Role of Platform Engineering in Achieving Scalable EV–ICE Production

Automakers are under increasing pressure to produce electric vehicles (EVs) alongside traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) models, often within the same manufacturing facilities. Platform engineering—through the development of modular, shared vehicle architectures—has emerged as a key strategy to meet this challenge. By standardizing chassis elements, attachment points, and tooling systems, manufacturers can achieve flexible production systems capable of accommodating multiple powertrain types with minimal reconfiguration. This paper reviews contemporary approaches to mixed-model automotive manufacturing, with case studies of Volkswagen Group, Hyundai/Kia Motor Group, BMW, Honda, and Toyota. The analysis highlights the technical, economic, and strategic trade-offs between dedicated EV platforms and unified multi-powertrain architectures, underscoring the role of platform commonality in enabling scalable, cost-effective production during the transition to electrification. Keywords: electric vehicles, internal combustion engine, platform engineering, modular architectures, shared vehicle platforms, flexible production systems, mixed‑model manufacturing, dedicated EV platforms, multi‑powertrain architectures, platform commonality, automotive manufacturing, Volkswagen Group, Hyundai Kia, BMW, Honda, Toyota, electrification transition