IMSA News: Andretti Performance And Velo3d Partner For 2026 Imsa Michelin Pilot Challenge
Andretti Performance announced today that Velo3D, Inc. (NASDAQ: VELO), a leading provider of advanced metal additive manufacturing technology, will partner with Andretti Performance as an official sponsor and additive manufacturing technology provider for two 2026 IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge events.
The partnership will feature Velo3D branding on the No. 43 Andretti Performance Porsche at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and Indianapolis Motor Speedway, while also showcasing Velo3D’s advanced manufacturing capabilities through the deployment of performance-critical components produced using its metal additive manufacturing technology.
As part of the collaboration, Velo3D designed and manufactured an aluminum CP1 radio controls mounting bracket for the No. 43 Porsche to improve rigidity and performance of critical cockpit communication and control systems. Produced using Constellium’s Aheadd® CP1 aluminum alloy, a high-performance material developed for additive manufacturing and increasingly utilized in aerospace and defense applications for its lightweight, high-strength, and elevated-temperature properties, the component was optimized using generative design tools to maximize structural efficiency while minimizing weight, reflecting the late John Andretti’s philosophy: “smart, but aggressive”.
The collaboration serves as a real-world demonstration of how advanced additive manufacturing is transforming performance engineering through lighter, stronger, and more intelligent component design in one of the world’s most demanding operating environments.
“I’m very excited to bring Velo3D into auto racing with Andretti Performance,” said Jarett Andretti, driver of the No. 43 entry. “I learned about Velo3D a few years ago and have been impressed how they have pushed boundaries on propulsion engines in aerospace and defense. I’m excited to have found an opportunity for us to partner.”
“Andretti embodies the same relentless pursuit of precision, performance, and innovation that defines Velo3D,” said Arun Jeldi, Chief Executive Officer of Velo3D. “This partnership is more than brand alignment. It is a real-world demonstration of how advanced additive manufacturing can solve complex engineering challenges and deliver superior performance in the most demanding environments. We believe opportunities like this expand awareness of Velo3D’s differentiated technology while showcasing