03/05/2018

GM lightens up with 3D printing

Reuters reports that General Motors Co is using lightweight 3D-printed parts on its alternative-fuel vehicles.

In order to meet its target of 20 new electric battery and fuel cell vehicles by 2023, the automaker has decided to make its own printed parts in order to make the vehicles lighter and therefore improve fuel efficiency.

GM was able to showcase a 3D-printed stainless steel seat bracket with Autodesk technology which comprised one part rather than a traditionally manufactured part which would involve eight components and several suppliers; the bracket is also 40% lighter and 20% stronger.

While GM has used 3D-printed parts for some time when creating prototypes but now the company expects to see the parts being utilised in vastly higher quantities once the technology tightens up.