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Local Motors reveals 3D-printed car design

Local Motors has chosen the design it will 3D-print during the course of the International Manufacturing Technology Show (ITMS) in Chicago, IL, which runs from 8-13 September. Called Strati, the concept was judged the best entry in Local Motors' first 3D Printed Car Design Challenge. It was created by Italian designer Michele Anoé, and his design 'will inform and influence' the car to be printed during the course of the ITMS.

Volkswagen plans 4 million cars from one platform

Volkswagen is pushing the global-platform concept to a level unprecedented in the auto industry, introducing a modular platform this summer that eventually will be the basis of microcars, sedans, crossovers and SUVs for its four largest brands. While automakers now share platforms across brands and sometimes even segments, the VW initiative that starts this summer is far more ambitious than anything seen so far. By 2017, some analysts estimate, the MQB platform that debuts with the Audi A3 eventually will be used in 4 million units a year--close to half of VW's annual production.

Porsche whiffs on customer care

Porsche is making a mistake that could take years—and millions of dollars—to fix, and you might not even be aware of it. Well, that is, until now. The mistake started with Porsche 911 and Boxster models sold in the U.S.