Piaggio still working on hybrid scooters, tests hybrid engine in MP3
When the Moon is in the Seventh House
And Jupiter aligns with Mars
Then peace will guide the planets
And love will steer the stars
This is the dawning of the Age of... the hybrid scooter? Maybe. Piaggio has been stringing us along with this idea for too long. Now, they go and install the system in their ultra-cool new leaning three-wheeled scooter, the MP3. I wonder how the hybrid MP3 would compete with the rumored all-electric Vectrix version of the MP3.
While we are dreaming, let me remind you of the BMW C1 scooter, which I've never actually seen close-up. That scooter featured a roof with a real windshield and was supposed to be found safe in crash testing. I would love to see that idea picked back up by a major manufacturer, like Piaggio. Combine the windshield and a sliding canvas roof with the MP3 front end... and power it with the Vectrix electric system. Am I asking for too much here? Is there anybody else out there that would jump on that if it were priced around $10,000 or so? Count me in!
[Source: 2 Stroke Buzz]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Stephen L Smith 11:24AM (6/26/2008)
I am a current owner of a BMW C1. I also have connections in the far east who will fabricate parts for motorcycles. I tried writing to the Piaggio company offering to undertake an after market project and if it was possible that I could get hold of supply of base level scooters (i.e. partly built)to which I would design and attach a C1 like roof. As you say, this equipment provided significant protection in the event of an accident rather than from the weather. Alas, not even the courtesy of a reply.....such arrogance. It would be better to have the whole thing designed in China to similar specs since the 3 wheel design concept has been around for many years and it would be difficult to argue patent infringement. An MP3 with a decent cage, seat belts and some side weather protection just might attract more people out of cars espacially with a hybrid engine although all the weight might prove a problem
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