Dr. Alexander Reynolds
Milwaukee-based LiveWire Group, Inc., a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson, has unveiled its latest electric motorcycle model, the S2 Mulholland, which incorporates sustainable materials in its design. One notable feature is the use of hemp-based composite in the fenders, marking the first time LiveWire has utilized this eco-friendly material. The hemp fenders were provided by C2 Renew, a material designer and compounder located in Fargo, North Dakota, known for producing biocomposite materials using recycled plastics and locally sourced agricultural byproducts.
In addition to the hemp fenders, the S2 Mulholland incorporates other sustainable elements. The motorcycle’s radiator shrouds and wiring caddies are made from discarded ocean fishing nets, further contributing to the eco-conscious approach. The seat, on the other hand, is crafted from petroleum-free, recyclable silicone instead of traditional leather or vinyl materials.
With a price tag of $15,999, the S2 Mulholland offers a city riding range of 121 miles and a highway range of 73 miles at 55 mph on a full charge. The bike’s 10.5 kWh battery can be charged from 20 to 80% in under six hours using a Level 1 charger, while a Level 2 charger achieves the same charge in just 78 minutes.
Initially, the sales of the S2 Mulholland will be limited to the United States and Canada for 2024, with expansion to other markets planned for 2025. LiveWire, previously a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson, became an independent company after a $1.7 billion merger with a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) and went public in 2022. Although Harley-Davidson still owns roughly 90% of LiveWire, the independent company has been striving to establish its presence in the electric motorcycle market.
While LiveWire faced losses of $109 million in 2023, the financial support from Harley-Davidson remains evident. Last month, the motorcycle giant extended a loan of up to $100 million to LiveWire, demonstrating its commitment to the success of the electric motorcycle venture.
This initiative to incorporate sustainable materials in the S2 Mulholland highlights LiveWire’s dedication to environmental consciousness and innovation in the electric motorcycle industry. By utilizing hemp-based composites, recycled ocean plastics, and other eco-friendly alternatives, LiveWire sets a positive example for the future of sustainable transportation.
The electric motorcycle industry has been rapidly growing in recent years, driven by increasing consumer demand for environmentally friendly transportation options. According to a market report, the global electric motorcycle market is expected to reach a value of $14 billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate of over 10% during the forecast period.
The use of sustainable materials in electric motorcycles, such as hemp-based composites and recycled plastics, is gaining traction in the industry. These materials not only reduce the environmental impact of production but also provide performance benefits such as light weight and durability. The incorporation of hemp-based composite in the fenders of the S2 Mulholland by LiveWire is a significant step forward in this direction.
C2 Renew, the supplier of the hemp fenders, is a leading material designer and compounder specializing in biocomposite materials. Their use of recycled plastics and locally sourced agricultural byproducts demonstrates the potential for creating eco-friendly alternatives in the automotive industry.
In addition to the use of hemp-based composites, LiveWire’s S2 Mulholland incorporates other sustainable features. The use of discarded ocean fishing nets in the motorcycle’s radiator shrouds and wiring caddies not only helps reduce waste but also raises awareness about the issue of marine pollution. Furthermore, the decision to use a petroleum-free, recyclable silicone seat instead of traditional leather or vinyl materials showcases LiveWire’s commitment to finding innovative solutions for sustainable transportation.
The pricing and range of the S2 Mulholland make it a competitive option in the electric motorcycle market. With a price tag of $15,999 and a city riding range of 121 miles, it offers a compelling choice for urban commuters seeking an eco-friendly mode of transportation. A full charge provides a highway range of 73 miles at 55 mph, making it suitable for longer rides as well.
LiveWire’s decision to initially limit sales of the S2 Mulholland to the United States and Canada for 2024 indicates a strategic approach to market expansion. This allows the company to focus on establishing a strong presence in these markets before venturing into other regions in 2025. The recent merger with a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) and subsequent public listing in 2022 has provided LiveWire with the financial support and independence necessary for its growth.
Despite facing losses in recent years, LiveWire’s partnership with Harley-Davidson, which still holds a majority stake in the company, demonstrates the commitment of both companies to the success of the electric motorcycle venture. The extension of a $100 million loan by Harley-Davidson further strengthens their support for LiveWire’s ambitions in the industry.
LiveWire’s dedication to environmental consciousness and innovation in the electric motorcycle industry is evident in their choice of sustainable materials for the S2 Mulholland. By setting an example with the use of hemp-based composites, recycled ocean plastics, and other eco-friendly alternatives, LiveWire is contributing to the future of sustainable transportation.
For more information about LiveWire and their electric motorcycles, you can visit their official website: livewire.com.
