Interactive graphic shows features of the new LiveWire electric vehicle.
GN39368EN

MOTORING

Beleaguered motorcyle giant looks to electric future

July 23, 2019 - Harley-Davidson, the beleaguered U.S. motorcycle giant, is hoping to attract younger riders with its new, all-electric LiveWire motorcycle.

Harley-Davidson has launched a $30,000 all-electric motorcycle in an effort to save its ailing fortunes – the victim of declining sales due to an ageing fan base, 12 months of 31% EU tariffs (issued in retaliation for duties President Trump placed on imported EU steel and aluminium) and competition from the likes of Triumph, Moto Guzzi, Ducati and BMW.

The LiveWire, in development for almost a decade, emits minimal sound, no heat and has no real vibration. It has a top speed of 177km/h and can travel 235km in the city or 152km on the highway from a single charge.

Its bank of lithium-ion batteries can be recharged overnight from a conventional wall socket or be speedily charged in one hour from public Fast Charge stations, of which there are 20,000 spread across the United States.

The LiveWire goes on sale from 250 select global dealerships for $29,799, from late September.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 25/07/2019; STORY: Graphic News
Advertisement