Mini is turning to 3D printing technology to offer its customers a wider range of personalisation options.
In order to make its models even more special for their owners, Mini will be offering its customers to design their own exterior and interior trim bits for their cars. This will be done via dedicated online configuration software.
The upgrade package includes 3D-printed side indicator inlays and dashboard trim, as well as personalised sill plates and LED puddle lights. The indicator inlays and dashboard facia come in one of five colours and can display text, simple images and textured patterns, or one of a small selection of cityscapes. Using a laser etching technique, meanwhile, the illuminated sill plates can present text in the owner’s handwriting, basic graphics and even star constellations. Additionally, when the doors are opened, the puddle lights project personalised text onto the ground.
The components, which are designed to be fitted at home, will be manufactured in Munich, with Mini anticipating a four-week lead time once the designs have been submitted. Each component is subject to the same BMW Group crash and durability tests as any other item of trim.
Given the cost and complexity of 3D printing, Mini teamed up with computing giant Hewlett Packard to refine the process. These new set of customization options will be available in select markets initially. There is no news of it being coming to India in the near future.
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Glenn Noronha
Dhruv Dhaka
