3D printing has been an integral part of Daimler's operations for over 25 years, with extensive experience in all traditional additive manufacturing techniques. At the Sindelfingen and Untertürkheim plants alone, around 100,000 components have been produced using this method and delivered to development teams or production lines. Currently, the focus is on creating models, visual aids, prototypes, tools, and fixtures. As 3D printing offers significant advantages in rapid prototyping, Daimler continues to invest in expanding this area.
In passenger car production, 3D printing is used to develop customized tools and equipment, such as adjustment and assembly aids, which help streamline the manufacturing process. This not only improves efficiency but also reduces costs and weight compared to traditionally manufactured parts, enhancing workplace ergonomics.
In the spare parts business, 3D printing provides a flexible solution for special customer requests and classic vehicles, especially when traditional manufacturing no longer supports tooling. Since 2016, Daimler has been using additive manufacturing to produce plastic parts for commercial vehicles like the Unimog. Over 30 Mercedes-Benz truck spare parts are now approved for use with 3D-printed components. In the bus sector, custom solutions are increasingly being developed through additive methods, showing strong growth potential.
However, large-scale production via 3D printing still faces challenges. The limited build volume of printers and the time-consuming layer-by-layer process—often taking hours or even days—make it less efficient for mass production. Additionally, the cost of powder-based materials remains relatively high.
Looking ahead, Daimler believes that continuous improvements in 3D printing technology, including more automated and continuous processes, will eventually enable broader adoption in large-scale manufacturing. This could revolutionize how parts are made, offering new possibilities for customization and efficiency.
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