The future of automobile manufacturing is here and it’s focused around 3D printing. One company paving the way for this technology is Divergent Microfactories, who unveiled in a June 24 press release the world’s first 3D-printed supercar: “Blade.”
This prototype supercar was created because Kevin Czinger, founder and CEO of Divergent Microfactories, wanted to find an environmentally friendly way to produce cars. His solution is what is called a Node, “a 3D-printed aluminum joint that connects pieces of carbon fiber tubing to make up the car’s chassis.”
(Related: Lexus Unveils Working Hoverboard)
By using the Node and 3D printing, the work required for assembly of the chassis is dramatically reduced. Additionally, the weight of the chassis is 90 percent lighter than a traditional car’s, as well as stronger and more durable. You can watch a video of the chassis being assembled directly below.
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Based around the Node is Blade, Divergent Microfactories’ pride and joy, as well as the world’s first 3D-printed supercar. The press release states that this is “one of the greenest and most powerful cars in the world.” Powering the car is a 700 hp bi-fuel engine that can utilize either compressed natural gas or gasoline.
Being comprised of lightweight materials and powered by a powerful engine, the Blade delivers pure performance. It’s claimed 0-60 mph time is a mere two seconds.This is because of the light weight of 1,400 lbs, which makes for an insane power-to-weight ratio.
Divergent Microfactories is currently planning on selling a limited number of high-performance vehicles like the Blade. They will be producing them in their own microfactory, hence the name.
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(Source: Divergent Microfactories)
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