Additive manufacturing aligns with the needs of almost any industry. Automotive is not an exception, driving advances in vehicle design. Mass production is now a reality in additive manufacturing (or 3D printing) as the technologies are continuously advancing to a point where end-use parts can be produced of both metal and plastic materials, ready to be used in real-world applications.

Some of the best-known benefits of additive manufacturing align precisely with what automotive OEMs are looking to deliver:

When new models come out annually, any stage of the development cycle that can be reduced is a leg up on the competition. Today, 3D printing is speeding design and prototyping processes, creating unique tools for each production line, and making an increasing number of end-use parts for standard and customized vehicles, as well as on-demand spare parts manufacture. The large volumes of parts the automotive industry produces annually combined with the fast prototyping and production capabilities of 3D printing create the perfect match.

3D printing in automotive manufacturing is on the rise, with big names putting the technology to use for decades and new applications developing in mass production. From 3D printing prototypes to full-on custom 3D printed cars, automakers now realize that 3D printing will unlock the limitless potential within their production process.