Toyota to build masks, face shields and Mercedes offers use of 3D printers to fight COVID-19

In a bid to fight back against the spread of COVID-19, Toyota has announced a series of initiatives to assist those in need with essential supplies and equipment.

The US has over 170,000 cases of CONVID-19 and the Japanese carmaker is stepping up to produce face masks and ventilators to help those on the front lines in North America.

And like many other major carmakers producing much-needed personal protective gear for health care workers, Toyota said it will begin mass production of 3D-printed face shields.

Toyota has said it is ready to start mask production, but it needs a partner to supply filters that keep virus particles at bay.

Toyota says the first units will be sent to hospitals in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan and Texas - and it is not the only carmaker stepping up to help however it can as Mercedes-Benz has also got involved...

The German carmaker has offered to produce medical equipment on their 3D printers and its 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.”

Mercedes-Benz does not have any definitive plans at the moment, but it is in contact with the state government of Baden-Württemberg and wants to hear from the medical technology sector because their 3D printers are “definitely available.”

It is heartening to see major carmakers such as Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Ford, General Motors and others doing whatever they can to help fight the spread of COVID-19. Currently, there are over 857,000 cases worldwide and over 42,000 deaths...