The More Models You Have, the Faster You Die? Global Automakers Are Abandoning the Sea-of-Cars Strategy - 36Kr

Global automakers are trimming model lineups, simplifying trim levels, and shifting to shared platforms.

Volkswagen, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Ford, and major Chinese brands are all consolidating models and streamlining brands.

Inefficient or overlapping brands and models are being discontinued or withdrawn from some markets.

The move is designed to cut R&D and manufacturing costs, but it may also raise quality risks and weaken brand differentiation.