Piaggio MP3 hybrid to achieve 141 mpg!
Click above for more high-res shots of the Piaggio MP3 hybrid
We've been following the developments of Piaggio's hybrid MP3 since it was in its initial concept stages. Thankfully, it is getting ever closer to production, meaning some early details are beginning to leak out regarding its performance. Our friend Wes at Hell For Leather has procured some interesting tidbits regarding the hybrid three-wheeler, including astronomical fuel mileage rating of 141 miles per gallon. That's pretty amazing, though we're unsure of the conditions necessary to achieve that figure. Still, there are four modes available, including electric only and three separate hybrid options, that allow for the rider to achieve maximum efficiency or maximum performance.
While the scooter is capable of using its 125cc engine and regenerative braking to keep its batteries topped up, the machine can also be plugged into a normal electric outlet and can completely charge its batteries in three hours. We're not yet sure how much range of electric-only operation that will allow. The batteries are stored under the seat and there's still enough storage room left over for a full-face helmet. We had a great time riding the regular models, and we're ready for all the details on this exciting machine, including when it will officially go on sale.
Gallery: Piaggio MP3 hybrid scooter
[Source: Hell For Leather]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
maplewoodtransmission.com 2:50PM (11/12/2008)
i know a fellow that has one of these, the rear tires wear every 2500 miles
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stevefazek 11:05PM (11/12/2008)
Welcome to owning a motorcycle/scooter
LOL
Hey my m3 i would go through rear tires every 4,000-5,000 miles.
Thank you autocross
Brn 9:52AM (11/13/2008)
"we're unsure of the conditions necessary to achieve that figure"
Good point (ABG is getting better about this stuff). It'd be nice if we could compare apples to apples, as opposed to some figure just tossed out by the company to make it look good.
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Gary 11:33AM (11/13/2008)
It's a waste of money making a hybrid of a vehicle of like this.
A $200 yearly scooter gas bill versus a $300 "inefficient" gas bill is hardly worth it. A $100 difference? That's the cost of eating out once a month for a year.
Companies use the word "hybrid" to make customers feel good buying their products, without any hybrid benefits. Go do Dell's web site, and they are producing "Studio Hybrid" computers with an optional wood finish. What's "hybrid" about it? Sheesh.
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