”