In a groundbreaking leap for the automotive industry, advanced 3D-printed cars are no longer a futuristic dream but a startling reality, with several models already hitting the roads. This revolutionary technology is reshaping how vehicles are manufactured, promising unprecedented speed and efficiency.

The spotlight shines on Local Motors, which unveiled the world’s first fully 3D-printed car at a Chicago tradeshow. Built from a blend of carbon fiber and plastic, this innovative vehicle took just two days to print and an additional day to refine, weighing in at a mere 1,000 kilograms. The potential for rapid production is staggering; future models could be completed in as little as six weeks, with printing times slashed to just 24 hours.

Meanwhile, another contender, the Strata, an electric car also crafted in Chicago, showcases the versatility of this technology. After a four-and-a-half-month design-to-finish process, Local Motors’ CEO hinted that the timeline for producing similar vehicles could drastically shorten, signaling a seismic shift in automotive manufacturing.

Critics remain skeptical, pointing to manufacturing speed as a critical hurdle. However, the 3D printing automotive market is projected to explode, with revenues soaring from $600 million to an estimated $2.3 billion by 2021. As the world watches, the first 3D-printed electric car, the LSEV, prepares for mass production, boasting a compact size and a design that challenges conventional cars.

In a stunning display of innovation, a Chinese tech company has also joined the race, introducing a bright orange electric sedan that costs a mere $1,770 to produce. This vehicle, capable of reaching speeds up to 40 kilometers per hour, took just five days to print, marking a significant milestone for 3D printing in the automotive sector.

As these advanced 3D-printed cars roll out, the industry stands on the brink of a revolution, ready to redefine transportation as we know it. The future is here, and it’s being printed in three dimensions.