iStream

- Advantages

• The construction method allows the chassis to be scaled in size for different products
  with each new design requiring only low-cost tooling and software changes.

• This flexibility means that the chassis can be used as a standard ‘platform’ to deliver different vehicle types and model variants e.g. car, urban delivery van, taxi, emergency support vehicle.

• Combining this flexibility with the separate chassis and assembly lines, means that the same factory could be used to manufacture different variants.

• Entirely new model variants can be produced with significantly reduced lead times from concept to market.

• Simplified assembly with easier access reduces assembly times and the risks of inline damage  â€“  avoiding the additional delay and cost associated with rework.

• Prepainted body panels mean that there is no need for a paint shop in the assembly plant which removes the complications associated with vox emissions.

• Mechanical fixing of body panels is quick and low-energy. It also makes future repairs relatively simple as replacement panels are quicker and easier to fix.

• There is also the future potential to adapt the factory to take in ‘old cars’ to be upgraded,
  reusing core parts such as the chassis and running gear with significant environmental benefits including reduced landfill and recycling at end-of-life.

• This process could also be used for cosmetic updates to suit customer preferences as
  replacing body panels is relatively simple.