In April, another automotive industry awards ceremony was held in New York – the World Car Awards (WCA) 2023. The highlight of the evening were the spectacular, 3D-printed trophies, which were presented to the winners of individual categories. The seven trophies were manufactured by Replique and designed by CALLUM, led by legendary car designer Ian Callum.
Both companies were selected by the WCA organizers with the task of designing and producing a new, unique and visually impressive trophy that would be worthy of prestigious awards and their winners. Offering the first fully encrypted 3D printing platform that enables secure and sustainable on-demand parts delivery, Replique has produced PA12 trophies using SLS technology through its network of trusted partners. After printing, the trophies went through the post-processing stage. Among the procedures used was the steam smoothing technique, which provided a perfectly smooth surface for applying the bright gold, thereby enhancing their aesthetic appeal.
Hyundai was one of the winners, winning three awards for its IONIQ 6 model, including the coveted “World Car of the Year” award. The global COO of the company accepted the trophies.
The concept of the new trophy refreshes the theme of the WCA logotype and the original award, showing the road circling the globe in a modern and emotional style, symbolizing movement. As the automotive industry adopts additive manufacturing technology for its unique benefits such as lowering costs, improving product performance and increasing supply chain flexibility, WCA decided to use this technology for the first time in the creation of a new trophy. Thanks to the use of 3D printing, the construction of the new trophy also represents numerous technological advances in vehicle design and production.
The full list of categories and winners of the World Car Awards 2023 are: World Car of the Year: Hyundai IONIQ 6; World Luxury Car: Lucid Air; World Performance Car: Kia EV6 GT; World Electric Vehicle: Hyundai IONIQ 6; World Urban Car: Citroën C3; World Car Design of the Year: Hyundai IONIQ 6; World Car Person of the Year: SangYup Lee, Vice President, Head of Hyundai and Genesis Global Design Center, Hyundai Motor Company.
Replique was founded by BASF employees from the Materials Science and Digitalization departments. The company offers a secure digital platform that easily integrates with existing systems (e.g. ERP systems, e-commerce) and enables 3D printers to deliver parts on demand to customers via a global and decentralized network of over 60 facilities. As a comprehensive solution, Replique supports its customers throughout the entire chain – including design, selection of technologies and materials, and digital warehousing.
CALLUM is a design and engineering company that creates bespoke products and limited editions. The company focuses on design, lifestyle and travel, undertaking projects that intrigue, excite and tell stories. It is a collaboration of talented people with experience in the field of art, audio, automotive, fashion and motorsport brands.
Source: Replique press materials