Harley Davidson LiveWire Electric Motorcycle Updates

Wednesday, 24 July 2024 10:11 PM Harley-Davidsons electric motorcycle brand, LiveWire, has received an $89 million grant from the Inflation Reduction Act to boost its production of zero-emissions motorcycles. This funding will be used to expand and upgrade their 650,000-square foot facility in York County, focusing on more energy-efficient EV manufacturing and waste-reducing paint technologies. The grant is expected to help retain and retrain over 1,300 union workers and hire an additional 125. I believe this investment is crucial for LiveWire to stay competitive in the evolving electric vehicle market.

Friday, 26 April 2024 03:46 PM LiveWire reported significant operating losses, including $29 million in Q1 of 2024, following $125 million in losses in 2023 and $85 million in 2022. Despite launching new models like the S2 Del Mar and S2 Mulholland, sales have been sluggish, with only 117 bikes sold year-to-date in 2024. I think LiveWire needs to address pricing and range issues to appeal to a broader market and turn its financials around.

Friday, 26 April 2024 03:09 PM Harley-Davidsons decision to spin off LiveWire as a separate company was aimed at appealing to a younger demographic and reducing the perceived baggage of the Harley-Davidson brand. However, the new models still bear a strong resemblance to traditional Harley-Davidson designs, which may not be the best strategy to attract younger buyers. I believe LiveWire should consider more futuristic designs to differentiate itself and appeal to a new generation of riders.

Tuesday, 06 June 2023 11:19 AM LiveWire has announced the appointment of Karim Donnez as its new CEO, replacing Jochen Zeitz who will remain as the chair. Donnez comes from Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP) and brings a strong background in driving transformational growth. This change comes as LiveWire prepares for the summer deliveries of its highly-anticipated S2 Del Mar electric motorcycle. I think this leadership change could bring fresh strategies to help LiveWire overcome its current market challenges.

Tuesday, 06 June 2023 11:49 AM The LiveWire S2 Del Mar, the second model in LiveWires lineup, is set to be released with a final price of $15,499, significantly lower than the LiveWire One. This bike targets a power rating of around 80 horsepower and a city range of approximately 100 miles. It features a 0-60 mph time of around 3.1 seconds and level 2 recharging that tops up the battery from 20-80% in 75 minutes. I believe the competitive pricing and performance specs could attract more urban riders to the brand.