McLaren inks partnership with 3D printing specialist Stratasys

McLaren and technology company Stratasys have announced a new four-year partnership under which the specialised 3D printing company will supply McLaren Racing with a suite of 3D printing and additive manufacturing solutions.

3D priniting, which refers to processes used to synthesize a three-dimensional object in which successive layers of material are formed under the control of a computer.

The technology has been progressively integrated into many manufacturing industries, from aerospace to healthcare, and of course the automobile industry.

Stratasys will work closely with the McLaren team as it ramps up its rapid manufacturing capacity at the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking.

Under the agreement, Stratasys will supply McLaren Racing with its latest FDM and PolyJet based 3D printing solutions and cutting-edge materials for visual and functional prototyping, production tooling including composite tooling, and customised production parts.

"The ability to rapidly model, build and evaluate new components is an invaluable asset for any fast-moving and dynamic racing organisation," said McLaren's racing director Eric Boullier.

"Our new partnership with Stratasys will not only increase our output in that area, but will also allow us to dynamically explore and utilise the cutting-edge of Stratasys’ new 3D printing innovations and solutions.

"It has become clear that motorsport's reliance on rapid prototyping and additive manufacturing, and the ability to radically cut time to market, is increasing, and we look forward to being well served by our new alliance with Stratasys."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.