Anyone who reads these pages is likely familiar with the terms MLB and MQB. The first represents Audi's current move to a modular longitudinal platform to be utilized on every model north of the Audi A4 and MLB is the planned modular transverse platform expected for use in the next Audi A3, TT and eventual second generation Audi A1 in addition to just about every other model from Volkswagen, SEAT and Skoda save the SEAT Exeo and VW Phaeton and Touareg.
By sharing certain componentry, it was planned all along that first Audi then the Volkswagen Group would save considerable development money. Turns out they'll also save on purchasing costs by about 20% says the Wall Street Journal.
Read more after the jump (subscription required to read more than a paragraph or two).
I'd love to read the full piece. Since the launch of the B8 A5/S5 I've thought that Volkswagen's Pièce de résistance in the market would be the new modular architectures.
They're the main factor giving them the capability to build models such as the A5 Sportback and forthcoming A7. They've provide greater profitability per model, which means a greater likelihood we'll see certain models here in the US, and they'll help hedge against currency fluctuations.
But best of all - the new modular structure should allow Audi and VW to do what Apple has been able to do with the flexible, componentized architecture of their OS X operating system: develop and deploy new components, technologies and models quicker at lower cost, higher quality and with greater profitability.
Travis L. Grundke tgrundke@gmail.com 2006 Audi A3 Sport, Cold Weather, Xenon, Open Sky, Nav+, Sound
"But best of all - the new modular structure should allow Audi and VW to do what Apple has been able to do with the flexible, componentized architecture of their OS X operating system: develop and deploy new components, technologies and models quicker at lower cost, higher quality and with greater profitability."
Shhhhh.... Don't spill the beans that us Audi people are Mac fans too... The haters from Windows will ram us with their Chevy's! I'm impatiently waiting for my new 27" top spec iMac
That A5 Sportback looks like just the ticket for me if they ship it here... My hot-rodded A4 is almost due for a refresh....
Modified by spinnetti at 8:45 PM 10/29/2009
Seat memory DOA, Taillight defective, 'lag of death', Convienence settings DOA, door noise, Finish off glovebox, Bad alignment/tire wear, Dead battery, AWD workshop, Homelink button finish wore off (twice), trim cracked, remote range 0, awd lockup (twice), failed center driveshaft bearing, failed TPMS, brake light sw (disabled vehicle), Noise on MFD, Airbag failure and more to come I' sure.
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