We can already 3D print cars, soon houses, definitely furniture, so why not a scooter? Especially when it is a minimalist electric project such as Paolo, the recently released concept by Spanish designer Josep Bolart?
Paolo is modern in just about every way, starting from how it was presented to global media, through a Twitter launch. Its elegant concept designs include clear information and it received plenty of social media visibility.
It offers low cost, sustainable, electric mobility and a sleek minimalist design that has immediately inspired many, who instantly imagined it being 3D printed (although that was not necessarily one of the designer’s main focuses, originally).
Since they run cold (instead of requiring a high heat thermal reaction), any electric scooter or vehicle could theoretically be 3D printed using some high performance plastics, such as nylon or carbon fiber-infused filaments. And the large size 3D printers that could be used to make it are starting to become more affordable. Given that the design is already drawn using 3D CAD software, the transition is relatively simple.
The 3D printing community, which is generally made of of people who are sensible to environment and sustainable mobility themes, has already become interested in the project, which could evolve into a collaborative effort to bring this product to market, even without the support of large manufacturers. This is exactly what 3D printing is all about.
Getting back to Paolo, it has been envisioned to have a 2 kW motor with an electromagnetic combined breaking system (also less likely to generate high temperatures), on-the-road adjustable power regulation buttons, adjustable seat an integrated battery pack, LCD display and direct mobile app support. 3D printing is very likely going to be the chosen manufacturing technique for it, when it will go into production next year.
