Automakers like Rivian and Ford are ‘democratizing 3D printing’ to reduce costs and increase speed

Automakers like Rivian and Ford are ‘democratizing 3D printing’ to reduce costs and increase speed

Automakers including Ford, Rivian and GM are expanding 3D printing to make prototypes, factory tools and low-volume parts faster and at lower cost.

Automakers like Rivian and Ford are democratizing 3D printing to reduce costs and increase speed

DETROIT — Automakers including Ford Motor and Rivian Automotive are leaning into a new type of manufacturing line: 3D printing. Manufacturers say it’s helping them reduce costs and increase speed. The technology has been around for decades, but it’s becoming more commoditized in the automotive industry, with 3D printers used to create everything from vehicle