What is a platform?
Bob Sheaves
I have noticed a disturbing trend, in that the definition of "platform" is getting sloppy.
Originally, a "platform" consisted not only of suspension, but driveline and most importantly (single most expensive component) the pan stamping (commonly called floorpan and firewall).
By current logic, that is to say the Prowler uses the LH platform, the following can also be considered true:
1. Viper is built from the Dakota platform
2. PT is built from the Neon platform
3. The Caliber will be built on a Mitsubishi Lancer platform.
4. The NS/GS minivan shares the Neon platform.
My point is that some people (primarily press types at DCX from what I see) are tossing around specific engineering terms with no knowledge of the true meaning. They think is simply "sounds good," I guess. Others pick up the use and think that it's the correct usage of the term.
[Webmaster: a platform actually seems to be defined as a collection of fixed hard points, so that different vehicles with the same points can be built on a single assembly line, with similar crash characteristics. Hence, the Reliant, Spirit, Daytona, Limousine, and Caravan, despite having major differences in appearance, handling, length, height, etc., can be said to be on the same platform - and would be even if they did not also have very similar suspensions and engines. As Bob says:]
The importance of this seemingly insignificant distinction is that platform sharing is not necessarily a bad thing- the entire EEK series was based on the concept-and I do not believe that anyone would confuse the "looks" of a minivan and a Daytona as being the same basic components and floorpan under the skin.
A next gen Neon and Lancer EVO can be brothers under the skin, and yet have two entirely different personalities. We should wait and see before judging the results of a Mitsu and Chrysler blending. Parts sharing does not mean platform sharing.
Gary
Good point about the fuzzy definition of "platform".
Perhaps I'm wrong, but my understanding was a platform is a basic dimensional design. On the K platform, the frame, suspension and drivetrain mounting points and firewall were common. The platform determines body width, firewall height and to some degree the length because of front suspension points being located an established distance from the driver position.
Sharing a platform saves re-testing the basics every time a new model is designed. A couple of obvious savings are time and tooling commonality. The obvious problems are the inability to make needed changes as problems arise or styles and customer needs change.
