Photo: Harley-Davidson
Even though some claim that the current Harley-Davidson vice president Jim Federico had something to do with the all-new electric project Livewire recently surfaced by the MoCo,it looks like these are only rumors. 56-years-old Mr. Federico stepped up as a VP for engineering for Harley on June 2, so there was no way he could have triggered Milwaukee’s venture into the electric motorcycle realm.
As a General Motors executive, Jim Federico had a lot to do with several of the electric cars developed by the automotive giant. A chief engineer for small cars ad EVs, Federico was, massively involved in the development of cars such as the Chevrolet Volt and the Chevrolet Spark EV. Now, it’s true that given his expertise in the electric vehicle field recommends him as one of the top corporate choices for a company like Harley-Davidson, which is taking its first steps in an area considered taboo until not long ago.
Having spent 36 years with GM and occupying various engineering and executive posts, Jim Federico will take care of Harley-Davidson’s engineering and R&D as far as the electric project (and possibly more) is concerned. Even though no production version of the Livewire was officially confirmed, Harley says that the new electric bike will be sent to 30 select dealerships in the US where customers will be able to test ride them.
Even more, the Livewire is said to be sent to Canada and Europe next year. So far, the Livewire has not got too much to brag about, save for the bar and shield badge. Its performance specs are rather modest with a 30-mile range (48 km) in power mode and it doubles with a more balanced power setting. However, early tests returned a lively road stance and quick-responsive throttle, with the range being the only solid drawback. There’s no word on the potential price of the Livewire.
With Federico’s expertise in EVs, Harley-Davidson may have a decent help in kicking off the electric bike range, but it looks like we still have to wait until at least next year to get a bigger picture.
Having spent 36 years with GM and occupying various engineering and executive posts, Jim Federico will take care of Harley-Davidson’s engineering and R&D as far as the electric project (and possibly more) is concerned. Even though no production version of the Livewire was officially confirmed, Harley says that the new electric bike will be sent to 30 select dealerships in the US where customers will be able to test ride them.
Even more, the Livewire is said to be sent to Canada and Europe next year. So far, the Livewire has not got too much to brag about, save for the bar and shield badge. Its performance specs are rather modest with a 30-mile range (48 km) in power mode and it doubles with a more balanced power setting. However, early tests returned a lively road stance and quick-responsive throttle, with the range being the only solid drawback. There’s no word on the potential price of the Livewire.
With Federico’s expertise in EVs, Harley-Davidson may have a decent help in kicking off the electric bike range, but it looks like we still have to wait until at least next year to get a bigger picture.
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