Stratasys Details FDM 3D Printing Collaboration with General Motors

Stratasys is highlighting its long-term additive manufacturing partnership with General Motors. The company is detailing how the automaker employs FDM industrial production systems across its North and South American assembly facilities. The collaboration focuses on scaling manufacturing efficiency and will be featured in a video presentation at the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) 2026.

"General Motors demonstrates what becomes possible when additive manufacturing is fully integrated into production operations," said Yoav Zeif, Chief Executive Officer of Stratasys.

Industrial Applications of FDM Technology

General Motors utilizes the Stratasys F900 FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) production printers to support manufacturing requirements. These systems enable the production of factory aids, including custom jigs, fixtures, and specialized tooling, along with select end-use components. By shifting these tasks to 3D printing, the automaker aims to reduce lead times for plant-floor requirements compared to traditional subtractive manufacturing methods.

"Our greatest asset is our people," said Doneen McDowell, Manufacturing Vice President for GM North America Full Size Truck and Large SUV Assembly Operations. "If we can give people the tools so they can own the outcome within their footprint, and then take those solutions and replicate them across our footprint where they apply, we’ll get the best outcome."

Understanding FDM in Automotive Assembly

Fused Deposition Modeling is an additive manufacturing process that builds parts layer-by-layer by extruding thermoplastic materials. In an industrial setting like a GM assembly plant, FDM is used for bridge manufacturing or creating custom ergonomic tools that assist workers on the line. Unlike traditional injection molding, which requires expensive, permanent steel tooling, FDM allows engineers to modify designs digitally and print updated versions overnight. This facilitates rapid iteration for factory floor improvements.

Financial Context

As Stratasys emphasizes its role in automotive production, the company’s stock (NASDAQ: SSYS) was trading at $7.67, up 1.99%, as of September 16, 2026. The company’s focus on integrating its hardware into established production environments like those of General Motors is a core component of its strategy to move beyond prototyping and into high-volume industrial utility.