Local Motors (and “local”​ businesses)

Local Motors (and think “Local”)

Imagine that you designed your own car and had a company build it for you with 3-D printer in just about eight hours! Yes, it is possible. (See my pictures with some of the concept cars)

We visited Local Motors in National Harbor (Prince George’s County, Maryland) yesterday, toured their amazing facility. We were given a self-driving tour by “Olli” – the “flexible, safe, smart, disciplined, roomy, sustainable and upgradable” vehicle that moves people within a community. Yes, all those accolades apply to Olli. Olli is the “world’s first co-created, self-driving, low-speed, electric shuttle now plying the streets of National Harbor. Imagine, what Olli can do for campuses of companies and Federal agencies, college campuses, and senior living centers! 

Olli took us on a tour of National Harbor, without a driver. It took us behind Gaylord Resort, gave us a glimpse of the “Air Force1” exhibit, slowed down for pedestrians, stopped at stop signs, and safely arrived back at the LM destination. 

Local Motors provides “Olli Meet & Greet” opportunities on Tuesdays from 6:00 – 7:30 PM. Call ahead and make your reservation – better yet, take your children and your schools for a tour and learning experience.

That brings me to another issue: “Local.” The company, Local Motors, builds vehicles with 3-D technology – that are, among other attributes – safe, sustainable and upgradable, and can be built locally. Most businesses are “local.” Supporting and growing “local” businesses should be a high priority for all communities that want to create jobs and expand their commercial tax base.  Yes, fight hard and attract new businesses; grow new ones from within; but, do not overlook the assets you already have – your LOCAL businesses!