The Volkswagen Group (composed of Volkswagen, Audi, and Porsche) has just announced that it is planning three mid-engine cars but already, the three organizations have entered an agreement for a new platform.
Porsche’s staff will be in charge of this new platform’s development and engineering. According to a report from Automobilwoche, the new platform, named Modular Standard Platform (or MSB, when using German initials), is a front-engine configuration that will hold both longitudinal and transverse engine installations. This platform is designed to fit several products ranging from front-wheel-drive Volkswagens to rear-wheel-drive Porsches.
But so far, only three products have been linked to the platform. There are reports hinting that the MSB may be featured on the next-generation Porsche Panamera, Cayenne SUV, and a new Bentley model. Reports also indicate that VW is confident that this platform will have its rivals scrambling to keep up with it and will considerably decrease development costs and time frames.
It can be recalled that this platform fulfills the pledge that VW made last year when it assumed control of Porsche. If these reports are true, it means that handling and dynamics will be improved. The current Panamera is impressive as it is but Automobilwoche thinks it’s possible that the MSB platform will place the engine on or slightly aft of the front axle’s axis, which has the potential to improve weight distribution.
source: 4wheelsnews
