Revolutionizing the World of Automotive
Did you know that 3D printed vehicles are becoming a reality? The concept of additive manufacturing is now making its mark in the transportation industry, with numerous projects focusing on 3D printed vehicles, from cars to motorcycles and even public transport buses. This transformative production method is revolutionizing traditional manufacturing and reshaping the way we live. In this article, we will explore some of the most remarkable 3D printed vehicles that have already hit the roads and how they are changing the automotive landscape.
Aston Martin's DBR22
Luxury automaker Aston Martin has embraced additive manufacturing for the development of one of its vehicles, the DBR22. Celebrating the tenth anniversary of their division named Q, the DBR22 features a 3D printed rear subchassis made of interconnected aluminum parts. By utilizing this technology, Aston Martin reduced the vehicle's weight without compromising its rigidity. The completed car was showcased at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in California, showcasing an iconic and innovative sports car.
BigRep's Nera Electric Motorcycle
German company BigRep has unveiled the Nera, a 3D printed electric motorcycle designed by their innovation lab NOWlab. The Nera boasts impressive features such as airless tires, a flexible bumper, and a futuristic design. The motorcycle's components, except for electronics, are all 3D printed using BigRep's Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology with PLA, Pro FLEX (TPU-based flexible material), and ProHT (high-temperature resistant material). The Nera demonstrates the creative possibilities and capabilities of 3D printing in engineering.
Peugeot 308 with 3D Printed Accessories
French automaker Peugeot has been utilizing additive manufacturing for several years, including their latest Peugeot 308. Rather than printing components, Peugeot employs 3D printing for various accessories needed in the car. Through collaboration with HP Inc, Mäder, and ERPRO, they produced innovative accessories like cup holders, sunglass holders, phone holders, and card holders, focusing on ensuring a smooth and pleasant tactile experience. The HP Multi Jet Fusion technology and flexible polymer material played crucial roles in the manufacturing process.
Toyota's Partnership with Stratasys
Toyota Racing Development (TRD) joined forces with Stratasys, a leading 3D printing company, to incorporate 3D printing in producing parts for the new Toyota GR86 for the GR American Cup competition. Stratasys' Fortus® 450mc, F370, and F370®CR 3D printers were integrated into TRD's facilities in North Carolina and California. This partnership aimed to print end-use parts, including a hood air intake using FDM® Nylon 12CF. Additionally, a GR86 clamp was printed using Stratasys' High Yield PA11 material through their H350™ 3D printer based on SAF™ technology.
VIBA's Jane Motorcycle
French company VIBA embraces additive manufacturing in their innovative motorcycles, such as the Jane model. The motorcycle features a 3D printed aluminum fuel tank, manufactured using a laser fusion 3D printer from SLM Solutions. Its lattice structure helps reduce weight while maintaining sufficient rigidity. VIBA also incorporated 3D printed fenders and front carriers in the Jane motorcycle.
General Motors' Cadillac Celestiq
General Motors (GM) leverages additive manufacturing extensively, and the Cadillac Celestiq exemplifies their commitment. The luxurious vehicle incorporates over 100 3D printed components, both polymer and metal, making it one of the most 3D printed vehicles produced by GM. The investment of $81 million in this project demonstrates the potential of 3D printing in the automotive industry.
Porsche's 3D Printed GT2 RS Pistons
Porsche has been at the forefront of additive manufacturing, using it for prototyping and producing final parts. Notably, Porsche 3D printed pistons for their flagship model, the GT2 RS. Collaborating with Trumpf and Mahle, the German automaker created pistons that are 10% lighter and feature cooling channels in the crown, a design impossible with traditional methods. The reduced weight leads to improved efficiency and combustion optimization.
BMW iX5 Hydrogen
BMW's iX5 Hydrogen incorporates numerous 3D printed parts, reflecting its sustainability-driven vision, which produces only water vapor emissions. The modern Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) combines innovative hydrogen-electric propulsion technology with BMW's signature luxury and versatility. The use of 3D printed components enhances the vehicle's performance and adds to its appeal.
Ducati's 3D Printed MotoGP Motorcycles
Ducati Corse, the MotoGP team of the Italian motorcycle manufacturer Ducati, partnered with Roboze to employ additive manufacturing in their Desmosedici GP series of motorcycles. 3D printed polymer components, such as external covers and thermal shields, replaced their metal counterparts. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the world of MotoGP, demonstrating the potential for 3D printing in high-performance racing motorcycles.
Jeep Wrangler Customization with 3D Printing
Jeep enthusiasts can now personalize their Wrangler JL and JK models, as well as JT Gladiator, thanks to Campsite Carbon's 3D printed carbon fiber parts. Campsite Carbon utilizes 3D printing technology to create innovative exterior, interior, and under-the-hood accessories for the iconic Jeep Wrangler. These customizable accessories are easily installed and can even be designed by customers themselves using open-source 3D files.
Ford Maverick's Creative Customization
Ford's Maverick truck offers its customers creative customization opportunities through its Integrated Ford Tough Systems (FITS). FITS includes rear console slots and storage compartments that can be personalized with 3D printed accessories. Customers can choose and install various accessories using 3D printing technology, making the Ford Maverick a truly unique vehicle.
Divergent's Blade: The All-3D Printed Car
In 2015, the California-based startup Divergent unveiled The Blade, a concept car that showcased a 3D printed chassis. Later, Divergent forged a partnership with Peugeot to amplify their additive manufacturing capacity. As time passed, they progressively elevated the number of 3D printed components within The Blade, ultimately adopting 3D printing for the production of all its parts. Divergent also took the initiative to develop specialized software and implement an automated assembly system to facilitate the design of these components. Bolstered by a recent funding injection of $160 million, Divergent has concrete plans to sustain the production of this pioneering car model and simultaneously broaden its global manufacturing capabilities.
In conclusion, The automotive industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation, thanks to the rapid adoption of 3D printing technology. This revolutionary shift is evident across a wide spectrum of vehicles, spanning from luxurious cars to sleek motorcycles. The integration of 3D printing is enabling manufacturers, such as Aston Martin, BigRep, Peugeot, Toyota, VIBA, General Motors, Porsche, BMW, Ducati, Jeep, Ford, and Divergent, to embark on a journey of innovation, resulting in designs that not only reduce weight but also enhance overall performance.
Pioneering companies drive this transformative wave, reshaping the conventional manufacturing landscape with visionary zeal. These innovative trailblazers actively push past erstwhile boundaries, ushering in an era abundant in design possibilities that know no bounds. As additive manufacturing's potential evolves further, we anticipate a forthcoming cascade of groundbreaking vehicles gracing our roads. These avant-garde creations stand poised to redefine mobility's core essence, forging a path toward an exhilarating and transformative future.
