One of the most remarkable custom cars Ford Motors displayed at the 2021 SEMA exhibition was a Ford Mustang Mach-E GT that had been heavily modified with EV speed records in mind. Along with other improvements, the car will use 3D printed components from the new AON M2+ in its quest to become the first production electric car to achieve 200 mph at the 2022 Bonneville Speed Week.
Fast, Customized End-Use Parts for Automotive Applications
The Austin Hatcher Foundation, in charge of outfitting the car, went to high temperature industrial 3D printing to develop and create high strength, show quality parts due to a lack of time and slow supply chains. The parts, which comprise rear wing uprights and wing edges specifically tailored to the Mach-body, E's were printed in Carbon Fiber filled ABS, a typical plastic used in injection molding. The parts went from prototype to show-ready parts with a little light sanding and painting in about two weeks, as opposed to eight weeks and counting with conventional manufacturing.
3D Printing Beyond Short-Run, Customized Parts
Over the past ten years, the use of additive manufacturing in the automobile sector has expanded significantly beyond prototype and short-run bespoke parts. High-temperature 3D printing innovations and high-performance polymers like PEEK, PEKK, and ULTEMTM enable the creation of parts that are quicker, stronger, and lighter than metal ones. With quick, specialized manufacturing aids, these materials are being used for part consolidation, light weighting, and accelerating production capabilities.
Joining the 200mph Club to Help Fight Cancer
In addition to the rear wing, the Mach-E was equipped with Brembo brakes, a custom carbon front splitter, 20-inch Rotiform E-159 OZR wheels, and adjustable Motion Control Suspension to improve handling. The Austin Hatcher foundation hopes to be the first production EV to reach 200 mph at the 2022 Bonneville Speed Week thanks to this as well as other undisclosed modifications and a speed governor that has been removed. The car will be auctioned off after the event to raise money for the foundation's efforts to support families of children with cancer.
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