Mini Cooper Adds Customization With 3-D Printed Parts
Mini Cooper announced that it will allow customers to use an online configurator to create customized 3-d printed parts for their cars.
The revolutionary art of three-dimensional printing has found its way into the automotive industry for years now. Although it is not widely used, Mercedes-Benz has actually started selling a 3-D printed part for its older models. Mini Cooper has plans to join Mercedes in offering a service that allows its customers to create custom 3-D printed parts for their cars.
The program, called Mini Yours Customized, will grant customers the option to use an online configurator to make everything from custom inlays to LED light images and trim pieces. Upon placing their design order, Mini says it will print and deliver it within just a few weeks. It will be up to the customer to either install the part themselves or go to the dealer.
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It is a known fact that customizing a vehicle can hurt its resale value. For this reason, Mini suggests that owners keep the original parts after installing the custom ones. Mini reassures customers that if they save the factory part, they can be swapped out with the 3-d prints when the time comes to sell. This means that it will also be possible to have a couple of designs you like, and switch them whenever you feel like it.
CarBuzz reports that,
"“Mini USA has announced that it will be the first automaker in the world to offer customizable options that are ‘created by the customer and produced using innovative production procedures such as 3D printing.'”"
Mini has not yet released pricing information for the U.S. or details regarding the start date for this program.
You will soon be able to order bespoke bits for your MINI with your name on them through the MINI Yours Customised program. Easy to change the parts, apparently and should be inexpensive.
— Shane O' Donoghue 🚗🚘🏎️🚙🚉🚌🚴🛴 (@Shane_O_D) December 26, 2017
Too far? pic.twitter.com/pd3ugJO4Gk
Check out the video clip below to see just how this personalized customization program will work.
What do you think of this new technology being implemented into the Mini Yours program? What would be the first 3-d part you print? Let us know in the comments below.