Daimler Truck & Buses: Making Additive Manufacturing a Strategy for the Future

Additive manufacturing is becoming an increasingly popular production method in the automotive and transportation sectors. Many automotive manufacturers have already firmly anchored 3D technologies in their corporate structure, and the railway industry is also increasingly relying on parts created using a 3D printer. And it is not just used for prototyping, either. Companies are using AM to manufacture individual parts, tools and systems, as well as mass production of specific components. For some companies, additive manufacturing has been a game-changer, enabling flexible, demand-driven production and bold innovation. Other companies have reservations about 3D printing and have not yet leveraged its potential.

Daimler Truck & Buses is one of the companies that has recognized the benefits of additive manufacturing, actively employing it for its own needs. It is now an integral part of the company’s strategy and a cornerstone of implementing a digital business model. In this interview, Daniela Rehm and Ralf Anderhofstadt from Daimler Truck & Buses tell us about their journey to implement 3D printing within the company, the milestones they have achieved and their next big goals.

3DN: Can you introduce yourselves and explain your work at Daimler Truck & Buses?

Daniela: My name is Daniela Rehm. In our 3D printing technology center, I head up product management and marketing activities for additive manufacturing within Daimler Buses. In our consulting unit, I coordinate key account management for central sales activities.