These 3D-Printed RC Vehicles Are The Future Of Customisable Fun

If you can think it, you can print it. And then race it. The trend of 3D printing car parts is nothing new. Now, with cheaper materials and some open source designs, RC builders are getting in on the 3D printing action. Check out the 3D creations below from of few inspiring people.

The 3D print design for this chassis is available for download here, with updates added whenever the design receives improvement. It comes from YouTube user Muellerr, who is a long time RC hobbyist. He has several projects in the works, including the Volvo C30 body to go on this chassis. His other works include designing RC planes, multicopters and 3D scanners.

Creator Phillip Houghton designed this RC trike using AutoCAD and his fascination with the Invader TC-3 sports trike. While most RC hobbyists using 3D printers are improving upon designs that have already been proven to succeed, Houghton takes aim at building a completely new vehicle. He wanted a challenge that would help him learn more about tuning his cars for improved handling. With a three wheeled project in working order, he is still making minor adjustments to improve his creation in every way imaginable. That is the great things about printing your parts; they can easily be reprinted and replaced.

YouTube user Moo Spyker uploaded this impressive video of his snowblower creation printed entirely from a modest 3D printer. It is a redesign of the Kyosho Blizzard SR that replaces its plough with a working snow blower. The nearly 35cm spread can clear up snow 10-15cm deep, so it won’t be of much use in a big storm, but it is a huge improvement to the Kyosho model. It is still certainly an entertaining way of getting the job done when it is time to clear away the snow after a small downpour. Follow the progress of the snowblower project in this RC Snowcats forum. The parts, and possible plans for the parts, will soon go for sale in three different kits.

Designer Daniel Norée has over 20 years of experience in 3D and industrial design. Lucky for us, he has spent a majority of his free time in the last few years designing an open source RC Truggy project that can be found here. His project is one of the most advanced so far. He even prints many of the parts that others have avoided like tyres, rims, inner drive shafts and diffs. This dedication has its price, as Daniel states: “several hundred hours were spent on development so far and breaking of more parts than I can count, but it’s still worth it!”

The team of Italian designers at the 3D Racers Game has developed a casual 3D racing game like no other. Players can design their cars free online through their website, order the pieces or print them from home, assemble their car and race with mates on a huge PVC mat adorned with paper track side models. Their project has gained worldwide attention, as it brings casual racing games to life with tangible model cars. Early supporters on its Indiegogo campaign can preorder a game set. Within two weeks of starting its fundraising goals, the team already raised 94 per cent of its goal. Obviously, the world needs more racing at home.

Check out the OpenRC Project online to discuss with other hobbyists freely about their designs. You will be able to get advice and free file downloads for building your next machine. If you don’t have a 3D printer (and don’t worry, most of us don’t have one) just visit a site like MakeXYZ where you can order your parts for pick-up through nearby 3D printers.