KUHMUTE Revolutionizes Micromobility with SLS 3D‑Printed Charging Adapters

KUHMUTE uses SLS 3D printing to manufacture adapters that power micromobility charging stations.

Transportation is an integral part of daily life—whether we ride public transit, drive, bike, or walk, we constantly weigh cost, speed, convenience, and environmental impact. As cities evolve, they demand modern, efficient, and sustainable mobility solutions.

Founded in Flint, Michigan, by Co‑Founder & CEO Peter Deppe and Co‑Founder & CTO Scott Spitler, KUHMUTE addresses this need by offering a hybrid solution that combines an EV car charger with a gated parking system. Their proprietary adapters allow e‑bikes, e‑scooters, e‑skateboards, and autonomous delivery robots to recharge seamlessly between trips.

What makes these adapters stand out is the Fuse 1 selective laser sintering (SLS) printer—KUHMUTE’s key tool for rapid, high‑quality production. Below we explore:

• KUHMUTE’s vision for transforming mobility.
• How the company 3D‑prints end‑use charging parts on the Fuse 1.
• Future directions for KUHMUTE.

How to Identify the Right Applications for SLS Printing

In this webinar, CEO Peter Deppe shares insights on leveraging SLS to create charging stations for a range of micromobility vehicles.

Watch the Webinar Now

KUHMUTE’s Plan to Transform Mobility

Originating from a university thesis, KUHMUTE focuses on micro‑mobility—lightweight vehicles like bikes, e‑scooters, and mopeds that are reshaping urban infrastructure. While still nascent, micro‑mobility offers faster, more efficient transit options that reduce congestion and emissions.

Deppe chose Flint as the company’s home to create local manufacturing jobs and nurture the region’s tech ecosystem. “We design and manufacture a significant portion of our products in Flint,” he says, underscoring the firm’s commitment to local industry and sustainable growth.

How KUHMUTE 3D‑Prints Their Chargers

Examples of printed components: e‑bike vehicle adapter basket bracket prototype, e‑scooter side wings, e‑bike adapter bracket, and home hub rear mounting bracket—all fabricated on the Fuse 1.

To maintain local employment while adopting sustainable manufacturing, KUHMUTE transitioned from fused deposition modeling (FDM) to SLS. Initially, FDM printers were used for prototyping; today, the Fuse 1 handles production, delivering aesthetically superior, durable Nylon 12 parts with no visible layer lines.

The team currently operates one Fuse 1, with plans to expand as demand grows. Key benefits of the SLS route include:

• High‑quality finish that meets customer expectations.
• Exceptional durability—Nylon 12 withstands temperature extremes and mechanical stress.
• Rapid turnaround: from a new vehicle sample to production adapters in 4‑6 weeks.
• Custom branding—logos can be integrated during printing, eliminating post‑processing.

Efficiency is achieved through a streamlined workflow: CAD models are designed in Fusion 360, a quick FDM prototype verifies fit, and the final part is printed on the Fuse 1. After printing, the Fuse Sift powder recovery system cleans and recycles the Nylon 12 powder, reducing waste and simplifying maintenance.

Durability testing reveals a significant improvement: FDM‑printed adapters failed at 4–500 lb pull force and shattered, whereas SLS‑printed adapters exhibit robust, long‑lasting attachment to the charging hub.

Post‑processing is minimal—material removal and optional black dyeing provide a finished look, eliminating the need for polishing and allowing rapid production on demand.

Beyond quality, SLS enables higher part density, meaning multiple adapters can be printed in a single build. This scalability, coupled with powder reuse, aligns with KUHMUTE’s sustainability goals.

What’s Next for KUHMUTE

E‑scooters are increasingly popular, and KUHMUTE seeks to amplify their positive environmental impact by encouraging a shift away from single‑occupancy vehicles. “We want to see more people choosing e‑bikes, cargo bikes, or autonomous delivery robots instead of cars,” Deppe says.

Locally, KUHMUTE is experimenting with new business models and products, including a 3D‑printed charging solution for Airbnb hosts offering scooters and bikes. These initiatives demonstrate the company’s commitment to driving sustainable, tech‑enabled mobility.