The ripple effect of Volkswagen’s dieselgate scandal has rocked the boat at Audi and as a result, to slash costs, the manufacturer won’t design and engineer its own platforms anymore.
German magazine Der Spiegel reports that Audi’s MLB platform could be the biggest victim of the money saving measures.
Currently, the MLB architecture underpins all models from the A4 to the A8 and the Q5 and Q7 SUVs. The next-generation range of models could instead be carried on Porsche’s MSB platform built for both rear- and all-wheel drive vehicles.
This would mean a switch from a longitudinal engine layout to a transverse setup on Audi’s mainstream A4 and A5 ranges, while offering rear-wheel drive for the first time.
The construction of a new wind tunnel and a new crash test facility have also been postponed due to cost saving measures.