Porsche is using 3D printing

Porsche is using 3D printing to make 911 GT2 RS pistons

Porsche has revealed it is using 3D printers to make the pistons for its high-performance 911 GT2 RS model.

The German car maker says it has already been using the technology in prototype vehicles and when remanufacturing parts for classic sports cars. However, now it is using 3D printing for making the pistons for its flagship performance car, which it says reduces the item’s weight by 10%.

Frank Ickinger from the advanced drive development department at Porsche explained: “Thanks to the new, lighter pistons, we can increase the engine speed, lower the temperature load on the pistons and optimise combustion. “This makes it possible to get up to 30bhp more power from the 690bhp biturbo engine, while at the same time improving efficiency.”

Porsche says there are various processes for 3D printing, but they all create shapes by layering materials. The 911

GT2 RS pistons were created using a technique that involves a laser that heats and melts a metal powder to create the shape.

The company is expanding its use of 3D printing. For example, bucket seats have been offered since May that have a central section made using the technique, while Porsche Classic has been using additive processes to reproduce plastic, steel and alloy parts that are no longer manufactured.

Combustion engines are set to remain an integral part of performance car maker Cupra’s range, despite the firm’s increasing push towards EVs and hybrids.

Once sportier versions of Seats, Cupra split from the Spanish car manufacturer in 2018 to establish its own performance models as a standalone brand.

While still heavily tied with Seat - hence models like the Cupra Ateca and Cupra Leon, which are both based on the Spanish firm’s cars - this year will see the first bespoke Cupra model launched with the Formentor.

This will be available with both plug-in hybrid power and a petrol engine, while last week Cupra unveiled the new el-Born as its first EV, which will offer a range of up to 310 miles.

With the firm having a noticeable push towards electrified models, question marks had been raised as to whether regular combustion models would remain in its line-up.

However, Cupra chief executive Wayne Griffiths has confirmed that they will, saying: “I think we need the combustion engine and we shall have them in the future - they just need to be efficient on emissions.

“I don’t think people will go from a 300bhp four-cylinder petrol engine to an electric model, I think a lot will go via a plug-in hybrid.

“So I think we have to offer all three powertrains, and we’ll have to see in what markets which technology takes off, and prepare for that.”