Toyota showcases new GA-B small car platform
Toyota has introduced a new platform, specifically developed for small cars, termed GA-B. This is a development of the TNGA platform whose various iterations have spawned many of the carmaker's recent offerings like the new Camry, Prius and upcoming Corolla. The GA-B is also a modular architecture that can be adapted to various wheelbase lengths, heights and track widths. It will debut in the next year's new Toyota Yaris.
There's more focus on driving ability. This is by way of a highly rigid underbody and by positioning the driver's seat low and back towards the centre of the car, helping lower the vehicle's centre of gravity. This platform employs a MacPherson strut set-up in the front while the rear can accommodate either a torsion beam or multi-link set-up. Smarter packaging is also at play here to free up more interior space.
The hardpoints of the upper body and the driver's hip-point are set low, so there is more scope to create vehicles that have a low height and wide stance. The wheels have been pushed to the corners of the platform and very short overhangs have been added to heighten the visual appeal. Further standardised components have been used in out of sight areas. This lowers costs and simplifies the designing process but gives each car an individual appeal.
Expect this platform to underpin a range of small hatchbacks and SUVs from the carmaker in the near future.