22. Read the text, then match each question to its answer.

THE IMPACT OF 3D PRINTING AT FORD MOTOR COMPANY
The automotive industry has always been at the forefront of adopting advanced technologies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product performance. 3D printing has emerged as a game-changer: it allows the production of complex geometries, rapid prototyping, and lightweight components, transforming how vehicles are designed and manufactured.

■ The problem
Ford began exploring 3D printing technologies to improve efficiency and product innovation. It faced increasing pressure to reduce time-to-market for new vehicle models while meeting cost and weight reduction targets, and traditional manufacturing methods often involved long tooling processes and high costs for prototyping and custom parts.

■ The solution
Ford implemented 3D printing to address these challenges in the following ways:
• Rapid prototyping: using 3D printing, Ford could create prototypes of parts in days rather than weeks. This accelerated the design iteration process, allowing engineers to test and refine designs quickly;
• Tooling and fixtures: the company used 3D printing to produce jigs, fixtures, and assembly tools at a fraction of the cost and time required by conventional methods;
• Lightweight parts: Ford leveraged 3D printing to design lightweight, complex parts that were previously impossible to manufacture with traditional techniques. This contributed to reducing vehicle weight and improving fuel efficiency;
• Customisation: 3D printing enabled the production of parts for limited-edition vehicles and aftermarket solutions, enhancing customer satisfaction.

■ Outcome
• Cost savings: Ford reported up to 90% cost savings for prototyping and tooling.
• Improved performance: the use of lightweight parts led to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
• Innovation: engineers could explore innovative designs that were previously constrained by traditional manufacturing methods.

What effect has 3D printing had on prototyping time?How has 3D printing influenced customisation?Why has 3D printing been innovative for Ford engineers?What forced Ford to explore 3D printing potentialities?Why has 3D printing been so revolutionary in the automotive field?What was the impact of the production of lightweight parts on environment?