Range Rover and Jaguar XJ will share platforms
By Andrew C., 27 Aug, 2010. 0 Comments
Jaguar Logo
From using six platforms, Jaguar Land Rover plans to just use two, including a platform shared between the Range Rover and Jaguar XJ. Creating a Range Rover out of the same structure that underpins the new XJ saloon requires only limited and inexpensive modifications. The floor and front crash structure will be unchanged but the Range Rover version will receive a taller front bulkhead and a modified rear bulkhead, which will accommodate folding rear seats.
The XJ'sfront strut towers are cast in one piece and bonded and riveted to the front chassis legs. To adjust for the model's higher ride height and much greater wheel articulation, the Range Rover will have taller towers. JLR will end up with two basic platforms. The basic set-up will be a conventional steel structure that will be based on Ford's C1 platform. This structure will come in three lengths and underpin the three-model Freelander family.
A super-size seven-seat Freelander is expected to replace the current Discovery, so a direct replacement is not anticipated. It's probable that Jaguar's aluminum architecture will be like the current wider, luxury version that's used for the firm's three flagship cars. The rest of Jaguar's future models, including the XE roadster, will have a new, narrower, more flexible structure. [via autonews - sub. required]
Latest Auto Shows
