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Can A 3D Printed Car Change The Industry?

Local Motors showed off its Strati 3D printed car in Detroit this year with plans to begin selling it later this year. If we’re all to believe the hype, 3D printed vehicles could play a role in the future of the auto industry. But some challenges remain before they can go mainstream...

Local Motors showed off its Strati 3D printed car in Detroit this year with plans to begin selling it later this year. If we’re all to believe the hype, 3D printed vehicles could play a role in the future of the auto industry. But some challenges remain before they can go mainstream.

Take a look at this CBS News interview with Local Motors CEO, John B. Rogers, as he talks about getting his vision on the road:

 

Local Motors isn’t the only company trying to mass product 3D printed vehicles. Over a year ago, Canadian-based EcoLogic showed off its Urbee vehicle, which is made up of more than 60 percent 3D printed parts.

With the push to do things differently in the auto industry β€” like all-electric vehicles, new distribution channels and 3D printing technologies β€” is the auto industry on the cusp of a paradigm shift? It should be noted that the Strati can only go 25 miles per hour, but Local Motors has plans to eventually make highway-legal cars β€” presumably as the technology advances.

With advancing technologies and changing consumer habits, is the auto industry beginning a paradigm shift? If so, what other factors might be playing into the change? Tell us what you think by leaving your comments below.

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