To be honest, I'm not sure
To be honest, I'm not sure how the 3D printing fits into their existing business model. The microfactory model at least works on a small scale, with customers who really care about their cars. They won't capture the masses with it, but I don't think they necessarily intend to. As for 3D printing, I doubt they will be manufacturing cars with it. Printing a model as a publicity stunt, yes. Using the technique for certain parts in their vehicles, probably. But I think the main takeaway is the impact on design, as I mentioned. It makes prototyping (without production-quality materials) faster and easier, especially changing designs that would otherwise require updated tooling. That is where it could have an effect beyond just what Local Motors does, if they can prove this new ORNL printing technique is effective. Thoughts?