The car personalization industry has exploded in the last few years, especially in the ultra-expensive automobile segment. A trend that can be easily seen by noticing how well the special divisions of luxury automakers dedicated to customization are doing. Buyers in this segment are ready to shell out any amount to make their machines the most exclusive in the world; a reason why manufacturers are going to extreme lengths to attract more customers. However, Porsche has announced a new personalization option that can be simply be described as foolish. The Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, the manufacturer’s in-house personalization division, is now offering customers the option to put a giant version of their own fingerprint on the hood of their new 911. “Individuality is very important for Porsche customers. And no design can be more personal than your own fingerprint,” says Alexander Fabig, Vice President Individualization and Classic.
The gimmicky personalization option by Porsche might sound silly by the technology used to achieve it is in fact quite interesting. The direct printing technology was actually developed in the paint shop of Porsche’s Zuffenhausen training center in Germany. With the help of this technology, more detailed designs can be created that aren’t possible with conventional painting. Alexander Fabig further added: “Porsche is a pioneer in personalisation and has developed the direct printing method together with partners. We’re especially proud of having developed a completely new product offering based on new technologies. A key factor in this was the different disciplines working together in the project team.” For the process, the hood of the 911 will be removed and the owner’s biometric will be applied onto the body panel by a robot. A clear coat will be applied afterward and the hood is finally polished to attain a high-gloss finish. The personalization option will be available starting from March and costs the equivalent of about $8100 in Europe.
