Toyota has introduced a new modular platform, called the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA). The new TNGA platform is said to host a slew of benefits, including better overall stiffness. Engine output and fuel efficiency, according to Toyota, will also be improved.
Akio Toyoda, president of Toyota said, “I want 2015 to be a year in which we take steady and bold steps toward sustainable growth. We can do this by launching new models that incorporate TNGA, and making good use of this intentional pause to strengthen our competitiveness. Based on the new management structure we announced this month, it is important that we improve our true competitiveness, including strengthening our human resources. We aim to be a company that grows sustainably―a tree with a strong trunk.”
The new TNGA platform is said to be 30% – 65% stiffer than existing Toyota platforms thanks to their laser screw welding technology. Apart from the stiffness, fuel economy will also be increased by about 25% and engine output will increase by another 15%. Toyota predicts that 50% of their cars sold worldwide will be using the TNGA platform by 2020.
Moving inside, Toyota has designed the TNGA to have common seat frames that allows five passengers to seat nicely, but also possible with different heights, which allows the new platform to be versatile to cover almost any vehicle type.
Toyota has also mentioned that the first model to use the TNGA platform will be a front wheel drive mid-sized car, but no further details were provided.
