Harley-Davidson Dives Head First Into Electrification With Two New Concepts

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Harley-Davidson was off to the X-Games in Aspen, Colorado to show off its latest creations that complement its previously announced Livewire electric motorcycle.

Image credit: Harley-Davidson

The new lightweight electric motorcycle and the electric bike bring a new generation of styling to the brand, with minimalist lines that stand in stark contrast to the beefy hogs the brand is known for. The two new prototypes were revealed to the world at the Winter X-Games in Aspen, which shows just how exciting and revolutionary the brand sees its two newest family members.

Harley-Davidson designed these two new concepts at sizes that would not require a motorcycle license, but would simply bring the promise of its signature high-power, high-adrenaline riding experience to a new generation of riders. That move also opens up their vehicles to an entirely new class of riders that previously would not have been able to ride a Harley due to age and licensing limitations.

Image credit: Harley-Davidson

Electric powertrains bring an entirely new level of ease of use, with no need to start the engine, shift gears, or engage a clutch. That ease allows this new class of rider to simply turn the throttle and go for it. As a special bonus, refueling is as simple as plugging in a cellphone to charge.

116 Years Young

The head-first dive into electric vehicles are just the first of an entire family of new electrified two-wheeled offerings from the brand that will feature, “a spectrum of models and price points from a few thousand dollars to Harley-Davidson’s halo electric motorcycle, the LiveWire™ at $29,799,” according to a press release from the company announcing the two new vehicles.

Image credit: Harley-Davidson

The two new lightweight electric motorcycles show that Harley Davidson is not just thinking about electric vehicles for its full sized bikes, but as a revolutionary disruption to what it means to getting around on two wheels. The transition from gasoline to electric motors offers up new design and functionality freedoms that the brand is clearly intent on maximizing, while embracing the full potential of the new technology.

These two new electric prototypes from Harley Davidson are the embodiment of not just what it looks like when a brand embraces newer, superior technologies, but when it sees the new technologies as opportunities to further enhance its brand and add value to the customers. The energy and excitement in these two new prototypes from Harley Davidson stand in stark contrast to the economobiles, compliance cars, and half-hearted attempts at building electric vehicles that we have seen from legacy automakers.

Source: Harley-Davidson


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Kyle Field

I'm a tech geek passionately in search of actionable ways to reduce the negative impact my life has on the planet, save money and reduce stress. Live intentionally, make conscious decisions, love more, act responsibly, play. The more you know, the less you need. As an activist investor, Kyle owns long term holdings in Tesla, Lightning eMotors, Arcimoto, and SolarEdge.

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