A modular platform capable of serving cars across several classes will be created in Russia, according to a recent report. The plan envisions a single, scalable architecture that can support compact, mid-size, and business-class models by sharing a unified component base and common engineering standards. NAMI, the National Automotive Research and Manufacturing Institute, will take the lead in coordinating the work, aligning researchers, suppliers, and carmakers under a single strategic framework. The project centers on building a platform that can be adapted to different body styles while maintaining component compatibility and a streamlined supply chain across the domestic industry.
The plan calls for a modular platform that will cover the Golf class, mid-size, and business segments, with NAMI assuming a central leadership role in the process. The development will involve collaboration with state bodies, research institutes, and industry partners to ensure the interoperability of engines, transmissions, electronics, software interfaces, and other core modules. Matushansky reiterated that unifying the component base is essential to reducing costs, shortening development cycles, and boosting localization of production. These remarks were delivered at the National Technological Revolution 20.35 barcamp in St. Petersburg, reinforcing the government’s push for domestic automotive capability.
In addition, Matushansky noted that the platform will emphasize sequential hybrids and electric propulsion. The proposed architecture will integrate electric drive components, battery systems, and power electronics in a scalable way that can be used across different vehicle classes while preserving efficiency. The NAMI Institute will lead the ongoing work in coordination with the Ministry of Industry and Trade, with federal authorities signaling strong policy support to accelerate development and the possible deployment of the platform in car production. This approach aims to strengthen Russia’s automotive ecosystem by fostering domestic design, testing, and manufacturing capabilities.
In related industry developments, the Chinese automaker Hongqi unveiled a refreshed HS5 crossover. The updated model aims to compete with popular compact crossovers such as the Toyota RAV4, illustrating how global automakers continually sharpen their offerings in the same segments that Russia plans to cultivate domestically. The emergence of such competition underscores the strategic importance of a homegrown modular platform that could enable quick adaptation to market demands, supply chain changes, and evolving customer preferences across Golf, mid-size, and business brackets.