Do you like the idea of reducing your carbon footprint but not the reality of ditching your conventional automobile? Many city dwellers have opted to go the scooter route for those shorter trips around town. They save money on fuel, take up less space and are better all-around for the environment than most cars and SUVs. If you're researching scooters, you might want to check out the newest scooter from the Piaggio Group, the makers of Vespa. What makes this three-wheeled scooter unique is that it is the world's first hybrid scooter to hit the market.
As the only vehicle to currently use lithium ion batteries, the Piaggio MP3 Hybrid has revolutionized auto industry standards for energy-efficient vehicles. The Piaggio MP3 Hybrid can travel approximately twice as far on the same gallon of gas as a typical fuel powered scooter with a mid-sized engine. In addition, carbon dioxide emissions are reduced by more than 50% as compared to a conventional gas-powered internal combustion engine scooter. This ride is an innovative option for those who care about the future of the world in which we live.
The Piaggio MP3 Hybrid ingeniously combines a fuel-powered engine with an electric motor in a manner that enhances performance of the scooter. This parallel hybrid drive system creates a vehicle that is both powerful and environmentally friendly. With a touch of a button, your scooter can run on electricity alone while producing zero emissions. Easily switch back to fuel power by again touching a button.
The Ride-by-Wire electronic accelerator system is another first for a scooter. As you control the torque via the throttle or brake, the integrated electronic management system of the Piaggio MP3 Hybrid determines the optimal amount of power that it needs and the degree to which to divide it from the two sources. Even when you're slowing down – or braking – the integrated management system is at work storing power in the battery for future use. After enjoying a day on the open road, just plug in the Piaggio MP3 Hybrid, and in approximately three hours it will be fully charged. As the first vehicle in the world to utilize lithium ion batteries, your scooter offers peak performance for an extended period as compared to other energy source options.
The Piaggio MP3 Hybrid won't make its way to the U.S. until early 2010. To find a dealer near you, check out PiaggioUSA.com.
