In recent years, the technology of 3D printing has made digital design and physical modeling seamless, allowing for design, simulation, modeling, and testing to happen with a fraction of the hassle. Porsche have used this technology to produce spare parts for older models, and for things like the seats of the 718, but now they are using it to innovate by producing the pistons for the new 911 GT2 RS with a 3D printer.
To do this they are working with partners Mahle and Trumpf, German parts manufacturer and mechanical engineering firm respectively, and what it means for Porsche is the elimination of the need for molds and hard and fast processes for the production of one single part. That way, they can redesign and change pistons without disrupting any other parts of their process, and said process is optimized for efficiency by artificial intelligence.
3D printing is a technology that has already proved its potential for Porsche, let alone for the automotive industry at large, and it’s incredibly exciting that now it gets a chance to contribute to making some of the most incredible cars in the world faster, stronger, and further ahead of the curve.
