Local 3D printing company Stratasys announced Tuesday that it is collaborating with Jay Leno to create custom parts for the comedian's antique car collection.
The partnership will allow Leno and his company Big Dog Garage to have access to Stratasys' manufacturing capabilities. This includes Stratasys' Fortus 3D printer, which the company says makes it simple to produce complex manufacturing prototypes and finished parts effectively and efficiently.
Eden Prairie-based Stratasys has previously collaborated with Big Dog Garage on other products. By utilizing 3D printing, Leno's company is able to recreate parts that no longer exist or would be too time-consuming and expensive to create using traditional processes.
"As a lover of classic cars, I'm always looking to push the boundaries of what's possible in creation and re-creation of these vehicles – and 3D printing is integral to this process," Leno said in a release. "After working with Stratasys for years to drive the ultimate 3D printing innovation, I'm really excited about this new Fortus machine and where it takes us next."
Stratasys' collaboration with Big Dog is an extension of its new Performance Partner Program, which launched last month. This project brings together leaders in auto racing, competitive sailing and supersonic travel to "push the limits of additive manufacturing in these extreme environments," Stratasys said in a statement.
This is far from the first time that Stratasys has made headlines for one of its creations. Earlier this fall, the company collaborated with designers to create pieces for a show during New York Fashion Week. It has also made figures for the stop-motion animation film "Missing Link," starring Hugh Jackman and Zach Galifianakis. And in 2018, Stratasys assisted with the creation of a special luge for Team USA during the Olympics.
