Electric Motorcycle
The impetus for such a move, of course, is the rapidly
changing motorcycle market. The big bikes that have sustained Harley sales for
decades are waning in popularity, and the motorcycle maker has found itself
trying to woo a generation that isn't as interested in big, heavy and expensive
motorcycles -- but could be in the market for affordable, easy-to-use and compact
zero-emissions urban motorcycles if presented with such an option.
"Earlier this year, as part of our 10-year strategy, we
reiterated our commitment to build the next generation of Harley-Davidson
riders in part by aggressively investing in electric vehicle (EV)
technology," said Harley-Davidson President and CEO Matt Levatich.
"Alta has demonstrated innovation and expertise in EV, and their objectives
align closely with ours. We each have strengths and capabilities that will be
mutually beneficial as we work together to develop cutting-edge electric
motorcycles."
Alta's current expertise isn't in road bikes -- the EV
startup has been focusing on off-road motorcycles -- but it's the battery and
electric motor technology that's crucial for Harley-Davidson. After all, it's
really the motorcycle's propulsion method that is at stake; on everything else,
Harley-Davidson already has plenty of expertise.
"Riders are just beginning to understand the combined
benefits of EV today, and our technology continues to progress," said Alta
Motors chief product officer and co-founder, Marc Fenigstein. "We believe
electric motorcycles are the future, and that American companies have an
opportunity to lead that future. It's incredibly exciting that Harley-Davidson,
synonymous with motorcycle leadership, shares that vision and we're thrilled to
collaborate with them."
Harley-Davidson is focusing on something else besides
electric powertrain as a part of transforming its model range: ease of use.
Most of its lineup for the past couple of decades has been heavier and aimed at
leisure riding, rather than everyday mobility (as tends to be the case in
markets like Europe). Harley-Davison now views "twist-and-go"
operation, one free from operating the clutch and gears, as the future of
motorcycles in general, as part of revamping a motorcycle's basic appeal to
customers.
SOURCE: Auto Week
Source: Biker Switchboard Media
