Additive manufacturing with metals – Faster innovation for the bicycle industry
Möve recognized the challenges of the bicycle industry, particularly the high tooling costs for standardized bicycle frames. Together with Eplus3D, the company developed the world's first monocoque titanium bicycle frame with an integrated battery.
Integrating innovative technologies from Asia into Central Europe while maintaining cost efficiency was a major challenge.
Möve turned to additive manufacturing (AM) early on to produce the connecting elements between the frame segments more efficiently. After a thorough evaluation of potential partners, it became clear that close collaboration with experts was necessary to combine design, performance, and cost-effectiveness in a single solution.
The Eplus3D team optimized the cost structure for producing these fasteners and ensured the concept was scalable to series production. This approach, combined with the use of innovative titanium tubes, accelerated the project by at least four months. The result: a new, distinctive e-bike frame that retained the planned monocoque design.
This project impressively demonstrates the potential of metal 3D printing for the bicycle industry. The close collaboration and expertise of all involved enabled a redesign of the parts manufacturing process, improving the quality and durability of the final product—and thus also the user experience.
