Local Motors relies on 3D printing to produce its vehicles

3D printing plays multiple roles at the company’s Knoxville microfactory, from prototyping to the production of parts for autonomous vehicles.

Local Motors relies on 3D printing to produce its vehicles—specifically, the Big Area Additive Manufacturing (BAAM) technology that builds parts for its vehicles in carbon fiber-filled ABS. The Olli self-driving vehicle, for instance, features two large top and bottom pieces in its construction that are produced on the BAAM. The technology allows for toolingless manufacturing that saves material costs and speeds time to production.

But part production isn’t the only way the company is using—and advancing—3D printing technology. Brittany Stotler, vice president of marketing, talks about the role of 3D printing at Local Motors’ Knoxville, Tennessee, microfactory in the video above.

Read more> Local Motors relies on 3D printing to produce its vehicles

Images & video courtesy of additivemanufacturing.media