LiveWire Group Inc Reports Q3 2024 Revenue of $4.4 Million, Missing Analyst Estimates; Net Loss Widens to $22.7 Million

Challenges in Electric Motorcycle Sales Amid Industry Headwinds

Author's Avatar
Oct 24, 2024
Summary
  • Revenue: $4.4 million for Q3 2024, significantly below the analyst estimate of $11.40 million, reflecting a 45% decrease from the same period in 2023.
  • Net Loss: Increased to $22.7 million in Q3 2024, compared to a net loss of $14.6 million in Q3 2023, driven by decreased revenue and changes in non-operating income.
  • Electric Motorcycle Sales: 99 units sold, marking a 98% increase over Q3 2023, contributing to a triple-digit increase in year-to-date unit sales.
  • Operating Loss: Widened to $26.5 million in Q3 2024 from $25.3 million in Q3 2023, despite a reduction in selling, administrative, and engineering expenses by $1.4 million.
  • STACYC Segment: Revenue fell by 52% to $3.2 million, with operating income down significantly due to reduced distributor volumes and increased product development costs.
  • Cash Position: Cash and cash equivalents decreased to $88.4 million as of September 30, 2024, from $167.9 million at the end of 2023, reflecting ongoing operational and investment activities.
Article's Main Image

On October 24, 2024, LiveWire Group Inc (LVWR, Financial) released its 8-K filing detailing its third-quarter financial results. LiveWire Group Inc, an all-electric vehicle company, focuses on selling electric motorcycles, parts, accessories, and apparel in the United States and select international markets. The company operates through two segments: Electric Motorcycles and STACYC.

Performance Overview and Challenges

LiveWire Group Inc reported a consolidated revenue of $4.4 million for the third quarter of 2024, a significant 45% decrease from the $8.1 million reported in the same period last year. This figure falls short of the analyst estimate of $11.40 million for the quarter. The decline in revenue was primarily driven by a 52% drop in STACYC sales, despite a 98% increase in electric motorcycle unit sales compared to the third quarter of 2023.

1849409475333746688.png

The company faces challenges in the two-wheel industry, particularly in the U.S. market for electric vehicles. Despite these challenges, LiveWire continues to lead in retailing on-road electric motorcycles in the U.S. and plans to expand its market with a new product segment announcement at EICMA in November.

Financial Achievements and Industry Importance

LiveWire's achievement of being awarded the best 2024 electric bike by Motor Cycle News highlights its competitive edge in the electric motorcycle industry. This recognition is crucial as it reinforces the brand's reputation and could potentially drive future sales in a challenging market.

Key Financial Metrics

The company's consolidated operating loss increased to $26.5 million from $25.3 million in the previous year, primarily due to decreased revenue from electric balance bikes. The net loss widened to $22.7 million from $14.6 million, influenced by a $1.5 million decrease in interest income and a $5.5 million reduction in non-operating income related to the fair value of outstanding warrants.

Metric Q3 2024 Q3 2023 Change
Consolidated Revenue $4.4 million $8.1 million -45%
Net Loss ($22.7 million) ($14.6 million) -56%
Electric Motorcycle Units Sold 99 50 +98%
STACYC Units Sold 3,442 7,231 -52%

Analysis of Financial Statements

LiveWire's balance sheet shows a decrease in cash and cash equivalents to $88.4 million from $167.9 million at the end of 2023, reflecting the company's cash burn rate. The reduction in cash is attributed to operating losses and capital expenditures. The company's total assets decreased to $178.3 million from $266.1 million, while total liabilities decreased to $40.6 million from $60.3 million, indicating a reduction in financial obligations.

Commentary and Future Outlook

“While the two-wheel industry has been challenging in 2024, especially for EV products in the U.S., the Company had reasons to celebrate in Q3, including being awarded best 2024 electric bike by Motor Cycle News and enjoying a global moment for S2 Del Mar® in August in Paris,” said Karim Donnez, CEO, LiveWire.

LiveWire Group Inc's focus on cost reduction initiatives, including streamlining headcount and relocating LiveWire Labs to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is expected to improve operational efficiency. However, the company continues to face industry headwinds and competitive pressures in the electric vehicle market.

Explore the complete 8-K earnings release (here) from LiveWire Group Inc for further details.