Following some final adjustments, the customized 3D-print bodyform full bucket seat is now available as part of the new Performance Parts offering from Porsche Tequipment. The seat is suitable for various Boxster, Cayman and 911 models. From February 2022 onwards, it can also be ordered from Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur as a standard feature and it will be integrated into the Porsche Car Configurator at this point too. In addition to its unique look, the new central section of the seat is its main innovation: parts of the cushion and backrest surfaces are produced using a 3D printer and are available in three different rigidity grades, meaning the seat can be customized to suit the customer’s specific needs.
A select group of Porsche drivers has been thoroughly testing the new 3D-print bodyform full bucket seat at various events, including the Manthey-Racing Nordschleife Trackdays 20/21. The pilot phase generated plenty of valuable customer feedback.
“Seats adapted to individual drivers have been available for a long time in professional motorsport. Now Porsche also offers road-approved customization with different rigidity grades as standard,” says Porsche test driver Lars Kern. “During the initial test drives I was impressed by the ergonomics – the slightly lower seat position and improved thigh support are similar to what you get from a seat in a racing car. The passive ventilation is impressive too.” Compared to conventional full bucket seats, the new seat is also more than eight percent lighter.
3D-printed bodyform full bucket seat in the Mission R
The new Porsche Mission R, which has just celebrated its world premiere at the IAA Mobility motor show, also features a 3D-print bodyform full bucket seat. This concept study of a fully electric GT racing vehicle embodies Porsche’s vision for how customer motorsport could look in the future.
Manufacturing on Demand
The 3D-printed bodyform full bucket seat is available for all Porsche models that are offered with the conventional seat (order number Q1K or P11). The seat can also be retrofitted in vehicles that have already been delivered, and some models can even have the seat fitted on the passenger side. The assembly process takes just a few minutes at a Porsche Centre. The price per seat is 2,677.50 euros. Availability details are shown below:
Innovative manufacturing process
The 3D-printed bodyform full bucket seat is based on Porsche’s lightweight full bucket seat and features a sandwich construction: base support made from expanded polypropylene (EPP) is bonded to a breathable comfort layer consisting of a mixture of polyurethane-based materials made using additive manufacturing – in other words using a 3D printer. The components are clipped together. This innovative joining technology means that the seat generates no emissions associated with adhesives.
The outer skin of the seat is made of Race-Tex. This non-slip material offers plenty of support in the seat and the unique perforated surface enables improved passive ventilation.
Window panels show exposed, full-color sections of the 3D-printed lattice structure and give the full bucket seat an unmistakable design. Initially, customers can choose between Black, Guards Red and Racing Yellow for these design elements. In February, Arctic Grey, Ultramarine and Shark Blue will be added to the color range. Porsche is planning another customization for the medium term: 3D-printed body form full bucket seats adapted to the individual body contours of each customer.
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Author: Davide Sher
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