3-D Printer Plots 2017 Vehicle Launch

Phoenix-based Local Motors Inc. plans to launch sales of its dune buggy-like Strati electric coupe, which features a 3-D printed structure, within the next two years. The company has demonstrated the technology at several industry events including the 2015 Detroit auto show in the last year.

The car's chassis and body panels are made from an 80:20 mix of ABS plastic and carbon fiber. A three-axis printer melts the materials and forms the pre-programmed shape. More than 200 layers are stacked together to create the chassis, which takes about 44 hours to print.

A CNC router is used to smooth the rough edges, and the body is painted and treated to complement the 3-D-printed texture. This is followed by a 90-minute assembly operation that adds the car's drivetrain, electrical components, lighting, wiring, seating, wheels, tires, safety equipment and other non-printed parts.

The Strati's base two-seat design is the result of an online contest. Local Motors says the carbon fiber-reinforced plastic body and 3-D process will allow buyers to choose among different styles, ranging from off-road models to sports car.

The company plans to source components for the production model from traditional tier one suppliers. The concept model's drivetrain and mechanical components were borrowed from Renault's tiny Twizy EV.

The production model will meet all safety and fuel economy regulations in the U.S., according to Local Motors.

The company plans to produce the cars in dozens of "micro-factories" across the U.S., including two initial facilities: one in Tennessee and another just outside of Washington, D.C. The typical 40,000-sq-ft layout include an assembly area, research lab and showroom.

Depending on design and option levels, the 3-D cars are expected to sell for between $18,000 and $30,000. Founded in 2007, Local Motors is funded by 40 private investors.