Toyota Gearing Up To Build Ventilators And Face Shields As Mercedes Offers Use Of 3d Printers

Today, the automaker announced a series of initiatives to assist those in need with essential supplies and equipment.

First and foremost, the company is working to produce 3D printed face shields. Mass production is slated to begin early next week and the first units will be sent to hospitals in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan and Texas.

Also Read: Ford And FCA Join The Fight Against Coronavirus Making Masks, Ventilators And Face Shields

Ventilators and masks are also in high demand, so Toyota is working on both fronts. The company says they are ready to produce masks, but they’re seeking a partner for filters. Toyota is also finalizing agreements with two companies so they can help them increase production of ventilators and respirators.

The automaker is also offering their engineering and manufacturing know-how to help companies increase production of other medical supplies and equipment. They’re also working with hospitals and communities to help organize drive-through testing sites.

On top of these efforts, Toyota has already donated masks, safety glasses, gloves and other equipment to hospitals and first responders. The company is also donating to food banks which are quickly becoming depleted as over three million Americans have found themselves out of work.

Speaking of food, Sand Mountain Toyota has stepped up to help the community of the Albertville, Alabama by providing free lunches to K-12 students. Three days a week, the dealership grilles hundreds of hotdogs and hamburgers to feed to children who would normally get free lunches from schools which are now closed due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Toyota isn’t alone in helping out as Mercedes has offered to produce medical equipment on their 3D printers. The company’s production and supply chain boss, Jörg Burzer, said "With our highly competent team and years of experience in 3D printing technology, we are ready to make our contribution to the production of medical devices."

The automaker doesn’t have any definitive plans at the moment, but they’re in contact with the state government of Baden-Württemberg and want to hear from the medical technology sector as their 3D printers are "definitely available."

As we have previously reported, GM is gearing up to make surgical masks and ventilators. Likewise, Ford is exploring ventilator production and making full-face shields for medical workers and first responders. FCA is also helping out as they’re planning to make than more than a million face masks monthly.

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