McLean, US: AMT is establishing an Emerging Technology Center (ETC) at IMTS to showcase emerging technologies to visitors.

"At IMTS 2004 we created the Emerging Technology Center to present manufacturing 'technologies of the future' from universities and government research labs," notes Peter Eelman, VP – Exhibitions and Communications, AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology. 

"This feature returned IMTS to its roots as a forum where the latest technologies are first seen. This year is no exception, and we are confident that this will be the most exciting ETC effort yet."

One important exhibit in the ETC is sure to be the complete construction of a 3D-printed electric car by IMTS partner Local Motors. The company will build and deliver the first direct digital manufactured vehicle at IMTS 2014.

Making certain that US manufacturers can compete globally remains a hot topic. Also part of the ETC will be the Institutes for Manufacturing Innovation that make up the National Network for Manufacturing Innovation. They will show how regional hubs leverage public-private partnerships to strengthen the position of US manufacturers.