Although it is called an “Automotive Conversion Grant” Harley-Davidson has gotten Federal funding for its LiveWire operations. The Motor Company was granted $89 Million with the money specifically earmarked for “Electric Vehicle (“EV”) EV Conversion in York, Pennsylvania,” according to the mid-July announcement.
“As part of President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda, DOE has announced $1.7 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act to support the conversion of 11 shuttered or at-risk auto manufacturing and assembly facilities across eight states—Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland and Virginia—to manufacture electric vehicles and their supply chain,” is the official word from The Department Of Energy.
“The Domestic Manufacturing Auto Conversion Grants program helps ensure that the U.S. continues to lead the world in auto manufacturing, led by the communities and workers who know this business best. The awards enable them to manufacture vehicles and products covering a broad range of the automotive supply chain, including parts for electric motorcycles and school buses, hybrid powertrains, heavy-duty commercial truck batteries and electric vehicles. This program also supports the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts to strengthen domestic supply chains, support American workers and bolster America’s global leadership in manufacturing.”
Caveat emptor, though. The fine print states: “The selection for award negotiations is not a commitment by DOE to issue an award or provide funding. Before funding is issued, DOE and the applicants will undergo a negotiation process, and DOE may cancel negotiations and rescind the selection for any reason during that time.”
However an $89 million windfall should keep LiveWire charging along…
Stay tuned!
