Ford_B3_platform
Ford Global B-car Platform
Motor vehicle platform
The Ford global B-car platform (for "B-class") is a subcompact automobile platform that is jointly developed by Ford Motor Company and Mazda Motor Company at centers in Europe as well as North America and Australia.[1] Previously, Ford has used the Mazda-engineered D platform for its B-segment Ford Festiva (hatchback). This new global B-platform project was initiated by Ford in Dearborn, MI and is equipped with front MacPherson strut and twist-beam rear suspension.[1] The front suspension arms (wishbone) are attached to a pressed-steel welded subframe, which is directly bolted onto the bodyshell. The design is made to accommodate diverse engine options.