How Super Powers Mobility Turned a Prototype into a Scalable EV Vision
Introduction
Jonathan Powers is the founder of Super Powers Mobility (SPM), a startup on a mission to revolutionize off-road vehicles through electric conversion. Based in Pittsburgh, SPM is developing the SPM EV-Kit — a first-of-its-kind electric swap kit for UTVs (utility terrain vehicles). Jonathan, a lifelong enthusiast of off-road vehicles, created the company after realizing there were no commercially available EV kits for UTVs and that existing DIY solutions lacked scalability and reliability.
Before launching SPM, Jonathan co-founded multiple startups, including AdventureHound and a financial technology platform. These experiences helped shape his understanding of equity structure, fundraising instruments, and product development. With Super Powers Mobility, he saw the opportunity not only to innovate within the EV space but to create a long-term roadmap that could eventually lead to the development of high-performance electric UTVs built from the ground up.
Challenge and Goals
When Jonathan joined the Innovation Forge Startup Accelerator program, Super Powers Mobility was in the early prototyping phase with a big vision: start with an EV-swap kit, then build toward licensing a proprietary electric powertrain to OEMs, and eventually launch a ground-up electric vehicle. However, the path wasn’t clear. The company needed a more robust IP strategy, supplier roadmap, and a phased plan for scaling and supporting that big vision. Jonathan also benefited from guidance on licensing models and creating a business framework that would support long-term growth.
While Jonathan had strong technical skills and product ideas, refining his market approach and strategic business planning became top priorities during the Innovation Forge program. He also recognized the need to define and communicate the value of his product in both B2C and B2B markets, especially as interest from government and fleet contractors began to grow.
Outcomes and Results
Through the accelerator program, Jonathan developed a solid IP strategy and gained new insight into licensing and partnership development. Discussions with mentors helped him refine his B2B strategy, including a more scalable approach to offering the EV-kit and its components. The startup also secured $7,500 in prototype funding through the program, significantly offsetting costs for their proof-of-concept vehicle design.
Since completing the program, SPM has made major strides. The company is now 90% complete with its proof-of-concept vehicle and recently secured a verbal commitment from a military contractor to become a development partner and first customer. The team also uncovered new applications for its technology, realizing that individual powertrain components could be sold separately in addition to full kits.
Impact and Next Steps
Jonathan plans to launch a preorder campaign for the EV-kit and scale production based on demand. Simultaneously, Super Powers Mobility will begin designing its ground-up powertrain system with the goal of licensing it or integrating it into its own branded vehicle.
The Innovation Forge Startup Accelerator program didn’t just provide funding — it sparked a strategic shift that helped Jonathan see the broader business potential of his product. As SPM continues to grow, the support of the Digital Foundry and The Corner remains a key part of its journey, “We are extremely fortunate to have a resource like the Digital Foundry in our home town. Pittsburgh is becoming a startup hot spot, and it’s really cool to see smaller towns like New Kensington still be able to facilitate entrepreneurs, providing us with mentoring and technical assistance.” Jonathan credits the program with helping him clarify his path and prepare for meaningful partnerships in both the commercial and government sectors.
