3D Printing

Automotive

Industry Insights & Trends

How additive manufacturing is impacting the automotive industry

Automotive insights from RAPID/TCT 2024.

At this year’s industrial additive manufacturing event in Los Angeles, automotive applications were strongly represented by equipment manufacturers, material suppliers and software vendors.

There is a definite emphasis on mass customization, with many experts predicting that additive manufacturing will be the key to profitable production of shorter runs of more specialized products, often based on a common automotive platform. 

Specialty autos that were formally contracted out for completion, such as Roush and Shelby Mustangs, may move in-house as additive manufacturing technology and capability for short runs, without added costs. 


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Below is the extended version of the video, featuring additional and longer interviews for a more in-depth exploration of the topic:

Written by

James Anderton

Jim Anderton is the Director of Content for ENGINEERING.com. Mr. Anderton was formerly editor of Canadian Metalworking Magazine and has contributed to a wide range of print and on-line publications, including Design Engineering, Canadian Plastics, Service Station and Garage Management, Autovision, and the National Post. He also brings prior industry experience in quality and part design for a Tier One automotive supplier.