At the 2015 Frankfurt IAA, Toyota previewed its all-new Global Architecture; TNGA. Set to become the foundation for all Toyota’s future powertrain and vehicle development, it streamlines the production process by standardising the size and position of key components.
Toyota states that TNGA directly contributes to making cars more enjoyable to drive. The new platforms have been designed to achieve a low vehicle centre of gravity with less body roll. This has been achieved through lowering engine components within the platform, as well as the increased use of high-strength steel in the new platform. As an example, the new Prius, which is the first car to be produced on the TNGA platform, has a 60 per cent more rigid body shell than its predecessor.
The TNGA platform also introduces a set of new, defined layout rules for the position of different components that will simplify vehicle design in key areas. Items such as the pedals, steering column and driver’s seat will conform to one of five different lay-outs according to vehicle type and platform. Toyota’s TNGA solution will provide an ergonomic combination to suit the vehicle, in line with the floor height provided by the platform.
This will be effective whether the emphasis is on sporting character or practical packaging with plenty of rear seat legroom. The five lay-outs cover the requirements of the complete vehicle range, from compact sports cars to SUVs.
Toyota calculates that TNGA will reduce the amount of manpower required for vehicle development by 20 per cent. It also reduces the level of investment required for bringing new products to market, while increasing the competitiveness and flexibility of Toyota’s existing manufacturing plants.
