Volvo reveals future compact modular platform

Volvo has released details of its all-new platform, the Compact Modular Architecture or CMA. The platform is expected to underpin all future compact models from the Swedish manufacturer, with the first model using the platform expected to be revealed in 2017.

With the introduction of the CMA platform, all Volvos will be based around two platforms – the CMA for compact models and the SPA (Scalable Product Architecture) for its larger models. The CMA platform is expected to borrow components from the larger SPA platform that made its debut underpinning the second-gen XC90 SUV. Common components are expected to be combustion engines, plug-in hybrid hardware, as well as components related to the infotainment, climate, data network and safety systems.

The manufacturer states that the CMA platform will allow it to offer compact car customers the same engineering benefits as the owners of its larger premium vehicles underpinned by the SPA platform. The CMA platform will also form the basis of a new twin-engine, hybrid set-up and will allow Volvo to replace all its models in the international market in the next four years.

The all-new platform is expected to make its debut underpinning either the next-gen Volvo V40 or an all-new compact SUV, the XC40. Meanwhile, the larger SPA architecture will expand to a second model, the currently under development S90 sedan –  a replacement for the current S80 sedan.