Local Motors has unveiled a 3D printed car that it hopes will be available for sale to the public next year. It’s not a normal car; rather this is a small car that is designed for cruising around neighborhoods rather than taking you on long trips. The vehicle would be printed using a 3D printer on demand and buyers could customize the car with their own 3D printed parts and different colors.
Customization and Personalization
One of the most exciting aspects of this 3D printed car is the level of customization it offers. Buyers will have the opportunity to personalize their vehicles in ways that traditional car manufacturers simply can’t match. From the color of the exterior to the design of the interior components, the possibilities are nearly endless. Imagine being able to choose the exact shade of paint, the texture of the seats, and even the shape of the dashboard. This level of personalization could revolutionize the automotive industry, making each car a unique reflection of its owner.
Local Motors hopes to sell the car for between $18,000 and $30,000 with a version capable of cruising the highways available by the end of 2016. That is a lot of money for a vehicle that isn’t currently a fully-fledged car. You can buy many new cars in that price range and lots of very nice used cars. However, the price point reflects the innovative technology and the bespoke nature of the vehicle. Additionally, as 3D printing technology advances and becomes more cost-effective, the price of these cars could potentially decrease, making them more accessible to a broader audience.
Design and Engineering
Kevin Lo, the winner of a design contest that Local Motors held, created the design of the car. Lo is an engineer for HP working in Vancouver, Washington. His design was chosen for its practicality and aesthetic appeal. Local Motors have previously shown off a bug-eyed looking car that reminded a bit of a dune buggy from the 70s called the Strati. Lo’s design looks much more like a normal car than the Strati did. This new design aims to blend the futuristic aspects of 3D printing with the familiar elements of traditional car design, making it more appealing to a wider audience.
The engineering behind this 3D printed car is equally impressive. The vehicle is constructed using a combination of lightweight materials and advanced manufacturing techniques. This not only makes the car more efficient but also more environmentally friendly. The reduced weight means better fuel efficiency and lower emissions, aligning with the growing trend towards sustainable transportation solutions.
Future Prospects and Challenges
While the concept of a 3D printed car is undoubtedly exciting, there are several challenges that Local Motors will need to address before these vehicles can become mainstream. One of the primary concerns is safety. Traditional cars undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet safety standards, and 3D printed cars will need to meet these same standards. Local Motors is committed to ensuring that their vehicles are not only innovative but also safe for consumers.
Another challenge is the infrastructure required to support 3D printed cars. This includes everything from the availability of 3D printing materials to the development of service centers equipped to handle repairs and maintenance for these unique vehicles. Local Motors is already working on partnerships and collaborations to address these issues, but it will take time to build the necessary ecosystem.
Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of 3D printed cars are immense. They offer a level of customization and personalization that is unparalleled in the automotive industry. They also have the potential to be more environmentally friendly and cost-effective in the long run. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more innovations in this space, making the dream of owning a 3D printed car a reality for more people.
Via USA Today
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