Harley-Davidson Teams with IBM on LiveWire’s Progressive Technology
Iconic motorcycle brand looks to cloud, AI and IoT technologies to engage new generations of riders.
Harley-Davidson and IBM have unveiled how cloud, IoT and AI technologies will reimagine the everyday experience of motorcycle riding. The new experiences will arrive courtesy of the MoCo’s first electric motorcycle, LiveWire, and aims to transform the motorcycle industry over the coming decade.
Earlier this year, Harley-Davidson revealed the LiveWire, which is part of its “More Roads to Harley-Davidson” accelerated plan for growth. The plan includes initiatives to deliver new products in additional motorcycle segments, broaden engagement with the brand, and strengthen the H-D dealer network. It also boldly proclaims that Harley-Davidson will lead the electrification of motorcycling.
Now, H-D has joined IBM to unveil how LiveWire’s H-D Connect service (available in select markets), built on the IBM Cloud, will deliver new mobility and concierge services today and how the company is expanding the use of IBM artificial intelligence, analytics and IoT to enhance and evolve the rider’s experience of the vehicle. In order to capture the next generation of motorcycle riders, H-D is working with IBM to transform the everyday experience of riding through the latest technologies and features.
The LiveWire motorcycle is equipped with H-D Connect service, a technology that provides cellular connectivity and links a LiveWire owner with their motorcycle through their smartphone using the latest version of the Harley-Davidson App. Built on IBM Cloud, this platform is the foundation on which Harley-Davidson will provide its riders with new services and insights via its first-ever production electric vehicle.
“LiveWire is a fully cellular-connected electric motorcycle, and we needed a partner that could deliver mobility solutions that would meet riders’ changing expectations, as well as enhance security,” said Marc McAllister, Harley-Davidson VP Product Planning and Portfolio. “With IBM we have struck the balance between using data to create both intelligent and personal experiences, while maintaining privacy and security.”
H-D Connect is a technology that provides cellular connectivity and links a LiveWire owner to their motorcycle through their smartphone using the latest version of the Harley-Davidson App. Built on IBM Cloud, this platform is the foundation on which Harley-Davidson will provide its riders with new services and insights via its first-ever production electric vehicle.
For now, IBM Cloud is enabling infrastructure and connected services to fundamentally change the way Harley-Davidson connects riders to their motorcycles and gain insights to power new user experiences such as:
Powering the Ride
LiveWire rider’s will be able to check bike vitals at any time and from any location. Information available includes features such as range, battery health, and charge level. Motorcycle status features will also support the needs of the electric bike such as the location of charging stations. Also riders can see their motorcycle’s current map location.
Powering Security
An alert will be sent to the owner’s phone if the motorcycle has been bumped, tampered or moved. GPS-enabled stolen-vehicle assistance provides peace of mind that the motorcycle’s location can be tracked. (Requires law enforcement assistance. Available in select markets).
Powering Convenience
Reminders about upcoming motorcycle service requirements and other care notifications will be provided to the rider. In addition, riders will receive automated service reminders as well as safety or recall notifications.