Introduction

Harley-Davidson had released its primary production electric motorcycle, the LiveWire, in September.

Yes, the American representative for inner combustion, chrome and steel in all-in on two-wheeled EVs.

Established in Milwaukee in 1903, Harley-Davidson opened a Silicon Valley office in 2018 with ideas to add a future line-up of electric vehicles, from motorcycles to bicycles to scooters.

With those movements, HD joins a list of authorized transportation companies that are redefining themselves in the change of global mobility.

Although, Harley-Davidson has stopped production and delivery of its electric motorcycle, the LiveWire, after seeing a non-standard condition.

Harley-Davidson had mentioned it does not recall LiveWire motorcycles that are already on the road. 

The Reason For This Decision 

Reuters was the first to announce that Harley-Davidson had halted production and deliveries.

HD said in a statement that they recently found a non-standard condition during a final quality check.

That’s why they stopped production and deliveries, and began further testing and analysis, which is advancing well.

They are in friendly contact with their LiveWire dealers and consumers and have promised them they can proceed to ride LiveWire motorcycles. 

As usual, they are keeping high quality as their top priority.

Harley-Davidson has not stated when production and sale can resume, nor did it give more information on the non-standard condition.

The production stoppage approaches to thwart Harley-Davidson’s bet on electrification. 

The $29,799, 105 horsepower electric motorcycle was the first of a future line-up of EVs from Harley-Davidson traversing motorcycles, bicycles and scooters.

More About The Livewire

The LiveWire moved into production in 2019 after years of signs and even an idea of electric motorcycle roadshow. 

Distribution to dealers started on September 27.

The LiveWire and following EV products are meant to complement, not substitute, Harley-Davidson’s premium internal-combustion cruiser motorcycles.

New motorcycle sales in the U.S., especially to consumers aged under 40, have been in the doldrums since the recession. 

Harley-Davidson’s incomes have fallen over the last decade. 

Harley-Davidson’s change to electric motorcycles is an effort to hold down its loyal gas-motorcycle following while building products to appeal to millennials and the on-demand mobility market.

This places the iconic American company in a space to hedge competition from a product of e-moto startups such as Zer.

Then hop out front as the EV leader amongst established motorcycle companies.

SEE ALSO: Boston Dynamics places its robotic quadruped Spot out for sale

Conclusion

Harley-Davidson’s decision to halt the production and delivery of the LiveWire electric motorcycle highlights the company’s commitment to quality and safety. Despite the setback, Harley-Davidson continues to explore the future of electric vehicles, aiming to appeal to both its loyal customer base and younger generations. The LiveWire represents a significant step in the brand’s shift towards electrification, with hopes of entering a competitive market that includes e-motorcycle startups and other established companies. While the temporary production stoppage is a challenge, Harley-Davidson is taking necessary steps to resolve the issue, and its EV future remains promising. For more updates and the latest tech news, keep reading iTMunch. 

FAQs

1. Why did Harley-Davidson stop production and delivery of the LiveWire?
   Harley-Davidson halted production and deliveries after discovering a non-standard condition during the final quality check. They are conducting further testing and analysis before resuming production.
2. Is there a recall for LiveWire motorcycles already on the road?
   No, Harley-Davidson has not recalled any LiveWire motorcycles already on the road. Riders can continue using their motorcycles.
3. When will the production of the LiveWire resume?
   Harley-Davidson has not provided a specific date for when production and sales of the LiveWire will resume. They are still working through the testing and analysis process.
4. What is the LiveWire’s price and horsepower?
   The LiveWire is priced at $29,799 and features 105 horsepower.
5. How does the LiveWire fit into Harley-Davidson’s future plans?
   The LiveWire is part of Harley-Davidson’s broader shift toward electrification, which includes not only motorcycles but also bicycles and scooters. The LiveWire and future EV products aim to complement Harley-Davidson’s traditional internal-combustion motorcycles.
6. Why is Harley-Davidson shifting towards electric vehicles?
   The move toward electric vehicles is aimed at attracting a younger audience, especially millennials, and staying competitive in the growing electric mobility market. Harley-Davidson also hopes to maintain its loyal customer base while diversifying its product line.
7. What impact has the recession had on Harley-Davidson’s sales?
   Since the recession, sales of new motorcycles in the U.S. have been sluggish, especially among consumers under 40. This has contributed to a decline in Harley-Davidson’s income over the past decade.