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Pioneering 3D-Printed Cars

Local Motors' 'LM3D Swim' is a Car Made of 75% 3D-Printed Parts

— April 8, 2016 — Autos
For years, consumers have only been able to appreciate the form of Local Motors' LM3D Swim in conceptual renderings. While many designs get stuck at this stage and require technology to catch up, the LM3D Swim is a next-generation car that's forging ahead as an innovator in both automotive and 3D printing technology.

At the SEMA show in Las Vegas this year, Local Motors debuted its innovative LM3D Swim made of 75% 3D-printed parts. The innovative auto manufacturer is set to begin pre-selling models for $53,000 in 2016 and deliver them in early 2017. One of the last steps that must be completed before cars are sold is that the LM3D must pass federal crash testing.

The disruptive Local Motors' LM3D Swim is one to watch as an indicator of the role of 3D printing role in the automotive industry.
Trend Themes
1. 3D Printing in Automotive Industry - The LM3D Swim is showcasing the potential of 3D printing in the automotive industry, paving the way for more extensive use of this technology in car manufacturing.
2. Innovative Car Manufacturing - Local Motors' LM3D Swim is pioneering a new approach to car manufacturing by extensively utilizing 3D-printed parts, opening up opportunities for more efficient and customizable production processes.
3. Integration of Conceptual Designs - The LM3D Swim demonstrates how conceptual renderings can be successfully translated into fully functional vehicles, encouraging the integration of innovative design ideas in the automotive industry.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive Manufacturing - The LM3D Swim indicates the potential disruption and transformation of traditional automotive manufacturing processes, prompting companies to explore new ways of production and design.
2. 3D Printing Technology - The successful application of 3D printing in the LM3D Swim highlights the promising future of this technology, inspiring further advancements and investments in the 3D printing industry.
3. Automotive Design - By showcasing the integration of conceptual designs into a tangible product, the LM3D Swim presents opportunities for innovative approaches to automotive design, inspiring designers to think beyond traditional constraints.
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