This would not be the first time Porsche resorts to 3D printing tech to produce automobile components, but its latest achievement is one of the greatest so far.
Building an electric motor drive necessitates highly precise simulations to determine load distribution among all the sections, connecting elements and reinforcements. The engineering crew succeeded in this task, ending up with a part 40 percent lighter than a traditional machined one and twice as robust in the most critical load-bearing points.
The experimental drive unit comes fitted with an operational differential case and gear, the necessary electronics, and an electric motor.
The automaker claims the experiment proves that 3D printed solutions are viable in car drivetrain production. The result is a lightweight unit that consists of fewer parts, takes 20 minutes less to assemble, and fulfils more functions than the traditional unit.
Watch the video for another example of 3D printing by Porsche.