Piaggio is Europe's number one producer of scooters. Scooters are a vital part of many people's day to day adventures throughout Europe. They are used much more frequently there than here and are essential to the transportation needs of many individuals.
Now, Europeans will have the opportunity to purchase a hybrid scooter from Piaggo for only $12,600. Officially named the Three Wheeled MP3 Scooter, it utilizes two wheels in front with a single wheel out back.
Yes it's pricey, but it does offer a lot of features that are not commonly found on scooter. Starting with the hybrid powertrain, the scooter utilizes a lithium-ion battery to store energy. The battery is mated to a standard 125cc gas motor and a 2.6 kilowatt electric motor. The combined output rings in at 15 hp and 12 lb-ft. of torque.
The powertrain combines to offer up to 140 mpg on the European cycle and about 110 to 120 mpg by U.S. standards. Piaggio will be the first scooter producer to make a hybrid version available for sale in Europe, but other major makes are right behind them including Honda and Yamaha.
The Piaggo Three Wheel MP3 Scooter will come to our shores next year as the company is waiting on the 10% price cut incentive that will be offered here for both motorcycles and scooters.
Piaggio is best known for their Vespa scooter which has become a European icon and rare old examples garner high bids at auction. They plan to extend their hybrid range to include additional model lines in the near future.
Source: Edmunds.com
