Škoda lets owners make their own car accessories
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Škoda has taken an unusual step in car accessory sales: rather than buying every small plastic part from a dealership, owners can now make the accessories they need with a 3D printer. The manufacturer has released a free library of digital models suitable for both new cars and models no longer in production.
According to a Škoda press release, the project is called Printly Clever and builds on the brand’s familiar Simply Clever philosophy. The manufacturer offers free 3D models on Printables.com that car owners can download, adapt to their needs and produce using a suitable printer. Škoda says it is the first car manufacturer to offer an official accessory library of this kind on a dedicated 3D-printing platform.
Cup holders, storage compartments and phone mounts
The initial range includes cup holders, cable holders, coin holders, phone mounts and hooks that attach to seat pockets. Many of the parts use the car’s existing storage spaces and require no interior modifications.
The electric Epiq and Peaq have received particular attention. For these models, Škoda offers centre console organisers, storage compartment dividers and cup holder inserts. A separate cup holder can even be attached to the Peaq’s folding table.
Importantly, the manufacturer is not limiting the range to new models. It also includes accessories for older Škodas, for which original accessories may be harder to obtain.
The spare-parts warehouse goes digital
Printly Clever’s biggest advantage lies in the simplicity of the production process. Škoda does not have to make an injection mould for every small plastic part, hold stock or arrange transport. Users can make the part they need even in a home workshop.
That does not mean the accessories are entirely free, however. 3D printing requires a suitable machine, material and electricity. Heat resistance also needs to be considered for parts used inside a car, as cabin temperatures can exceed 60 °C in the sun. Standard PLA plastic can deform in these conditions.
For European car owners, the initiative offers a practical way to customise their vehicles without searching for aftermarket accessories. It also gives Škoda an opportunity to test new solutions based on customer feedback without immediately investing in mass production.
