honda and kabuku 3D print an all-electric mini van

honda and kabuku inc. collaborate to unveil one of the largest products produced in japan using 3D printing technology based on the idea of a variable design platform. the mini van features the japanese-automaker’s micro EV technology, used on its ultra-compact electric vehicle. meet the ‘hato sablé’ delivery van.

hato sablé, if you’re unaware, is japanese dove-shaped shortbread, and it is the prime cargo of this 3D-printed tiny EV. the car itself was jointly developed by honda and kabuku inc, based on a variable design platform and unveiled at this year’s CEATEC japan show. the chassis itself was built using a lightweight pipe-frame structure, but the body panels and luggage space were all produced using a 3D printer. manufacturing things like this isn’t new, of course.

power comes from micro EV technology, which is already used on the ‘MC-β’ ultra compact EV in japan–with 15 bhp, and is capable of traveling up to 50 miles/80 kilometers at a heady top speed of 43 mph/69 kmph. it weighs 600 kg. it is 2.5 m in length; 1.2 m in width; and stands 1.5 m tall.

this particular micro EV only has space for a driver, though, because of its ‘generous space to carry deliveries of sweet treats’. that’ll be the dove-shaped shortbread, toshiyama’s ‘most famous product’.