To share, or not to share? Part two

In part one, we picked on the latest generation of BMW’s M2 to point out some of the downsides – as well as the benefits – of platform sharing. The latter are so financially obvious that all car makers share platforms, to a greater or lesser extent. But this time around, let’s have a look at a very real platform sharing dilemma that most OEMs are facing right now – do they invest in a dedicated, optimised EV platform, or do they adopt a more ecumenical approach: all are welcome to our congregation, even ICE powertrains, thou sinners and givers-offeth of carbon emissions?

So let’s get stuck into a round of our old CEO-of-a-major-OEM role playing game.

Here you are, back in the boardroom, with the usual cast of C-suiters around the table. Your head is a bit muzzy with the lingering jet-lag/sleep-deprivation cocktail that you seem to be permanently nursing these days. The 6am investor Zoom call is already a hazily annoying memory, and you have that meeting with the second most obnoxious of the six union leaders later today. And now the CTO wants you to make a call about platform investment for the new mid- and large-sized vehicle line up for cars that will be around for the next two decades at least, or far longer than you will.