Automotive 3D Printing Market Assessment, By Technology [Fused Deposition Modeling, Selective Laser Sintering, Stereolithography, Electron Beam Melting, Others], By Material [Metals, Plastics, Composites, Others], By Vehicle Type [Passenger, Commercial, O

Automotive 3D Printing Market Assessment, By Technology [Fused Deposition Modeling, Selective Laser Sintering, Stereolithography, Electron Beam Melting, Others], By Material [Metals, Plastics, Composites, Others], By Vehicle Type [Passenger, Commercial, Others], By Application [Prototyping, Tooling & Jigs, Part Production, Others], By Region, Opportunities and Forecast, 2018-2030F

Global automotive 3D printing market size was valued at USD 2.2 billion in 2022, expected to reach USD 8.45 billion in 2030, with a CAGR of 18.32% for the forecast period between 2023 and 2030. The automotive industry increasingly adopts additive manufacturing or 3D printing for various purposes, including prototyping, tooling, and producing end-use components. The technology offers design flexibility and lead times, contributing to increased vehicle efficiency and structural integrity. As fuel efficiency and emissions become more important, 3D printing has produced lightweight components, enhancing vehicle efficiency. Additionally, 3D printing allows automakers to customize automotive components, particularly interior parts, allowing customers to personalize their vehicles. As automotive giants introduce updated versions of 3D printers, the market is becoming more future-oriented with such developments.

The largest European automotive manufacturer, Volkswagen Group, has recently procured a second 3D printer system from Additive Industries, a Netherlands-based metal 3D printing manufacturer. The acquisition represents a substantial investment in advancing parameter development and has been further bolstered with the integration of MetalFAB's powder load tool and powder recovery station, designed for maximum efficiency and waste reduction. The system is furnished with full-field laser technology and automated build change capabilities, enabling a high level of productivity, and streamlining operations. Volkswagen has opted to expand its lineup of MetalFAB systems due to the printer's remarkable automation features, eliminating manual processes and enhancing safety.

Advent of Lightweight Concept Cars with Topology Optimization to Garner Market Growth

In addition to expediting the development of products, 3D printing plays a pivotal role in attracting new business. Many customers rely on this technology as it provides access to cutting-edge capabilities and the ability to manufacture components with the latest materials. One of the most notable advantages of 3D printing is its capacity to reduce the weight of vehicles. It is achieved by creating lightweight structures, which can be incorporated into various vehicle parts, ranging from interior panels to brackets and engine components. The reason being, 3D printing eliminates the necessity for subtractive manufacturing processes, which often result in overly engineered and heavier components instead, parts built layer by layer. This process permits the fabrication of intricate, optimized, lightweight designs. Furthermore, 3D printing empowers designers to employ computer algorithms to fashion components with precisely the right amount of material in the correct locations, resulting in lightweight and exceptionally durable components.

In August 2022, Czinger Vehicles, a company specializing in electric hypercars manufacturing using the Divergent Adaptive Production System (DAPS), introduced a 3D-printed gearbox case designed for the automotive sector. Czinger, renowned for crafting electric hypercars through the DAPS assembly approach, partnered with Xtrac, a UK-based automotive engineering company, to develop its pioneering gearbox case.

AI's Transformative Role in 3D Printing: Enhancing Design, Quality Control, and Efficiency

Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms can generate and enhance intricate 3D designs. By considering various factors like material strength, mass, and the constraints of manufacturing, AI can produce innovative and efficient designs that might be challenging for human designers to envision. AI can recommend the most suitable materials for 3D printing, considering the specific requirements of automotive components, such as strength, durability, or heat resistance. AI-driven computer vision systems are capable of inspecting 3D-printed components in real-time. These systems are effective at identifying defects, deviations from design specifications, and surface irregularities, ensuring the quality and reliability of 3D-printed parts. Additionally, AI can monitor and predict maintenance needs for 3D printers, thereby reducing downtime and optimizing printer performance.

In February 2023, Czinger Vehicles accomplished the remarkable feat of getting robots to construct a hypercar. This groundbreaking achievement marked the creation of the first hypercar, which was designed and manufactured using artificial intelligence and 3D printing technology in Scottsdale. This groundbreaking hypercar is anticipated to have a price tag of USD 2 million. The vehicle's design was driven by artificial intelligence, and robotic systems orchestrated its assembly. Experts regard this innovative development as a glimpse into the future of hypercars.

Government-Supported Innovation: Boosting 3D Printing Technology with Funding and Collaborative Initiatives

Governments financially support universities, research institutes, and companies developing 3D printing technologies. They establish technology accelerators and incubators to provide resources, mentorship, and financial assistance for startups and companies. The funding stimulates innovation and accelerates industry progress through grants, subsidies, or R&D tax exemptions.

In May 2022, the United States government launched the Additive Manufacturing (AM) Forward program to expand the additive manufacturing industry in the country. The program is set to involve the government and prominent multinational corporations in providing financial support to a range of 3D printing projects, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and other businesses. The federal government is executing the AM Forward program in collaboration with the Non-Profit Applied Science and Technology Research Organization. The federal government is partnering with initial program participants like GE Aviation and Honeywell, along with major corporations including Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and Siemens Energy, to drive initiatives promoting additive manufacturing in the United States.

Prototyping and Tooling Spearheads Industry Advancements with Government Support

The prototyping and tooling sector is set to dominate the market due to the rapid production of 3D printed prototypes, which accelerates time to market in the competitive automotive industry. This cost-effective method simplifies the iterative design process, allowing engineers to make multiple modifications and conduct multiple tests on parts, leading to improved designs and enhanced performance. The federal government is collaborating with early participants in the AM Forward program to promote additive manufacturing within the country.

In January 2023, Toyota, a renowned Japanese automotive multinational, disclosed how their adoption of Zortrax's 3D printing technology had streamlined their vehicle assembly processes. Toyota has harnessed Zortrax's M-Series 3D printing solutions to enhance its prototyping and tooling procedures. The integrated farm management software has made it well-suited for large-scale implementation. The system's compatibility with external filaments has extended its applications to various domains, including solar energy prototyping, and creating costumes inspired by the Cyberpunk genre.

North America Takes the Wheel: Leading the Global Automotive 3D Printing

North American is poised to lead the global automotive 3D printing market. North America has a rich history of embracing and advancing manufacturing technologies, including the integration of 3D printing into the production of automotive components and parts. The United States boasts one of the world's largest and most established automotive industries, with a diverse landscape of car manufacturers, suppliers, and research institutions, creating a conducive environment for the adoption of 3D printing within the automotive sector. The United States has a longstanding reputation for technological innovation and a supportive entrepreneurial culture, leading to numerous additive manufacturing companies, startups, and research centers in the country. This presence provides a solid foundation for developing and implementing 3D printing technologies in automotive production.

In August 2023, HartSmart Products unveiled an industrial 3D printer designed for the automotive, aerospace, and other sectors, labeled as “Made in USA”.

Impact of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has left a deep mark on global supply chains, causing a scarcity of vital raw materials and 3D printing equipment. Consequently, manufacturers were grappled with sourcing critical components, temporarily interrupting 3D printer production. In line with many other sectors, automotive manufacturing exhibited the effect of initial pandemic weeks marked by lockdowns and a dip in consumer demand. The slump translated into reduced demand for 3D-printed automotive parts. Several 3D printing firms have invested in manufacturing PPE, ventilator components, and other essential medical supplies to support the healthcare industry's pressing needs. This shift away from automotive applications has momentarily disrupted the 3D printing market in the automotive sector.

Impact of Russia-Ukraine War

The ongoing war has severely disrupted the global supply chain for 3D printing materials and components. The automotive 3D printing industry has faced increased costs, primarily due to the scarcity of raw materials, logistical challenges, and manufacturing facility limitations. Essential materials like metal powders, plastics, and other equipment are typically routed from Russia through Ukraine. Businesses often base their strategic decisions on geopolitical stability, and the uncertainties stemming from the Russia-Ukraine conflict have instilled caution in investing in emerging technologies, like automotive 3D printing. Furthermore, governments and organizations have diverted their resources and support away from specific industries or technologies during conflict, potentially impacting research and development initiatives in the 3D printing sector.

Key Player Landscape and Outlook

The competitive scenario in the automotive 3D printing market revolves around integrating cutting-edge technologies. Many companies combine artificial intelligence with their 3D printing technology to streamline printing. Organizations like 3ntr, Filament Innovations, and others are adopting this approach. Their systems are known for a straightforward ""print-only"" approach, free from excessive marketing or unnecessary features. Furthermore, companies are pursuing expansion strategies, including collaborations and acquisitions, to reinforce their market positions.

In October 2022, during a facility tour of GE's United States operations, GE's aerospace and additive manufacturing divisions unveiled their forthcoming 3D printing strategies. The tour offered insights into GE's vision for the future of industrial 3D printing. Over the past decade, GE has made substantial investments in 3D printing, including the acquisition of companies like Morris Technologies, Arcam, and Concept Laser.

In May 2022, Renishaw introduced a fresh lineup of 3D printing equipment, the RenAM 500 series. This series includes the RenAM 500S Flex, a single-laser 3D printer, and the RenAM 500Q Flex, a four-laser 3D printer. Notably, both systems incorporate a streamlined powder handling system designed to meet the requirements of research and development (R&D), pre-production, or bureau environments.

In February 2022, 3D Systems expanded its solution offerings by acquiring Titan Additive LLC, a prominent player in polymer extrusion technology. The strategic move is aimed at diversifying the options available to its customer base.