Your Next Ford Mustang Spoiler Could Be 3D Printed
Ford continues to explore the possibilities of 3D printing.
The American automaker has been using 3D printing for a few years now, saying that the technology helps expedite prototyping and even used it for its new race car in 2015. Ford also has an online 3D print shop and now it’s the first automaker to pilot the Stratasys Infinite Build 3D printer. The company is exploring how large one-piece auto parts, like car spoilers, could be printed not just for prototyping, but also future production vehicles. It believes 3D printing could be used for components at low volumes, like Ford Performance vehicles or personalized car parts.
SEE ALSO: Ford’s New Race Car Powered by 3D-Printed Parts
Ford says parts that are printed can be lighter in weight than their traditionally manufactured counterparts, and may even help improve fuel efficiency as a result. The new 3D print system is located at Ford’s Research and Innovation Center in Dearborn and is capable of printing car parts of practically any shape or length.
“With the Infinite Build technology, we are now able to print large tools, fixtures, and components, making us more nimble in design iterations,” said Ellen Lee, Ford technical leader for additive manufacturing research. “We’re excited to have early access to Stratasys’ new technology in order to help steer the development of large scale printing for automotive applications and requirements.”
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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