Spending on 3-D Printing to Reach $1.25B by 2020

Jan. 5, 2015

Jan. 5, 2015—The use of 3-D printing in the auto industry is expected to reach $1.25 billion over the next five years, quintupling its current value in the industry, according to reports from VentureBeat and 3D Printing Industry.

The 3D Printing Industry report outlines that companies in the industry spend about $168 million a year on 3-D printing hardware and about $99 million on materials. Those numbers are speculated to increase fivefold its current rate over the next five years.

The reports also outline that the technology is not quite there yet for mass-producing fully functional 3-D printed cars, but that 3-D printing is essential in the use of developing prototypes, test engines, and non-mechanical parts of cars such as cupholders.

Ford Motor Company was one of the first companies to adopt the technology back in 1988, and the company currently has three 3-D printers in use at its Dearborn, Mich., plant, and another two in use in its European factories.

Sponsored Recommendations

Free Resources for Shops Like Yours

View insights, research and solutions curated specifically for shops like yours.

Restore & Protect: The Powerful Revenue and Profit Accelerator for Your Business

Restore & Protect is a major business opportunity for Valvoline installers with positive impact on profit growth as well as customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Deliver a First-Class Guest Experience

Our dedicated Valvoline Trusted Advisor Sales and Support Team provides hands-on classroom and targeted in-store coaching to help your employees become more skilled at selling...

Promote Growth on Two Fronts: Existing and New Customers

Increase Sales and Customer Traffic To Your Store(s).