Geely Announces First Self-Developed Modular Architecture, Will Debut On SX11 Crossover

Following the success of the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) that was jointly-developed with Volvo, Geely has announced the development of its first independently designed modular architecture.

Dubbed BMA for B-segment Modular Architecture, the platform will be used to underpin an assortment of compact models including sedans, wagons, crossovers and MPVs. The first model based on the platform is codenamed the SX11 and it will be launched later this year.

The company was coy on specifics, but confirmed the crossover will be offered with a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine that produces 177 hp (132 kW / 179 PS) and 188 lb-ft (255 Nm) of torque. The engine was developed with the assistance of Volvo and it is currently used on the XC40 as well as the Lynk & CO 01.

While Geely only confirmed one engine for the SX11, the BMA platform has been designed to accommodate a handful of other powertrains including plug-in hybrid and mild hybrid units. Furthermore, the company confirmed vehicles on the platform can be outfitted with a turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine as well as a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine.

Geely didn’t say much about the platform itself, but compared it to Toyota’s TNGA and Volkswagen’s MQB platforms. The platform will be used by Geely’s “overseas subsidiary brands” and “production based on BMA will be launched in EU, Eastern Europe, Africa, South America, Middle East and Southeast Asia.”

Getting back to the SX11, images off the crossover surfaced in February and previous reports have suggested the model measures 4,330 mm (170.4 inches) long, 1,800 mm (70.8 inches) wide and 1,609 mm (63.3 inches) tall with a wheelbase spanning 2,600 mm (102.3 inches). That makes the crossover slightly larger than the Honda HR-V.