Harley-Davidson reveal their first ever electric motorcycle

While very much a concept at this stage, Harley-Davidson have suggested that Project Livewire could become a production possibility, based on feedback and insight from customers throughout the USA on expectations from the project. These will be used to shape the future of Harley-Davidson's first-ever electric motorcycle.

"America at its best has always been about reinvention," said Matt Levatich, President and Chief Operating Officer, Harley-Davidson Motor Company. "And, like America, Harley-Davidson has reinvented itself many times in our history, with customers leading us every step of the way. Project LiveWire is another exciting, customer-led moment in our history."

The Project LiveWire Experience will invite select customers to learn more about the initiative and test ride the electric motorcycle. A cross section of riders will lead feedback, alongside non-riders who will have the opportunity to trial the new technology through the H-D JumpStart™ rider simulators, as seen at various Harley events here in Australia.

A 2014 U.S. Project LiveWire Experience tour - kicking off this month with a journey along Route 66 - will see the initiative visit more than 30 Authorised Harley-Davidson Dealerships. In 2015, the Project LiveWire Experience will continue in the U.S. and expand into other regions, possibly including Australia in the latter part of the year.

"This builds on many recent reinvention successes for Harley-Davidson." said Levatich. "In just the last few years, we've broadened our reach to serve an increasingly diverse society, as well as reinvented our approach to product development and manufacturing.

"This has resulted in cutting-edge products like the recently launched Project RUSHMORE Touring bikes, Harley-Davidson Street 500 and 750 models and this reveal of Project LiveWire."

Mark-Hans Richer, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Harley-Davidson Motor Company commented, "Project LiveWire is more like the first electric guitar - not an electric car. It's an expression of individuality and iconic style that just happens to be electric. Project LiveWire is a bold statement for us as a company and a brand."

Blending Harley-Davidson's styling pedigree with the latest technology, the exciting new motorcycle will offer a dynamic riding experience with instantaneous acceleration and an unmistakable new sound.

"The sound is a distinct part of the thrill," said Richer. "Think fighter jet on an aircraft carrier. Project LiveWire's unique sound was designed to differentiate it from internal combustion and other electric motorcycles on the market."

Long term plans for retail availability of Project LiveWire will be influenced by feedback from consumers involved in the Project LiveWire Experience, which means the final form of the Harley-Davidson electric motorcycle is at least a couple of years away.