Quote:
Originally Posted by Viperfreak2
Watch the current speed of CFRP production at BMW. Then think about the speed of a modern stamping line pressing aluminum or steel body panels:
When the carbon fiber parts can be produced as quickly as the steel, then I'll believe.
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I don't think BMW's current carbon fibre cycle times are representative of where we are heading. The new intermediate materials that Teijin (link provided above) are talking about will make a big difference by allowing high speed press molding. They say they have gone to one minute for a cabin frame.
I wonder if there are further time savings by not having to paint the panels in a separate step after assembly?
It isn't just BMW. Half a dozen manufacturers are about to debut the same technology. I understand that BMW and VW will use the same process.
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2007 X3 3.0si, 6 MT, Premium, White
Retired:
2008 535i, 6 MT, M Sport, Premium, Space Grey
2003 X5 3.0 Steptronic, Premium, Titanium Silver
2002 325xi 5 MT, Steel Grey
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