Volkswagen is working to keep old cars alive with 3D printing

3D printing technology has certainly found its place within the automotive industry, such as seen with major brands BMW and Audi, long time users of additive production for rapid prototyping. Just like any technology, 3D printing has changed a once tedious process into one that is easier than ever before. Thus making additive manufacturing an attractive option, with more and more companies implementing it into their production process. Thanks to the opportunities presented through 3D printing, it has now found a friend in Volkswagen, the German car giant, who has launched a new initiative for the 3D printing of spare parts.

Last week, Volkswagen announced their pilot project, which will be in cooperation with the Development and Technological Planning Departments. The goal of this project will be to use 3D printing to produce spare car parts. A new development that should have antique automobile enthusiasts as well as owners of older car models very excited.

The first spare part was manufactured for the VW Corrado – image via Wikipedia

According to the purchasing manager of Volkswagen AG, Tobias Pape, the solution is 3D printing, which will open up a variety of new possibilities. “3D printing in the Volkswagen Group has been used so far only in the areas of prototype and equipment construction. Now, we want to apply this internal know-how to the production of spare parts.”