Development of complex customized machine tools with low manufacturing costs is a challenging problem for many machine tool manufacturers in today’s competitive marketplace. In this research, a novel design method based on axiomatic design and sensitivity design structure matrix is introduced for identification of adaptable product platform. In order to identify the adaptable product platform, customer requirements are first classified into different groups based on K-means clustering method through genetic algorithm. axiomatic design is used to build the mathematical model for identification of the non-adaptable platform parameters, and sensitivity design structure matrix is employed to separate non-adaptable parameters in non-adaptable platform modules and adaptable parameters in adaptable platform modules. A bridge-type double-gantry boring–milling machining center, XXX-2890, is developed based on the existing heavy-duty gantry milling machines to demonstrate the effectiveness of the developed method.