In February 2016 Volkswagen introduced the MLB based Phideon luxury sedan built and sold uniquely in the Chinese market.

The only things that are non-variable are the pedal box, firewall, and front wheel placement, as well as the windscreen angle; other than this, the vehicle can be stretched and shaped to fit any body style, size range, or drivetrain required.

As well as reducing weight, the concept allows diverse models, including those from the company's various brands, to be manufactured at the same plant,[5] further saving cost.

[4] Ulrich Hackenberg [de], former[6] chief of Volkswagen’s Research and Development, called MB a "strategic weapon.

"[7] The British magazine, Car, said "the idea heralds a return to basic principles of mass production in an industry where over the last 100 years, complexity has spiralled out of control.