| Ford B3 platform | |
| Aka: | Ford B2E platform Mazda DY platform Mazda DE platform |
| Manufacturer: | Ford Motor Company |
| Production: | 2002–present |
| Predecessor: | Ford B platform Mazda D platform |
| Class: | Subcompact platform (B) |
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. 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.
The first iteration of this platform was known as the B3. Vehicles utilising this platform include:
The new B2E platform was designed and developed as Ford’s global B-segment platform. It is the first B-platform developed by Ford's global product development process.[2] [3]
This global platform has been used since 2008 on the following vehicles: