Harley-Davidson halts LiveWire production due to a problem with the charging technology
Harley-Davidson has temporarily suspended production of the LiveWire. Problems have arisen with other charging stations that were not detected during quality control at the factory.
The problem with the charging technology must first be resolved before production can resume. According to an official statement made to US broadcaster CNBC, it is not yet clear when this will be.
Harley-Davidson recommends charging the LiveWire only at H-D dealers for the time being.
Harley-Davidson has announced that this problem also exists in LiveWire models that have already been delivered. Customers are advised to charge their bikes only at the charging stations available directly at Harley-Davidson dealers for the time being.
Slow sales are not the reason.
There is said to be no connection between the slow start to sales of the LiveWire and halt production. Harley-Davidson does not expect a rush on the first Electric motorcycle from the traditional manufacturer. Interest is high, but the price is putting customers off a little. In Germany, the LiveWire starts at €32,995 (as of October 15, 2019).
The LiveWire is just the beginning of the Harley-Davidson e-bike project.
For Harley-Davidson, the move into electric mobility is a major, long-term project. It will require the creation of completely new structures and investments that will extend all the way to Harley-Davidson dealers.
H-D dealers must implement all requirements that enable them to maintain a compliant workshop for e-bikes. Workshop employees receive intensive training on a completely different subject. The company has extensive requirements for Harley-Davidson dealers, which must be met in order to be able to sell and service the LiveWire.
Insurance for the LiveWire
Harley-Davidson Insurance Services has launched its new insurance product. Electrical Plus module launched to promote LiveWire with comprehensive coverage. This even covers towing to the nearest charging station if your battery is empty!
The path to e-mobility is an investment in a market that will develop for two-wheelers in the long term. In contrast to the market for heavy vehicles such as cars and trucks, the market will tend to move toward hydrogen propulsion in the long term, as Hyundai is currently demonstrating in a major project in Switzerland. (external web link: hydrogen trucks) .
Harley-Davidson is a pioneer
Harley-Davidson's core customer base generally finds it difficult to get used to new models, and anything new tends to be demonized in the scene and on social media at first. But that was already the case with the EVOs, the first Twin Cam engines, and the V-Rod. This will only settle down over time. It will certainly take a little longer with e-bikes, but Harley-Davidson is generally a pioneer in this area.
