3D Printing at the Heart of the “Ferrari” Movie

Released on December 14 in Italy, Michael Mann’s “Ferrari” takes place in the heart of Modena, a city renowned for its automotive past. Based on Brock Yates’ 1991 biography “Enzo Ferrari: Man and Machine”, the film delves into the life of Enzo Ferrari, the legendary founder of the luxury sports car brand and stars Adam Driver, Penélope Cruz, Shailene Woodley and Patrick Dempsey along other Hollywood A-listers. What sets this film project apart, however, is the contribution of CRP Technology, an Italian company specializing in 3D printing. Indeed, 3D printing technology played a crucial role in the making of Ferrari, giving an innovative dimension to this production.

Located in “Motor Valley,” near Ferrari’s headquarters, CRP Technology worked closely with Michael Mann’s production team. Thanks to a 3D printing technique, selective laser sintering or SLS, and the use of Windform composite materials, the company contributed greatly to creating functional parts for the film. What’s more, the company’s expertise in additive manufacturing enabled rapid creation and delivery of these parts.

A 3D-printed visor for a Windform GT helmet (left), then tested by an actor from the film (right) (photo credits: CRP Technology)

“Ferrari” on Screen: The Contribution of 3D Printing

The manufacturer, renowned for its advances in additive manufacturing, produced and delivered various accessories such as driver’s helmet parts (visor) and stand elements. The meticulous design of these items was achieved using CRP Technology’s SLS process, ensuring optimum precision and authenticity for the time period. Selected materials include glass-fiber-filled Windform GT, carbon-fiber-filled Windform XT 2.0, and rubber-like thermoplastic elastomer Windform RL, chosen for their mechanical properties and adaptability.