3D printing technology seems to break new ground every week. The latest development? The world's first 3D-printed car.
Local Motors, an Arizona-based manufacturer, brought "The Strati" to New York City this week, The New York Post reported. The car takes just 44 hours to build, and was printed during the International Manufacturing Technology Show earlier in October.
"We are the first company to make a 3D-printed car using carbon fiber-reinforced thermoplastic," said Local Motors CEO John Rogers.
The two-seater Strati is a battery powered car made out of just 49 parts. Nearly all the parts were produced using a 3D printer, with a few exceptions including things like the tires, battery and windshield.
Mashable's Lance Ulanoff described his experience after taking a short drive in the car:
"Even though this is a printed car, it doesn't give the impression of a kit or even cheaply made automobile. The leather-clad steering wheel feels solid in my hands. There's a tiny dash display for speed and nestled to the left and somewhat behind the steering wheel is a set of three buttons with the letters DNR."
The car was printed using a custom machine from tool maker Cincinnati Inc.
"We seem to have a knack for developing game-changing innovations," said Cincinnati Inc. CEO Andy Jamison. "We have other prospects in the pipeline as a result of the demonstration at IMTS, so the machine and technology have been very well-received."
According to Ulanoff, the car is capable of traveling at up to 50 miles per hour, but the early models will only be able to go 25 mph. This means they will be "neighborhood safe," eliminating the need for seat belts and airbags, but not street legal. The first models are expected to go on sale in the next year, and will cost around $14,000.
According to Ulanoff, the company plans to upgrade the cars to travel at their full speed in the near future. Anyone who purchases an early model will be able to have their old chassis recycled and get a new, street-legal model printed for them.
3D-printers are responsible for many other fascinating creations. The controversial 3D-printed gun has managed to pass a firing test, but has faced bans and other legal challenges. One non-profit group has developed a way to produce cheap, 3D-printed prosthetic hands.
Take a look at what 3D printers have accomplished in just a few short years in the Gallery below.
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