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Airbus, Local Motors Partner on Printed Cars, Drones
European aerospace Airbus SE and Phoenix-based Local Motors Inc. are launching a joint venture to use 3D printing techniques to make passenger drones and self-driving vehicles.
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European aerospace Airbus SE and Phoenix-based Local Motors Inc. are launching a joint venture to use 3D printing techniques to make passenger drones and self-driving vehicles.
Their 50:50 venture, called Neorizon, plans to set up a “microfactory” in Munich, the Financial Times reports. The partners have worked together less formally since 2016.
LMI has been striving since 2007 to develop a high-speed 3D printing process for vehicles. The company has been touting its technology with Olli, a self-driving electric shuttle designed for use on campuses and urban areas. The vehicle can carry 12 occupants at speeds of 25 mph (40 kph) or less.
Neorizon envisions customers using small local plants to “print” vehicles on demand, according to FT. LMI Founder Jay Rogers says his company’s technology is proven and ready for commercialization.
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