BMW will show two Mini concept cars at the upcoming IAA 2017 motor show in Frankfurt, and both models will make use of 3D printed parts.

Lots of people are talking about the Mini Electric Concept car, an all-electric production model that BMW will release in 2019. It and the Mini John Cooper Works GP Concept, a design study, will be shown at the IAA 2017 motor show, which starts on the 14th of September in Frankfurt.

Both cars feature 3D printed parts. In the Electric model, the inlays of the wheels and the air intakes are 3D printed. Meanwhile in the GP Concept, 3D printing was used to create several interior parts. These 3D printed components are specifically in the car doors and instrument panel.

Additionally, the seats of the GP make use of a 3D knitting technique. This kind of technique has been covered before at All3DP, in particular when IKEA demonstrated its use in their PS 2017 collection of armchairs.

BMW Incorporates 3D Printing into Vehicle Styling

3D printing technology is no stranger to the idea of concept cars. Indeed, the technology is ideal for its single-use nature and complex production abilities. Dashboards, interiors, and even large exterior components like bumpers have been made with 3D printing.

Apart from being useful in concept models, BMW also acknowledges other opportunities that 3D printing offers. This includes vehicle customization and tool-free production of functional design elements.

Vehicle styling is a central element of the Mini John Cooper Works GP. Bold red detailing wraps around the entire vehicle, from the wheels to headlights. Talking about the GP, BMW Group’s Adrian van Hooydonk says the concept “brings together the full suite of defining Mini design features and showcases them at their sportiest and most exciting.”

The Mini Electric promises ‘exciting driving dynamics’ and also ‘maximized range’ on both urban and rural roads. Some of the exterior trim pieces are 3D printed, including the surfaces in the air intakes.

Needless to say, car manufacturers already making use of 3D printing. It will be interesting to see how they continue to use the technology in order to stay ahead of the competition.

Sources: CAR magazine, designboom