LiveWire is in big financial trouble and Harley-Davidson might not save it

LiveWire might be set to unveil the new DUST Hightail motorcycle at EICMA 2026, however, the electric startup seems to have bigger issues on its hands. 

The Harley-Davidson-backed company released its Third Quarter Financial Results on October 29, and below all the sales and revenue figures mentioned, the brand made reference to growing concerns regarding its ability to survive going forward. 

It appears as though LiveWire has been in trouble for quite some time, with motorcycle sales failing to reach the intended targets. 

The biggest concern for LiveWire is the growing amount of debt that has amassed, which is set to mature further in 2027.

Speaking about its current struggles, LiveWire said this in its report last week: 

“Management has determined that conditions and events raise substantial doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date the Company's September 30, 2026 consolidated financial statements are issued. The Company's recurring operating losses, negative cash flows from operations, limited liquidity resources, and anticipated future funding requirements contributed to this determination. 

“The Company continues to evaluate and pursue comprehensive financing and other strategic alternatives, which may include significant capital raises, strategic partnerships or investments, sales, and other strategic transactions, intended to support the Company's operations and execution of its business plan; however, there can be no assurance that such efforts will be successful or that any such transaction will be available on terms acceptable to the Company, our lienholders or stockholders.”

This statement was provided just one week after CEO Karim Donnez resigned from his position, alongside the appointment of Roy Gallagher of the Ankura Consulting Group as the company’s new chief restructuring officer.

It remains to be seen what a full restructure will look like for LiveWire, and whether this will be enough alongside numerous other changes that are needed.

The company might not be able to rely on Harley-Davidson’s help either. CEO Artie Starrs spoke about LiveWire’s future during Harley-Davidson’s Q3 investor call, saying: 

“We don't intend to fund the operating losses of the team going forward. The team there has been working on other forms of capital. What's been announced has been announced.”

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