Mini to increase personalisation via the use of 3D printing

The technology will allow customers to have custom sill plates, puddle lights and dashboard trim.

By Dan Prosser, Autocar UK calendar 27 Dec 2017 Views icon5930 Views Share - Share to Facebook Share to Twitter Share to LinkedIn Share to Whatsapp

Mini is turning to 3D printing technology to offer its customers a wider range of personalisation options.

From 2018 onwards new and existing Mini owners will be able to design their own exterior and interior trim components via a dedicated online configurator. "Individualisation has always been a big topic with Mini," said Thomas Schmitz, product manager of Mini Yours Customised. "Now we want to take individualisation to the next level."

p90288479

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.

p90288494

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. UK pricing is yet to be confirmed but European customers will pay €40 (around Rs 3,057) for a pair of personalised puddle lights and €140 (Rs 10,701) for the dashboard facia.

 

RELATED ARTICLES
Hyundai unveils next−gen highly efficient hybrid system

auther Autocar Professional Bureau calendar22 Apr 2025

The next-gen hybrid system is claimed to offer 45% better fuel efficiency and 19% more power compared with ICE powertrai...

Horse Powertrain reveals hybrid conversion for electric cars

auther Autocar Professional Bureau calendar19 Apr 2025

Engine-making joint venture of Geely and the Renault Group announces new hybrid powertrain that fits into the same space...

Aisin to produce hybrid motor for Mitsubishi in Thailand

auther Autocar Professional Bureau calendar06 Apr 2025

The hybrid drive motor and gearbox, will be produced at Aisin Powertrain (Thailand) Co for use in the Mitsubishi XForce ...