First 3D printed car

The winner of the the first 3D Printed Car Design Challenge has been announced. Run by US car manufacturer Local Motors Inc, the winning vehicle is named Strati and is the brainchild of Italian Michele Anoé.

Over 200 entries were submitted to the competition, but the winning prototype can be seen in the images below. The Strati was printed live in 44 hours between 8-13 September and is currently on show at the The International Manufacturing Technology Show 2014 in Chicago, Illinois.

The entire framework and chassis is 3D printed with standard components like the battery, motor, wiring and suspension made from the usual materials.

After its assembly and initial showcase, the Strati will ne housed at AMT’s Emerging Technology Center (ETC). The hope is thta the Strati can be a pioneer in car production and that 3D cars could soon be the modern way.

Credit Local Motors

Credit Local Motors

Credit Local Motors

Credit Local Motors

The tech behind the ‘Strati’

Internal Strut Frame
Weight saving vertical struts within the frame

Aeroblade
Supports external surfaces due to 3D printing’s inability to bridge horizontal gaps

3DPCX
Part of the structural support spine in the passenger compartment

LM Supernova
Lightweight interior design method

Mirage
3D printed crumple zones

LM e-Spider
Convertible roof system

Credit Local Motors

Credit Local Motors

Credit Local Motors

Credit Local Motors

Credit Local Motors

Credit Local Motors