PRINTING CARS

A future that isn't transformative is merely an extension of the present. It's why you don't see innovation every other day, but when you do, the change is imminent.

- Anand Mohan

In the automotive industry, technologies take years to perfect, and development times are long. With electrification, times are changing though. Development and new product introduction spans are reducing considerably, and to keep up pace, the industry is adopting some very interesting new tech that found its purpose in the automotive world. 3D printing has quietly emerged as a transformative force in the automotive industry. Once relegated to the realm of futuristic technologies, the ability to 'print' complex, functional components has now become an essential tool for luxury and performance carmakers. This technology is not just a marvel of modern engineering but a revolution that is reshaping the pillars of automotive design: innovation, customisation, and sustainability.

A NEW ERA IN AUTOMOTIVE DESIGN

The journey of 3D printing into the automotive space began as an experiment—a way to create prototypes with speed and efficiency. But what was once a tool for testing has matured into a powerhouse of production. In today's automotive market, 3D printing is used not only to craft lightweight components for hypercars but also to develop bespoke interiors for the most discerning clientele. As the technology has advanced, its applications have expanded dramatically, creating ripples across the industry and challenging traditional manufacturing methods. In design studios, it is now possible to build a full prototype in a single day instead of weeks of lead time when it is sent to a modeller. This not only reduces development time but also keeps secretive design development under wraps.

Some applications

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