Method of manufacturing vehicles according to two manufacturing configurations and associated fleet of two vehicles

Abstract

The invention relates to a process for manufacturing a vehicle (12A, 12B), wherein the vehicle (12A, 12B) comprises a central unit (25A, 25B) comprising: a) a generic central element group (26) comprising a battery, and b) two side skirts. The process comprises a step of selecting a vehicle configuration between a first manufacturing configuration and a second manufacturing configuration. The width of the vehicle (12A) in the first manufacturing configuration is smaller than the width of the vehicle (12B) in the second manufacturing configuration. The generic central element group (26) is identical in both manufacturing configurations. In the first manufacturing configuration, each side skirt is fixed to one face of the battery. The vehicle (12B) in the second configuration further comprises two interface pieces, each interface piece being fixed between one of the side skirts (28) and a corresponding end face of the battery.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for manufacturing a vehicle and a related vehicle set. Background Technology

[0002] As is well known, vehicles, especially motor vehicles, are manufactured in different sizes, particularly different widths, to suit different specific purposes.

[0003] The design and manufacturing process of a vehicle are also specific to the chosen dimensions, especially the chosen specific width.

[0004] In particular, the various vehicle components are designed with this specific width constraint in mind.

[0005] Therefore, this huge diversity of components and manufacturing processes is costly for manufacturers. Summary of the Invention

[0006] One of the objectives of this invention is to make vehicle manufacturing more economical.

[0007] In particular, one of the objectives of this invention is to provide a process for manufacturing vehicles of different widths while retaining a large number of common parts.

[0008] Therefore, the present invention relates to a process for manufacturing a vehicle, wherein the vehicle includes a central unit comprising:

[0009] - A general central component group, which includes at least:

[0010] - Two longitudinal members, each extending along the longitudinal direction, the two longitudinal members being spaced apart in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, and

[0011] - A battery, which is arranged below two longitudinal members and extends laterally between the right and left end faces, and

[0012] - Two side skirts, the two side skirts being spaced apart in the lateral direction;

[0013] The process is characterized by including a step of selecting a vehicle configuration between a first manufacturing configuration and a second manufacturing configuration.

[0014] The difference lies in the fact that the width of the vehicle in the first manufacturing configuration is smaller than the width of the vehicle in the second manufacturing configuration, and the width is measured in the lateral direction.

[0015] The key difference is that the general-purpose central component assembly is identical in both the first and second manufacturing configurations.

[0016] In the first manufacturing configuration, one of the side skirts is fixed to the right end face of the battery, and the other side skirt is fixed to the left end face of the battery.

[0017] The vehicle in the second configuration additionally includes two interface pieces, one of which is fixed between one of the side skirts and the right end face of the battery, and the other of which is fixed between the other side skirt and the left end face of the battery.

[0018] In other advantageous aspects of the invention, the process includes one or more of the following features, presented individually or in any technically possible combination:

[0019] - The difference in vehicle width between the first manufacturing configuration and the second manufacturing configuration is between 80mm and 160mm, preferably between 100mm and 130mm.

[0020] - Each interface component is a bracket.

[0021] - The vehicle includes a rear unit that comprises a universal rear component assembly and two rear suspension arms.

[0022] The general-purpose rear component group is identical in both the first and second manufacturing configurations.

[0023] The two rear suspension arms are spaced apart in the lateral direction, and in the first manufacturing configuration the distance between the two rear suspension arms is smaller than in the second manufacturing configuration.

[0024] - The rear unit includes two rear shock absorbers, each of which is fixed to one of the rear suspension arms. In the first manufacturing configuration, the distance between the two rear shock absorbers is smaller than the distance between the two rear shock absorbers in the second manufacturing configuration.

[0025] - The vehicle includes a front unit that includes a common front component group, which is identical in both a first manufacturing configuration and a second manufacturing configuration.

[0026] In the first manufacturing configuration, the front unit includes two first front suspension arms, and

[0027] In the second manufacturing configuration, the front unit includes two second front suspension arms, which are longer than the first front suspension arms.

[0028] - The vehicle includes a dashboard unit that comprises a common dashboard component group, which is identical in both a first manufacturing configuration and a second manufacturing configuration.

[0029] The dashboard component group includes laterally extending dashboard cross members.

[0030] - The dashboard unit in the first manufacturing configuration includes at least one first structural element fixed to the dashboard cross member, and the dashboard unit in the second manufacturing configuration includes at least one second structural element fixed to the dashboard cross member, the second structural element being wider than the first structural element.

[0031] The present invention also relates to a trainset, comprising:

[0032] - A first vehicle manufactured according to the process for manufacturing a vehicle described above, the first vehicle being in a first manufacturing configuration, and

[0033] - A second vehicle manufactured according to the process for manufacturing vehicles described above, the second vehicle being in a second manufacturing configuration;

[0034] The width of the first vehicle is smaller than the width of the second vehicle. Attached Figure Description

[0035] The invention will become clearer from the following description, given only as a non-limiting example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle group including a first vehicle and a second vehicle according to the present invention.

[0037] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the underside of the first and second vehicles.

[0038] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the central unit of the first vehicle.

[0039] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the side skirts fixed in both the first and second vehicles.

[0040] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 Bottom view of the front unit of the first vehicle in the picture, and

[0041] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 Bottom view of part of the central unit and rear unit of the first vehicle. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Figure 1 The illustration shows a vehicle assembly 10 according to the present invention.

[0043] The train set 10 includes a first vehicle 12A and a second vehicle 12B.

[0044] For clarity, similar elements between the first vehicle 12A and the second vehicle 12B are referred to by the same reference numerals in the remainder of the specification. Elements unique to the first vehicle 12A are marked with the letter A at the end of their reference numerals, while elements unique to the second vehicle 12B are marked with the letter B.

[0045] The first vehicle 12A and the second vehicle 12B are each, for example, motor vehicles, particularly commercial vehicles, and more specifically, light commercial vehicles.

[0046] In particular, each of the first vehicle 12A and the second vehicle 12B is designed to transport goods (e.g., parcels) and / or passengers.

[0047] The first vehicle 12A and the second vehicle 12B are each, for example, as shown in the example. Figure 1 The van shown.

[0048] Preferably, the first vehicle 12A and the second vehicle 12B are both electric vehicles.

[0049] For clarity, for both the first vehicle 12A and the second vehicle 12B, the longitudinal direction X is defined. A,B Horizontal direction Y A,B and vertical direction Z A,B orthogonal reference frame X A,B Y A,B Z A,B Vertical direction X A,B Extending along the forward axis of vehicles 12A and 12B, and corresponding to the front and rear axes of vehicles 12A and 12B. Lateral direction Y A,B Perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X A,B And corresponding to the left and right axes of vehicles 12A and 12B. Vertical direction Z A,B Perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X A,B and the horizontal direction Y A,B And corresponding to the upper and lower axes of vehicles 12A and 12B.

[0050] The terms "upper" and "lower" refer to the vertical direction Z relative to the height of vehicles 12A and 12B. A,B The terms “left,” “right,” “front,” and “rear” are defined relative to the conventional driving direction of vehicles 12A and 12B.

[0051] The first vehicle 12A was configured according to the initial manufacturing configuration.

[0052] Example of the first vehicle 12A Figure 1 and Figure 2 Visible in and Figures 3 to 6 It is visible in the central part.

[0053] Preferably, the first vehicle 12A is a vehicle of a first size.

[0054] The first vehicle 12A, for example, has a lateral direction Y... A Measured width P A The width is between 1850mm and 2000mm, more specifically between 1910mm and 1940mm, and even more specifically, it is basically equal to 1920mm.

[0055] like Figure 2 As can be seen, the width P A For example, the width corresponding to the span of the wings specifically corresponds to the maximum value between the width spanning the front fender and the width spanning the rear fender.

[0056] The width across the fender is here defined as along the lateral direction Y. A The distance between the two front fenders 18A and 20A, and between the two rear fenders 22A and 24A, especially the distance between the right front fender 18A, the right rear fender 22A, the left front fender 20A, and the left rear fender 24A.

[0057] For example, the length L of the first vehicle 12A A (along the longitudinal direction X) A (Measured between the front end 14A and the rear end 16A of the first vehicle 12A) is between 4300mm and 5000mm, and more specifically between 4600mm and 4700mm.

[0058] For example, the height H of the first vehicle 12A A (along the vertical direction Z) A (Measured) The diameter is between 1700mm and 2000mm.

[0059] The first vehicle 12A includes a central unit 25A, and preferably includes at least one of the following: a front unit 27A, a rear unit 29A, or an instrument panel unit 31A.

[0060] The central unit 25A of the first vehicle 12A is arranged, for example, in the center of the first vehicle 12A, particularly along the longitudinal direction X. A The center.

[0061] The central unit 25A includes a general central element group 26 and two side skirts 28.

[0062] Optionally, the central unit 25A of the first vehicle 12A also includes a first floor 37A.

[0063] The general central component group 26 includes at least two longitudinal members 38 and a battery 40.

[0064] Optionally, but preferably, the general central component group 26 also includes a cross member 45.

[0065] Both longitudinal members 38 are along the longitudinal direction X A Extend, and along the lateral direction Y A Separately spaced.

[0066] In particular, the two longitudinal members 38 correspond to the left longitudinal member and the right longitudinal member, such as Figure 6 visible.

[0067] Two longitudinal members are spaced 38 apart, for example, along the transverse direction Y. A The distance d1 was measured between 1400mm and 1900mm.

[0068] Each of the two longitudinal members 38 is, for example, a metal beam made of steel or aluminum alloy.

[0069] Each of the two longitudinal members 38 has, for example, a basically square open box-shaped cross section with a side length between 3 cm and 15 cm.

[0070] Each of the two longitudinal members 38 preferably defines a transverse direction Y. A The inner surface 48 and the outer surface 50 are opposite to each other.

[0071] In particular, the inner surfaces 48 of the two longitudinal members 38 face each other.

[0072] Battery 40 is located below the two longitudinal members 38.

[0073] Battery 40 along the lateral direction Y A It extends between the right end face 52 and the left end face. Figure 4 Only the right end face is visible in the middle.

[0074] Battery 40 is preferably a traction battery, especially a battery with a terminal voltage of 800V.

[0075] Battery 40 includes, for example, a protective housing 54 and an electrochemical battery module 56.

[0076] For example, the protective housing 54 defines a compartment therein that houses the module 56.

[0077] In particular, the protective housing 54 defines both the right end face 52 and the left end face.

[0078] For example, each of the right end face 52 and the left end face includes a flat (particularly vertical) portion 57 and a retaining lug 58 extending laterally outward from the flat portion 57, such as Figure 4 visible.

[0079] like Figure 6As shown, the transverse member 45, for example, is along the transverse direction Y. A The extension extends, particularly between the two longitudinal members 38.

[0080] Preferably, the transverse member 45 connects the two longitudinal members 38.

[0081] The two side skirts 28 are based on the horizontal Y direction. A Separately spaced.

[0082] In particular, the two side skirts 28 correspond to the left and right side skirts. Figure 4 Only the right side skirt panel is visible in the middle.

[0083] Each side skirt 28 is preferably located at the front of the first vehicle 12A.

[0084] In particular, each side skirt 28 is, for example, a component that ensures continuity between the bottom side body of the first vehicle 12A and the bottom of the corresponding door.

[0085] In particular, each side skirt 28 defines the lateral direction Y. A The inner surface 62 and the outer surface 64 are opposite to each other. In particular, the outer surface 64 extends toward the outer side of the first vehicle 12A.

[0086] like Figure 4 As illustrated, for example, the height of the inner surface 62 measured in the vertical direction Z is lower than that of the outer surface 64, such that each side skirt 28 defines a shoulder 66, for example, between the inner and outer surfaces.

[0087] Each side skirt 28 preferably extends opposite to the outer 50 of the corresponding longitudinal member 38.

[0088] More specifically, the inner surface 62 of each side skirt 28 preferably extends opposite to the outer surface 50 of the corresponding longitudinal member 38.

[0089] More precisely, the inner surface 62 of each side skirt 28 is, for example, a distance d from the outer surface 50 of the corresponding longitudinal member 38, particularly from the flat portion 57. 2,A Extending from there, such as Figure 4 Visible.

[0090] Distance d 2,A Especially along the lateral direction Y A The measured distance is, for example, between 50mm and 150mm.

[0091] In the first manufacturing configuration (first vehicle 12A), one of the side skirts 28, referred to as the right side skirt, is fixed to the right end face 52 of the battery 40, as shown. Figure 4 As shown. The other side skirt 28, referred to as the left side skirt, is fixed to the left end face of the battery 40.

[0092] For example, the right side skirt 28, and especially its shoulder 66, is fixed to a fixing lug 58 on the right end face 52 of the battery 40.

[0093] Similarly, the left side skirt 28, and especially its shoulder 66, is fixed to a fixing lug 58 on the left end face of the battery 40.

[0094] Preferably, for example, each side skirt 28 is secured to the battery 40 by a fastening device 68 (such as a screw).

[0095] Preferably, in particular, the first floor 37A is fixed to the longitudinal member 38.

[0096] For example, the first floor 37A defines the step 78A, especially the step at the door, and is fixed to the corresponding side skirt 28, such as... Figure 4 Visible.

[0097] For example, the front unit 27A of the first vehicle 12A is arranged at the front of the first vehicle 12A.

[0098] In particular, the front unit 27A includes a general front component group 44, and preferably includes two first front suspension arms 34A.

[0099] Advantageously, the general front component group 44 includes multiple components, particularly those for the vehicle's steering, suspension, and propulsion, such as the engine, transmission, differential, steering system, and front suspension.

[0100] Preferably, the front unit 27A includes two first front suspension arms 34A that advantageously provide a connection between the front wheels and the chassis.

[0101] For example, the two first front suspension arms 34A along the lateral direction Y A Separated from each other, as Figure 5 visible.

[0102] In particular, the two first front suspension arms 34A correspond to the left front suspension arm and the right front suspension arm.

[0103] In the illustrated embodiment, each of the two first front suspension arms 34A is specifically a double wishbone.

[0104] In other words, each of the two first front suspension arms 34A includes a vertical Z-axis. A One is positioned above the other, an upper arm (not visible in the image) and a lower arm.

[0105] Each of the upper arm and lower arm preferably includes a lateral arm 74A (e.g., fixed to the hub of the corresponding front wheel) and a tilt arm 76A (particularly forming a non-zero angle with the lateral arm 74A).

[0106] The rear unit 29A of the first vehicle 12A is arranged, for example, at the rear of the first vehicle 12A.

[0107] In particular, the rear unit 29A includes a general rear component assembly 33, two rear suspension arms 30, and preferably also includes two rear shock absorbers 32.

[0108] Advantageously, the general rear component group 33 includes multiple components, particularly those for the vehicle's steering, suspension, and propulsion, such as the rear axle and rear differential.

[0109] like Figure 6 It is evident that the two rear suspension arms 30 preferably provide the connection between the rear wheels and the chassis.

[0110] In particular, each of the two rear suspension arms 30 is, for example, fixed to one of the longitudinal members 38, and preferably also fixed to the transverse member 45.

[0111] In particular, the two rear suspension arms 30 correspond to the left rear suspension arm, which is fixed to the left longitudinal member, and the right rear suspension arm, which is fixed to the right longitudinal member.

[0112] Each rear suspension arm 30 includes, for example, a secondary arm 72 and, particularly, along the longitudinal direction X. A Extended main arm 70.

[0113] For example, the two rear suspension arms 30 along the lateral direction Y A Separately spaced.

[0114] In particular, the two rear suspension arms are spaced apart by a distance d, for example. 3,A This distance is along the lateral direction Y. A Specifically, measurements were taken between the two main arms at a distance of 70 degrees. Distance d 3,A For example, between 1300mm and 1800mm.

[0115] like Figure 6 As can be seen, each of the two rear shock absorbers 32 is fixed to one of the rear suspension arms 30.

[0116] For example, each of the two rear shock absorbers 32 is fixed to the rear end of the main arm 70 of the corresponding rear suspension arm 30.

[0117] Specifically, the two rear shock absorbers 32 correspond to the left rear shock absorber fixed to the left rear suspension arm and the right rear shock absorber fixed to the right rear suspension arm.

[0118] Each of the two rear shock absorbers 32, for example along the lateral direction Y A They are separated from each other.

[0119] In particular, the two rear shock absorbers 32 are spaced, for example, between 1200mm and 1700mm apart. 4,A This distance, especially along the lateral direction Y A Measured.

[0120] More specifically, in the first manufacturing configuration (vehicle 12A), each rear shock absorber 32 is arranged on the inner side of the corresponding longitudinal member 38, such as Figure 6 Visible.

[0121] The instrument panel unit 31A of the first vehicle 12A includes a general instrument panel element group 35, and preferably includes at least one of the following: a first edge element 36A or two first structural elements 39A.

[0122] Preferably, the universal instrument panel component group 35 includes an instrument panel cross member 42.

[0123] like Figure 2 As shown, the instrument panel transverse member 42, for example, is along the lateral direction Y A It extends between the right and left ends.

[0124] In particular, the instrument panel cross member 42 is a structural element located behind the dashboard of the first vehicle 12A and serves as an anchor point for various electrical and mechanical components located behind the dashboard, such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, airbags, on-board instruments, etc.

[0125] The dashboard cross member 42 is made of steel, for example.

[0126] Preferably, the dashboard unit 31A includes at least one first edge element 36A, and more preferably includes a plurality of first edge elements. Each first edge element 36A is particularly selected from the door panel and the dashboard.

[0127] Advantageously, the instrument panel unit 31A includes two structural elements 39A: a left structural element and a right structural element.

[0128] Each first structural element 39A is, for example, fixed to the dashboard cross member 42.

[0129] More specifically, the two first structural elements 39A are A-pillars, that is, structural elements that support the windshield of the first vehicle 12A.

[0130] The second vehicle 12B is configured according to the second manufacturing configuration.

[0131] Example of the second vehicle 12B in Figure 1 and Figure 2 As can be seen in, and in Figure 4 It is visible in the central part.

[0132] Preferably, the second vehicle 12B is a vehicle of a second size, particularly larger than the size of the first vehicle 12A, such as... Figure 1 As shown.

[0133] The second vehicle 12B (in the second configuration) has a greater width P than the first vehicle 12A (in the first configuration). B .

[0134] In particular, the width P of the first vehicle 12A A The width P of the second vehicle 12B B The difference Δ is, for example, between 80mm and 160mm, preferably between 100mm and 130mm, and is substantially equal to 120mm.

[0135] For example, along the lateral direction Y B Measured width P B Between 2000mm and 2100mm, and more specifically, roughly equal to 2040mm.

[0136] Width P B For example, the width corresponding to the fender, specifically the maximum value between the width across the front fender and the width across the rear fender.

[0137] For example, the length L of the second vehicle 12B B (along the longitudinal direction X) B (Measured between the front end 14B and the rear end 16B of the second vehicle 12B) between 5000mm and 6000mm, and more specifically between 5300mm and 5600mm.

[0138] For example, the height H of the second vehicle 12B B (along the vertical direction Z) B (Measured) Between 2200mm and 2800mm.

[0139] The second vehicle 12B includes a central unit 25B, and preferably includes at least one of the following: a front unit 27B, a rear unit 29B, or an instrument panel unit 31B.

[0140] The central unit 25B of the second vehicle 12B is arranged, for example, in the center of the second vehicle 12B, particularly along the longitudinal direction X. B The center.

[0141] The central unit 25B includes: a general central component group 26, two side skirts 28, and two interface components 80B.

[0142] Optionally, the central unit 25B of the second vehicle 12B also includes a second floor 37B.

[0143] The general central component group 26 is the same in the first manufacturing configuration and the second manufacturing configuration.

[0144] In other words, the components of the general central component group 26 are the same in the second vehicle 12B as in the first vehicle 12A, and in particular, are arranged in the same manner.

[0145] More specifically, in the second vehicle 12B, the universal central component assembly 26 includes two longitudinal members 38 and a battery 40, which are the same as those described above for the first vehicle 12A and arranged in the same manner.

[0146] Preferably, in the second vehicle 12B, the general central component group 26 further includes a transverse member 45, which is the same as and arranged in the same manner as described above for the first vehicle 12A.

[0147] In the second vehicle 12B, the two side skirts 28 are preferably the same as those used in the first vehicle 12A, but are laterally offset by the interface 80B.

[0148] Each side skirt 28 of the second vehicle 12B is offset laterally by a distance δ relative to the side skirt of the first vehicle 12A.

[0149] The distance δ is, for example, the width P of the first vehicle 12A. A Second vehicle 12B width P B Half of the difference Δ between them.

[0150] In particular, in the second configuration (second vehicle 12B), the two side skirts 28 are positioned along the lateral direction Y. A The spacing is greater than in the first configuration, thanks in particular to the interface element 80B.

[0151] like Figure 4 As can be seen, the inner surface 62 of each side skirt 28 extends, for example, to a distance d from the outer surface 50 of the corresponding longitudinal member 38, particularly from the flat portion 57. 2,B At a distance of d 2,B The corresponding distance d greater than that of the first vehicle 12A 2,A .

[0152] These two distances d 2,B The difference between them is, for example, equal to the distance δ, and in particular equal to the width P of the first vehicle 12A. A The width P of the second vehicle 12B B Half of the difference Δ between them.

[0153] In the second manufacturing configuration (second vehicle 12B), one of the interface pieces 80B, referred to as the right interface piece, is fixed between the right side skirt 28 and the right end face 52 of the battery 40, as shown below. Figure 4 As shown at the bottom. Another interface piece 80B, referred to as the left interface piece, is fixed between the left side skirt and the left end face of the battery 40.

[0154] For example, each of the two interface pieces 80B is a bracket.

[0155] More specifically, each of the two interface pieces 80B is fixed between the corresponding side skirt 28 and the corresponding end face of the battery 40.

[0156] For example, each of the two interface pieces 80B is fixed between the inner surface 62 of the corresponding side skirt 28 and the fixing ear 58 of the corresponding end face of the battery 40, such as Figure 4 As shown.

[0157] Preferably, each of the two interface pieces 80B is secured to the battery 40 and the corresponding side skirt 28 by a fixing device 68 (such as a screw).

[0158] Preferably, the second floor 37B is specifically fixed to the longitudinal member 38 and is different from the first floor 37A of the first vehicle 12A.

[0159] For example, the second floor 37B is wider than the first floor 37A.

[0160] In particular, the difference in width between the first floor 37A and the second floor 37B is approximately equal to the width P of the first vehicle 12A. A The width P of the second vehicle 12B B The difference Δ between them.

[0161] For example, the second floor 37B defines a step 78B, which is located at the door and is specifically fixed to the corresponding side skirt 28.

[0162] For example, the front unit 27B of the second vehicle 12B is arranged at the front of the second vehicle 12B.

[0163] In particular, the front unit 27B includes a general front element group 44, and preferably includes two second front suspension arms 34B.

[0164] The general front component group 44 is the same in the first manufacturing configuration and the second manufacturing configuration.

[0165] In other words, the components of the general front component group 44 are identical in both the second vehicle 12B and the first vehicle 12A, and are arranged in the same manner.

[0166] Preferably, the front unit 27B of the second vehicle 12B includes two second front suspension arms, which are different from the first front suspension arm 34A of the first vehicle 12A.

[0167] Preferably, the second front suspension arm is longer than the first front suspension arm 34A.

[0168] For example, the two second front suspension arms along the lateral direction Y B They are separated from each other.

[0169] In particular, the two second front suspension arms correspond to the left front suspension arm and the right front suspension arm.

[0170] For example, each of the two second front suspension arms is a double wishbone.

[0171] Alternatively, each of the two second front suspension arms includes a vertical Z-axis. B One is positioned above the other's upper and lower arms.

[0172] Each upper arm and lower arm preferably includes, for example, a lateral arm fixed to the hub of the corresponding front wheel and a tilt arm forming a non-zero angle with the lateral arm.

[0173] The branch of the second front suspension arm is preferably longer than the branch of the first front suspension arm.

[0174] The rear unit 29B of the second vehicle 12B is arranged, for example, at the rear of the second vehicle 12B.

[0175] In particular, the rear unit 29B of the second vehicle 12B includes a universal rear element group 33, and preferably includes at least one of two rear suspension arms 30 or two rear shock absorbers 32.

[0176] The general rear component group 33 is the same in the first manufacturing configuration and the second manufacturing configuration.

[0177] In other words, the components of the universal rear component group 33 are the same in the second vehicle 12B and the first vehicle 12A, and are arranged in the same manner.

[0178] In the second vehicle 12B, the two rear suspension arms 30 are preferably the same as those used in the first vehicle 12A, but are offset laterally.

[0179] Each rear suspension arm 30 of the second vehicle 12B is laterally offset by a distance δ relative to the rear suspension arm of the first vehicle 12A.

[0180] In particular, in the second configuration (second vehicle 12B), the two rear suspension arms 30 are along the lateral direction Y A The distance between them is greater than in the first configuration, which is especially thanks to the interface component 80B.

[0181] In the second configuration (second vehicle 12B), the two rear suspension arms 30 are spaced apart by, for example, by a distance d. 3,B (along the horizontal direction Y)A (Measured), distance d 3,B The corresponding distance d greater than that of the first vehicle 12A 3,A The difference between these two distances is, for example, equal to distance δ, and specifically equal to the width P of the first vehicle 12A. A The width P of the second vehicle 12B B Half of the difference Δ between them.

[0182] In the second vehicle 12B, the two rear shock absorbers 32 are preferably the same as those used in the first vehicle 12A, but are offset laterally.

[0183] Each rear shock absorber 32 of the second vehicle 12B is offset laterally by a distance δ relative to the rear shock absorber of the first vehicle 12A.

[0184] In particular, in the second configuration (second vehicle 12B), the two rear shock absorbers 32 are spaced apart by a distance d, for example. 4,B (especially along the lateral direction Y) B (Measured), distance d 4,B The corresponding distance d greater than that of the first vehicle 12A 4,A The difference between these two distances is, for example, equal to distance δ, and specifically equal to the width P of the first vehicle 12A. A The width P of the second vehicle 12B B Half of the difference Δ between them.

[0185] More specifically, in the second manufacturing configuration (second vehicle 12B), each rear shock absorber 32 is arranged on the outside of the corresponding longitudinal member 38.

[0186] Preferably, the dashboard unit 31B of the second vehicle 12B includes at least one second edge element 36B, and preferably includes a plurality of second edge elements 36B, in particular the second edge element is different from the first edge element 36A of the first vehicle 12A.

[0187] For example, the width of each second edge element 36B is greater than the width of the corresponding first edge element 36A. Each second edge element 36B is specifically selected from door panels and dashboards.

[0188] Advantageously, the instrument panel unit 31B also includes two second structural elements 39B, specifically a second left structural element and a second right structural element.

[0189] The two second structural elements 39B of the instrument panel unit 31B of the second vehicle 12B are particularly different from the first structural element 39A of the first vehicle 12A.

[0190] For example, each second structural element 39B is wider than the corresponding first structural element 39A.

[0191] More specifically, both second structural elements 39B are A-pillars.

[0192] The manufacturing processes for vehicles 12A and 12B will now be described.

[0193] First, the process includes the step of selecting a first manufacturing configuration or a second manufacturing configuration.

[0194] In one case, the first manufacturing configuration was selected.

[0195] The method includes the step of supplying components, in particular: a general central component assembly 26, two side skirts 28, and preferably a first floor 37A.

[0196] Preferably, this step also includes supplying a general front component assembly 44, and, for example, two first front suspension arms 34A.

[0197] Preferably, this step also includes supplying a universal rear component assembly 33, and at least one of, for example, two rear suspension arms 30 and two rear shock absorbers 32.

[0198] Preferably, this step further includes providing a general instrument panel element group 35, and at least one of, for example, a first instrument panel element 36A and two first structural elements 39A.

[0199] The process then includes the step of assembling the provided components, in particular, to obtain a first vehicle 12A in a first configuration.

[0200] For example, this assembly step includes securing the side skirt 28 to the battery 40 to form the central unit 25A of the first vehicle 12A.

[0201] In particular, during this step, one of the side skirts 28 is fixed to the right end face 52 of the battery 40, and the other side skirt 28 is fixed to the left end face of the battery 40.

[0202] For example, this assembly step also includes securing the first floor 37A to the longitudinal member 38.

[0203] Preferably, this assembly step further includes securing the two first front suspension arms 34A, specifically forming the front unit 27A of the first vehicle 12A. For example, the assembly step also includes securing the two rear suspension arms 30 such that the two rear suspension arms are positioned along the lateral direction Y... A Distance d between each other 3,A .

[0204] Preferably, the assembly step further includes securing the two rear shock absorbers 32 to the rear suspension arm 30, for example, thereby along the lateral direction Y. A Spacing distance d4,A .

[0205] Preferably, the assembly step further includes securing the first edge element 36A, particularly to the dashboard cross member 42.

[0206] Preferably, the assembly step further includes fixing the first structural element 39A.

[0207] Advantageously, the process also includes the step of adjusting the positions of the front and rear wheels, and in particular the camber angles of the front and rear wheels.

[0208] Therefore, the first vehicle 12A in the first manufacturing configuration is obtained.

[0209] In another case, a second manufacturing configuration is selected during the selection step.

[0210] In this case, the method also includes the step of supplying components, in particular: a general central component assembly 26, two side skirts 28, two interface pieces 80B, and preferably a second floor 37B.

[0211] Preferably, this step also includes supplying a universal front component assembly 44 and two second front suspension arms 34B.

[0212] Preferably, this step also includes supplying a universal rear component assembly 33, and at least one of, for example, two rear suspension arms 30 and two rear shock absorbers 32.

[0213] Preferably, this step also includes providing a general instrument panel element group 35, and at least one of, for example, a second edge element 36B or two second structural elements 39B.

[0214] The process then includes the step of assembling the supplied components together, in particular to obtain the second vehicle 12B in the second configuration.

[0215] For example, this assembly step includes securing the interface piece 80B between the side skirt 28 and the battery 40 to form the central unit 25B of the second vehicle 12B.

[0216] In particular, during this step, one of the interface pieces 80B is fixed between the right side skirt 28 and the right end face 52 of the battery 40, and the other interface piece 80B is fixed between the left side skirt and the left end face of the battery 40.

[0217] For example, the assembly step also includes securing the second floor 37B, particularly to the longitudinal member 38.

[0218] Preferably, the assembly step further includes fixing the two second front suspension arms, in particular forming the front unit 27B of the second vehicle 12B.

[0219] For example, the assembly step also includes fixing the two rear suspension arms 30, for example, such that the two rear suspension arms are aligned in the lateral direction Y. B Spacing distance d 3,B .

[0220] Preferably, the assembly step further includes securing the two rear shock absorbers 32 to the rear suspension arm 30, for example, thereby along the lateral direction Y. B Spacing distance d 4,B .

[0221] Preferably, the assembly step further includes securing one or more second edge elements 36B, particularly to the dashboard cross member 42.

[0222] Preferably, the assembly step further includes fixing the second structural element 39B.

[0223] Advantageously, the process also includes the step of adjusting the position of the front and rear wheels, and in particular the camber angle of the front and rear wheels.

[0224] Therefore, the second vehicle 12B was obtained under the second manufacturing configuration.

[0225] This manufacturing process is particularly advantageous.

[0226] In particular, this process allows for the production of two different widths of vehicles, 12A and 12B, using a large number of common components.

[0227] This process makes the first vehicle 12A and the second vehicle 12B more economical.

Claims

1. A process for manufacturing vehicles (12A, 12B), wherein the vehicles (12A, 12B) include a central unit (25A, 25B), the central unit comprising: a) A general-purpose central component group (26), said general-purpose central component group comprising at least: i. Two longitudinal members (38), each longitudinal member along the longitudinal direction (X) A X B Extending, the two longitudinal members (38) extend along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (X). A X B ) in the horizontal direction (Y) A Y B ) spaced apart, and ii. Battery (40), which is arranged below the two longitudinal members (38) and along the lateral direction (Y). A Y B It extends between the right end face (52) and the left end face, and b) Two side skirts (28), the two side skirts being along the lateral direction (Y) A Y B () spaced apart; The process is characterized by comprising the step of selecting a configuration of the vehicle between a first manufacturing configuration and a second manufacturing configuration. Wherein, the width (P) of the vehicle (12A) in the first manufacturing configuration A The width (P) of the vehicle (12B) in the second manufacturing configuration is less than that of the vehicle (12B) in the second manufacturing configuration. B The width (P) A P B ) is along the said lateral direction (Y) A Y B ) measured, The universal central component group (26) is the same in both the first and second manufacturing configurations. In the first manufacturing configuration, one of the side skirts (28) is fixed to the right end face (52) of the battery (40), and the other side skirt (28) is fixed to the left end face of the battery (40). The vehicle (12B) in the second manufacturing configuration further includes two interface pieces (80B), one of which is fixed between one of the side skirts (28) and the right end face (52) of the battery (40), and the other of which is fixed between the other of the side skirts (28) and the left end face of the battery (40).

2. The process according to claim 1, characterized in that, Between the first manufacturing configuration and the second manufacturing configuration, the difference in the width of the vehicle is between 80 mm and 160 mm.

3. The process according to claim 1, characterized in that, Between the first manufacturing configuration and the second manufacturing configuration, the difference in the width of the vehicle is between 100 mm and 130 mm.

4. The process according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the aforementioned interface components (80B) is a bracket.

5. The process according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vehicles (12A, 12B) include rear units (29A, 29B) that include a universal rear component assembly (33) and two rear suspension arms (30). The universal rear component group (33) is identical in both the first manufacturing configuration and the second manufacturing configuration. The two rear suspension arms (30) are along the lateral direction (Y) A Y B The two rear suspension arms (30) are spaced apart, and the distance between the two rear suspension arms (30) in the first manufacturing configuration is smaller than the distance between the two rear suspension arms in the second manufacturing configuration.

6. The process according to claim 5, characterized in that, The rear unit (29A, 29B) includes two rear shock absorbers (32), each of which is fixed to one of the rear suspension arms. In the first manufacturing configuration, the distance between the two rear shock absorbers is less than the distance between the two rear shock absorbers in the second manufacturing configuration.

7. The process according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vehicles (12A, 12B) include front units (27A, 27B) having a common front component group (44), which is identical in both the first and second manufacturing configurations. In the first manufacturing configuration, the front unit (27A) includes two first front suspension arms (34A), and In the second manufacturing configuration, the front unit (27B) includes two second front suspension arms (34B) that are longer than the first front suspension arm (34A).

8. The process according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vehicles (12A, 12B) include instrument panel units (31A, 31B), each instrument panel unit including a universal instrument panel element group (35), which is identical in both the first and second manufacturing configurations. The instrument panel component group (35) includes a laterally extending instrument panel cross member (42).

9. The process according to claim 8, characterized in that, The dashboard unit (31A) in the first manufacturing configuration includes at least one first structural element (39A) fixed to the dashboard cross member (42), and the dashboard unit (31B) in the second manufacturing configuration includes at least one second structural element (39B) fixed to the same dashboard cross member (42), the second structural element (39B) being wider than the first structural element (39A).

10. A trainset (10), comprising: - A first vehicle (12A) manufactured according to the process for manufacturing a vehicle as described in claim 1, wherein the first vehicle (12A) is in the first manufacturing configuration, and - A second vehicle (12B) manufactured according to the process for manufacturing a vehicle as described in claim 1, wherein the second vehicle (12B) is in the second manufacturing configuration; The width (P) of the first vehicle (12A) A The width of the second vehicle (12B) is less than that of the second vehicle (P). B ).

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