Compact 3D Printed Go-Kart for Travel

Imagine a go-kart that can be easily packed into a suitcase and transported with you on your travels. Ivan Miranda made this concept a reality by designing and building a compact 3D printed go-kart. The go-kart's compact design allows it to fit in regular plane luggage, making it an ideal travel companion for adventure-seekers who want to explore new places without worrying about transporting their vehicle.

The build process started with some major compromises compared to Ivan's previous go-kart builds. To save weight and allow the design to be more compact, he decided to use only three wheels instead of four and a simplified control layout that eschews a regular steering wheel. The kart uses a set of handles on either side of the rider to handle steering. Drive is via a brushless motor, with power supplied from a series of 18 V drill batteries.

The final build weighed around 20 kg, which is light enough to be broken down across checked luggage and carry-on for a typical flight. However, it's worth noting that some assembly was required upon arriving at the destination.

Ivan's design choices were motivated by his experience with large-scale 3D printed vehicles, which can be impractical to transport due to their size and weight. By simplifying the design and using lighter materials, he was able to create a go-kart that is both compact and portable.

While Ivan's compact go-kart is an impressive feat of engineering, there are still some limitations to consider. The simplified control layout may take some getting used to, and the three-wheeled design may not be as stable as a four-wheeled vehicle. Additionally, the use of drill batteries for power may limit the go-kart's range and speed.

Despite these limitations, Ivan's compact 3D printed go-kart is an innovative solution for travelers who want to explore new places without worrying about transportation. It demonstrates the possibilities of 3D printing in design and engineering, and could potentially inspire future projects that combine portability with performance.

Design Challenges And Limitations

While Ivan's compact go-kart is an impressive feat of engineering, there are still some limitations to consider. The simplified control layout may take some getting used to, and the three-wheeled design may not be as stable as a four-wheeled vehicle. Additionally, the use of drill batteries for power may limit the go-kart's range and speed.

Conclusion

Ivan Miranda's compact 3D printed go-kart is an innovative solution for travelers who want to explore new places without worrying about transportation. It demonstrates the possibilities of 3D printing in design and engineering, and could potentially inspire future projects that combine portability with performance.

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https://hackaday.com/2026/07/24/3d-printed-go-kart-designed-to-fit-in-a-suitcase

SOURCE: https://hackaday.com/2026/07/24/3d-printed-go-kart-designed-to-fit-in-a-suitcase