Ford Lets Customers Download, 3-D Print Model Cars

(CBS SF) — Move over Matchbox and Hot Wheels. You can make your own model Ford car or truck at home with a 3-D printer.

The automaker has become the first car company allowing customers to purchase 3-D printable files. Currently, files are only available for a limited number of vehicles, including the Ford GT and Mustang Shelby GT350R sports cars and the F-150 raptor pickup. Additional vehicles will be available for download soon.

“At Ford, we’re using 3D printing every day to rapidly prototype parts, and now we want to share that fun with our fans.” Ford licensing manager Mark Bentley said in a statement.

The car company is hoping to capitalize in the growing number of 3-D printers. Ford cited figures from Juniper research, which estimates sales of 1 million 3-D printers by 2018.

3-D files, which currently go for $4.99 and pre-printed models for $39 can be found here.

FORD GT MAKES DRAMATIC ENTRANCE AT E3 2015; TO DEBUT EXCLUSIVELY FOR FORZA MOTORSPORT 6

The ultra-high-performance Ford GT descended from the rafters at E3 2015 at the Galen Center in Los Angeles today, making its world gameplay premiere as cover car for the next iteration of the leading race simulation franchise for Xbox – Forza Motorsport 6 – launching exclusively for Xbox One. Ford GT, which arrives in select markets globally late next year, serves as a technology showcase for the company, with ultra-efficient EcoBoost® engine performance, advanced aerodynamics and lightweight carbon fiber construction. While only a few of the world’s top professional race car drivers will get to pilot Ford GT in the GTE-Endurance Pro class at Le Mans next year, millions of fans around the globe will have the opportunity to drive the all-new supercar when it debuts exclusively for Forza Motorsport 6 on Sept. 15. The Forza Motorsport 6 vehicle lineup also includes Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang and F-150 Raptor. More news about Forza Motorsport activities at E3 2015 is available at forzamotorsport.net.