The company will use 3D printing to offer a range of customisation options. Mini will be offering its customers the ability to design their own exterior and interior trim bits for their cars. An online configuration software will allow you to do this. On offer are custom 3D-printed side indicator inlays and dashboard trim, as well as personalised sill plates and LED puddle lights. The indicator inlays and dashboard facia are available in five different colours and can display text, simple images and textured patterns.
The illuminated sill plates can also display text in the owner’s handwriting, basic graphics and even things like star constellations. You can also personalise the puddle lights. The components will be manufactured in Munich and each component is subject to the same BMW Group crash and durability tests as any other part of the car.
Mini has teamed up with Hewlett Packard to refine the process and this will be on offer in select markets initially.