Local Motors creates the world’s first 3D printed auto series

As part of its original model, it features easily removable body panels, but for now it’s uncertain if this characteristic will be maintained in the product to be placed for sale. The victor was crowned in July and the vehicle was named LM3D Swim.

Local Motors is planning to sell several models of the LM3D while conducting federal test crashing and getting highway certifications.

The LM3D Swim is produced using 3D printers and pre-sales are expected to begin in spring 2016. This four seater ride is certainly a beauty to look at, and you can be sure that it will turn heads when you cruise down the road. And with the use of 3D printing, that means less waste involved in manufacture, and a completely recyclable print material for the vehicle.

Speaking to SlashGear at SEMA 2015, Local Motors chief marketing officer Elle Shelley was quoted as saying that the LM3D will be safer than the other cars you see on the road, as its production process allows for crumple and deformation zones, thus making the car’s frame a “complex roll-cage” in effect. While exact production numbers will depend on orders for the cars, Local Motors notes that each microfactory will have an expected annual production capacity of 2,400 vehicles. The auto was designed with software from Siemens, and printed in an enormous machine, similar to the one Local Motors used to live-print the Strati concept previous year at SEMA. Local Motors has said that they will be utilizing partners such as IBM and their Internet of Things platform to launch a series of apps and connected vehicle products, which they say will increase driver safety and efficiency in traffic.

The toy-like LM3D Swim was created by Arizona-based Local Motors, who have announced that the vehicle will be available to buy from next year – for $53,000 (£34,000).

Earlier in the year Local Motors held a 3D vehicle printing competition.

In addition to the upcoming microfactory in Knoxville, the company has another microfactory in Las Vegas, a smaller factory in Crystal City, and its headquarters in Pheonix.

They not only had to 3D print the majority of the auto, but also reduce part count and prove that using DDM is more economical than conventional manufacturing methods. Additionally, they hope to open 100 new locations over the next 10 years.