Video: Harley-Davidson accelerates electric bike development

Harley-Davidson has revealed a new range of electric motorcycles – plus an electric bicycle.

Its first electric motorcycle, LiveWire, is due for release in 2019.

The company says it’s the first in a broad, no-clutch “twist and go” portfolio of electric two-wheelers designed to establish the company as the leader in the sport’s electrification.

LiveWire will be followed by additional models through to 2022 with lighter, smaller and even more accessible product options to inspire new riders with new ways to ride under its “More Roads to Harley-Davidson” growth plan.

It’s reportedly the company’s most radical shakeup in its 115-year-history.

As well as new products, Harley-Davidson plans broader access for customers with a “multi-channel retail experience” and a stronger dealer network with new retail formats involving smaller, urban storefronts globally.

“We expect this plan will result in an engaged, expanded Harley-Davidson community with a more diverse rider base, along with industry-leading margins and cash flow,” president and chief executive officer Matt Levatich says.

It intends offering a comprehensive line-up of motorcycles, competing in many of the largest and fastest growing segments with a full portfolio of motorcycles across a broad spectrum of price points, power sources, displacements, riding styles and global markets.

These include more technologically advanced Touring and Cruiser motorcycles, a new modular 500cc to 1250cc middleweight platform of motorcycles that spans three distinct product spaces and four displacements, starting with the company’s first Adventure Touring motorcycle, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250, a 1250cc Custom model and a 975cc Streetfighter model, all due to launch in 2020.

Harley-Davidson is also developing a more accessible, small-displacement (250cc to 500cc) motorcycle for Asia through a planned strategic alliance with a manufacturer there, while aiming for growth in India.

The company plans to fund its development through cost reductions and reallocations of previously planned investment and resources, including operating investment through 2022 of US$450 to US$550 million and capital investment through 2022 of US$225 to US$275 million.

“More Roads to Harley-Davidson” is intended to generate more than US$1 billion in 2022.