Local Motors says this community member-submitted design will now move into
“intensive testing and development phases,” with goal of beginning manufacturing in early 2017. The open-top, surf-themed LM3D Swim looks to be a two-seat roadster with a fixed door-less structure, two-tone paint scheme, and mounted headlights. The thermoplastic body, created in partnership with Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC), apparently combines with other technologies from companies like Siemens and IBM to yield a safer and more efficient driving experience in traffic.
There’s no word on mechanical details for the LM3D Swim, but we’re betting it doesn’t deviate too far from the system featured on the Strati. That likely means the battery and electric motor from a Renault Twizy, and a minimal number of other moving parts to minimize present and future tooling costs.
There are obstacles in the way though, as the “microfactory” that will build these futuristic little machines doesn’t exactly exist yet. The facility is under construction currently in Knoxville, Tennessee, with an estimated completion date by the end of this year.
Local Motors also announced it will be pre-selling the LM3D Swim in spring of 2016, with a targeted starting price of $53,000.
