When it comes to 3D printing, there is no stepping back. Airbus is now producing a 3D printed electric motorcycle called Light Rider, a slight diversion from the plane products they usually produce.
3D Printed Electric Motorcycle (Source: AP)
Made by aviation giant’s German APWorks subsidiary, the Light Rider is made of a Scalmalloy, an aluminium powder that is corrosion-resistant, which combines the low weight of aluminium with almost the specific strength of titanium. The motorcycle is made of thousands of thin layers just 60 microns thick. This reduces the weight compared to other motorcycles to 30% due to its hollow frame. It weighs only 77 lbs.
3D Printed Electric Motorcycle (Source: 3Ders)
Joachim Zettler, CEO of Airbus APWorks GmbH, said, “The complex and branched hollow structure couldn’t have been produced using conventional production technologies such as milling or welding.”
3D Printed Electric Motorcycle (Source: Airbus Group)
Source: TECH-TUBE
Source: Airbus APWorks GmbH
This cannot be compared to a Harley, though, as can only hit a top speed of 49 mph, and needs electric recharging every after 37 miles. Light Rider might only be ideal for city driving.
Airbus is only taking limited orders, so if you are willing to pay 50,000 euros ($56,095), plus tax, for the 3D printed bad boy, then be part of those lucky 50 orders.
