3D Printed Electric Cars

In 2013 we witnessed the birth of the first 3D-printed electric car named the Urbee 2. The Urbee 2 excited and inspired many in the industry, and it seemed that 3D printed cars would be a viable option in the very near future. The vehicle was created lovingly by a passionate team of California-based engineers, who strived to take a more environmental path in the creation of electric vehicles. The Urbee2 took a labouring 2,500 hours to create.

However it appears that the Urbee 2 now has some competition, in the form of The Strati.

The Strati was shown at Arizona-based International Manufacturing Technology Show held in Chicago, whilst visitors watched the prototype being printed and assembled in front of a live audience. The car took a fraction of the time its successor, taking a measly 44 hours to complete the whole process, made possible by only requiring 40 printed parts to assemble.

Surely a revolutionary design was thought up by a world class design team? Surprisingly not, the prototype design was the product of an online competition, won by Michelle Anoe of Turin.

The Strati is said to be able to reach speeds of 40 miles per hour, and boasts a 120 mile trip on a full charge. Although, there will be the option to have a gas engine fitted for those who aren't fully converted to electric cars. It is expected that The Strati will retail for around $18,000 on US turf, making it more affordable than standard EVs.