3D printing enters the pint-sized car making industry
The Ford 3D store was unveiled last week.
Ford’s latest GT supercar doesn’t go on sale till 2016, but it’s already been announced as the company’s priciest vehicle ever, with estimates hovering around the Lamborghini Aventador’s price tag of $400,000.
Most people can’t afford this, but that doesn’t mean they can’t have their very own pint-sized version of the car, with Ford’s launch of their new 3D printing store last week.
The Ford 3D Store allows customers to purchase pre-printed 3D models of their favorite vehicle in plastic, or download the digital file to print on their own 3D printer. Ford is the first automaker to sell 3D printer files of production cars, Ford License Manager Mark Bentley told Boston.com.
“The store allows customers to interact with Ford brand in a new way they haven’t been able to before,’’ Bentley said.
Story continues after the gallery.
Iconic Ford trucks and cars:
[bdc-gallery id=”1419084″]
Currently, printable files are available for the F-150 Raptor, Shelby GT 350R, Focus ST, Focus RS, Fiesta ST, and of course the limited edition Ford GT, but Bentley said more models will be available in the near future. The files only cost $4.99, while pre-printed models (excluding the Ford GT) are $39. The Ford GT is $230.
A 3D printed model of the Ford Raptor F-150 from the Ford 3D Store.
Pre-printed models are 1/32nd scale in plastic, but if customers use their own printer, they can choose the scale and material used. Some professional printers can use materials like sandstone, soft plastics, and even metal, Bentley said.
Why would anyone want a six-inch Ford?
“As a memento for a desk, or for a child to play with,’’ Bentley said. “We’re taking the digital and making it physical.’’
Children with car-loving dads might also consider the 3D models the perfect Father’s Day gift.
To read our review of the long-awaited redesign of the Volvo XC90, click here.
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