Luxury car manufacturer Lamborghini has entered the realm of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) with the unveiling of a space-themed artwork dubbed the Lamborghini Space Key.
The exclusive project is centered around a 3D printed carbon fiber block that Lamborghini sent to the International Space Station (ISS) back in 2019 as part of a joint research project. Since returning to Earth, the piece has formed the basis of the Space Key, linked to an exclusive and purely digital artwork by an undisclosed artist.
Just five Space Keys, each linked to an exclusive space-themed NFT, have been created and will be officially revealed and auctioned in the next few weeks.
“Innovation is a deeply rooted part of the Lamborghini DNA,” said Stephan Winkelmann, Chairman, and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. “As a leading company for carbon fiber composite materials within the automotive sector we pushed boundaries two and a half years ago with the joint research project in space. Now entering the metaverse is gain proof of Lamborghini always setting sail for new horizons.
“The NFT world has been calling to us, and we are excited about engaging with this very passionate and innovative community.”
3D printing at Lamborghini
Lamborghini has leveraged 3D printing technology for commercial purposes with its supercars for some time, first starting with Stratasys’ FDM technology to produce end-use parts for some of its non-critical components.
The firm went on to sign a deal with 3D printer OEM Carbon in 2019 to 3D print parts for its Urus Super SUVs, namely textured fuel caps and air duct clip components. Later that year, Lamborghini and Carbon expanded their partnership to 3D print the central and lateral dashboard air vents for the car manufacturer’s first hybrid production car, the Sián FKP 37.
During the pandemic, Lamborghini also played its part in aiding Italy’s Covid-19 response by re-directing its in-house 3D…
