For classic car owners, finding replacement parts is often difficult and sometimes impossible. In 2017, Nissan established its Nissan’s NISMO Heritage Parts program for the on-demand production of discontinued replacement parts. Four years later, getting parts for the Skyline GT-R R32, R33 and R34 will be even easier and more sustainable thanks to 3D printing.
“Our Heritage customers are the most passionate car enthusiasts in the world, and we are dedicated to ensuring they can enjoy their cars as long as possible,” said Kent O’Hara, Nissan senior vice president. “We are excited that SOLIZE and HP can help us please our customers and achieve our goals in a sustainable way.”
While offering to produce those parts was quite welcomed by owners of Nissan’s classic models, the actual production and storage of the parts was not the most cost-effective method for the manufacturer. Knowing that demand was high, Nissan started exploring other options and turned to SOLIZE and HP to begin developing a sustainable, just-in-time production method for specific parts.
“We are seeing leaders of industry like Nissan recognize the massive cost implications of storage, molds and logistics for replacement parts and how industrial 3D printing can help,” said Jon Wayne, HP 3D printing and digital manufacturing global commercial business head. “Digital manufacturing is a viable, long-term solution for accelerating production, transforming supply chains and activating industries such as automotive. Together with SOLIZE, we are focused on helping businesses transform their manufacturing with sustainable digital production.”
SOLIZE and Nissan first set out to determine which parts would be best for 3D printing. The two companies then turned to HP for its HP Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) system, which produces highly accurate and durable parts at fast speeds. The technology also ensures more sustainable production. The first part the collaborators tackled was a plastic harness protector for the Skyline using HP’s PA 11 powder, which allows for more design flexibility and has high mechanical properties.
Along with ending up with a high-quality part, this partnership is making it possible for Nissan to offer a virtual inventory. Instead of heading to an overflowing warehouse, parts can be printed when needed, which speeds up delivery time, reduces waste and is more cost-effective for the buyer.
Since the Heritage Parts Program was established, Nissan’s parts offerings have grown from 80 to more than 300, and include options body panels—thanks to Nissan developing an efficient production method for low volumes—to crank pulleys and bumper clips. While not all parts are ideal for 3D printing or other methods, the company is working on developing substitutes as well as determining viable parts to 3D print on other models.
Interested in other ways 3D printing is changing the automotive industry? Check out Aston Martin Goes Additive to Develop New Suspension System in Six Months and 3D Printing Takes Pole Position in Formula One 2021 Season.