3D Printing in Automotive: How FDM Technology Accelerates Vehicle Design and Manufacturing
From Concept to Part in 24 Hours
The automotive industry is an endless race for speed, reliability, and innovation. Today, manufacturers are increasingly incorporating FDM 3D printing into their production lines and R&D centers to accelerate development and reduce costs.
Applications of FDM Printing in Automotive
1. Prototypes and Pre-Production Samples
Engineers print:
headlight housings, mirrors, and air intakes;
interior elements such as panels and holders;
components for aerodynamic testing.
2. Jigs and Fixture Tools
On the printer they create:
assembly templates, guides, and fixtures;
mounts for sensors and cameras;
manual and pneumatic tools.
3. Repair and Customization Parts
Service centers and tuning shops print:
custom plugs, brackets, and overlays;
adapters for custom equipment installations;
bespoke components on demand.
Why Automakers Choose FDM
Speed — from CAD to part in 24-48 hours.
Cost Savings — reduces expenses on tooling and R&D.
Flexibility — easy transitions between projects and materials.
Conveyor-level Prototyping — accelerates time-to-market.
Materials Used in Automotive
ABS, ASA — for durable visual prototypes.
PA12 CF / GF, PC — engineering and heat-resistant materials.
TPU — flexible elements, seals, dampers.
PETG — impact-resistant transparent products.
Application Examples
BMW prints over 100,000 parts per year, ranging from mounts to assembly fixtures.
Ford uses FDM for developing ergonomic tools in assembly areas.
Porsche offers customers custom-printed interior and trim elements.
The Protype Printer — An Industrial Solution for Automakers and R&D Departments
Our system is designed to meet the real demands of the automotive industry:
Closed active thermal chamber — consistently prints PC, PA-CF, TPU;
Interchangeable heads — quick switching between soft and rigid materials;
Cascade filament feeding — uninterrupted printing;
HEPA filtration — safe for installation in office or laboratory environments.
Want to Test on Your Projects?
Request a demo — we'll deliver, install, and launch the printer right at your site.