Bosch and Nikon SLM Solutions 3D Print a Full V8 Engine Block

What they built

Bosch's Additive Solution Center in Nuremberg has printed a complete V8 engine block as a single piece. The part came off a Nikon SLM Solutions NXG XII 600 machine using AlSi10Mg aluminum alloy. No molds, no tooling, no assembly of multiple castings.

Nikon SLM Solutions calls it a clear signal that metal additive manufacturing is moving beyond prototyping. The company says the engine block proves the technology can handle complex, high-value automotive applications and compete with conventional manufacturing.

Why this matters for car makers

Traditional engine blocks require expensive tooling and long lead times. Additive manufacturing removes both constraints. The Bosch and Nikon team integrated cooling channels directly into the block, optimized topology to cut weight, and consolidated what would normally be a multi-component assembly into one printed part.

The partnership is specifically targeting automotive tier 1 and tier 2 suppliers. By working with Bosch, a major automation supplier, Nikon SLM Solutions wants to move additive manufacturing from capability to production reality. Their collaboration covers materials, process parameters, software integration, and design for additive manufacturing.

The bottom line

A functional V8 engine block is not a demo piece. It is a drivable, stress-bearing component. If tier 1 suppliers adopt this approach, the automotive supply chain could see shorter development cycles, lighter engines, and fewer assembly steps. The V8 block is just the start.