The US manufacturer Harley-Davidson launched its first electric vehicle in 2019 with the LiveWire motorcycle. Several other e-vehicles, including e-scooters and e-bikes, should follow. Recently, the company seemed to be neglecting its electrification, the former German Puma manager Jochen Zeitz, who has been at the helm since last year, wants now to sell electric vehicles again.
The LiveWire electric motorcycle was introduced in Europe for 32,000 euros. The 78 kW (105 PS) electric bike goes from 0 to 100 km / h in around 3 seconds. The company specifies the range in the city as 225 kilometres per battery charge. The LiveWire can be charged in up to 60 minutes at public fast-charging stations. Sales figures have not yet been published, but according to dealers in the USA, demand was initially moderated.
Harley-Davidson has now announced that it will launch its independent division under the LiveWire brand. By introducing LiveWire as a fully electric brand, Harley-Davidson is embracing the chance to lead and define the market for electric vehicles. Another LiveWire electric motorcycle is due to celebrate its premiere on July 8th.
LiveWire is much more than an electric motorcycle. The idea with LiveWire is to redefine electric bikes and deliver the best urban driver experience. LiveWire creates an individual relationship between driver and motorcycle. The next episode of the LiveWire era begins immediately. The goal is to be the world's most unique brand for electric motorcycles.
In recent years, Harley-Davidson has fought with a dusty image and older, traditional customers. Now, the company wants to appeal to younger groups of buyers with electric motorcycles and more modern vehicles. Lately, business went much better again; sales increased 10% to $ 1.4 billion.