Helixx Has Unveiled Its 3D Printed Electric Delivery Van

The ever-evolving 3D printing industry has found new impetus in the transportation sector. The latest breakthrough comes from Helixx, a UK franchise specializing in mobility solutions. In a world where environmental concerns are increasingly pressing, the market for electric vehicles is booming and additive manufacturing is one of the tools that is being used to make more efficient, sustainable solutions for consumers.

Take for example the latest breakthrough from Helixx’s: an all-electric, 3D-printed, single-seat van with a central driving position. This innovation aims to support sustainable economic development in emerging megacities. But this is just the beginning of the story, as Helixx has big ambitions for urban mobility.

Seamless manufacturing means faster, more efficient vehicle assembly

The Helixx delivery van is compact, measuring just 3.2 meters long and 1.5 meters wide. Yet it offers an impressive 2,100-liter capacity and a 500kg payload at the rear. Access is facilitated by a spacious rear door, while the load compartment extends to 140 cm in length, allowing perfect insertion of a shipping pallet. What’s more, as a single-seater pickup, it frees up extra cargo space at the front, avoiding the need for adjustments for left-hand drive markets.

While technical details of the powertrain remain confidential, the van’s design relies on 3D printing for its structural and aesthetic elements, greatly simplifying the assembly process. The body consists of five major components that fit together perfectly, eliminating the need for welds and cutting production costs by 50%. Helixx plans to extend this strategy on a global scale, bringing these revolutionary vans together in “Mobility Hubs” where 3D printing would be the cornerstone of the production of every vehicle component.

Helixx’s entry into the 3D-printed commercial vehicle market could potentially revolutionize local vehicle production methods and open up new prospects in emerging markets. The company hopes to pave the way for a series of innovative commercial vehicles rolling out a full range of commercial vehicles. These will include a traditional pickup truck, a closed-body cab with rear seating and an open-body vehicle offering unique flexibility for passengers wishing to get in and out easily. But for now, Helixx will start production in 2024, initially launching a series of 100 vehicles for the UK market. To find out more, click HERE.

The van’s steering wheel is also made using 3D printing

What do you think of Helixx’s 3D-built delivery vans? Let us know in a comment below or on our LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages! Don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter here, the latest 3D printing news straight to your inbox! You can also find all our videos on our YouTube channel. 

*All Photo Credits: Helixx