Paris is timeless, a city whose charm is intact. Yet Paris is also traffic. A great deal of traffic. Paris is the Piaggio MP3 500, the new flagship of a range that has undergone a complete renewal. To continue a story that has gone from success to success, especially in France. Paris is the mirror of a mobility phenomenon launched by the innovative Italian three-wheeler. Larger-diameter wheels, a smoother, easier-to-manage engine, an ECO map to save on fuel, high-quality finishes and a re-styled rear look: the new MP3 500 (available in Business and Sport versions) has beaten expectations, re-establishing the scooter’s lead in a category, three-wheel individual mobility, that has seen new models, new manufacturers and project philosophies arrive on the market. The Piaggio MP3, however, was the first and is still unbeatable. And Paris is confirmed as its country of choice.

RIDING SAFE WITH ABS AND ASR



Put to the test on the streets of Paris, the city that consecrated it as the gold standard across Europe, the new MP3 500 has been designed to accommodate a series of devices supporting the rider. Some of these are concerned with safety – this is the first three-wheeler in the world equipped with an ABS braking system integrated with an exclusive ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) system, a Piaggio Group technological first – and help make the riding experience on the Piaggio three-wheeler easier and safer. Other devices meet only apparently secondary needs, such as route information, data on vehicle behaviour, itinerary management.

CONNECTED TO THE WORLD WITH THE PMP

Paris hosted the recent international press launch for the Piaggio MP3 500. After the first dynamic test in the morning, there was a surprise in the afternoon: on a special bracket mounted on the handlebar, the journalists found an iPhone 5. Linked to a special control unit, the smartphone, like an iPod, acts as the interface for the Piaggio Multimedia Platform, developed to give the rider information and services in addition to those usually provided by the vehicle instruments. There are four main categories: virtual dashboard; additional trip computer with data recording; vehicle safety and diagnostic alerts; advanced navigation functions. Data is transmitted via Bluetooth from the control unit to the smartphone, where all the journalists have to do is download and open the free PMP app. The ride begins!

A MULTIMEDIA PLATFORM FOR THE RIDER
From the foot of the Eiffel Tower we head for La Défense, the skyscraper district. We keep an eye on the iPhone display, which, via the PMP, has been transformed into a virtual dashboard. It shows five types of information simultaneously, selected by the rider. And there is a large choice: speed, engine revs, torque, power, battery voltage, average and real-time consumption. The most interesting is the information people usually never bother about: estimated angle of tilt, longitudinal acceleration and rear-wheel acceleration slip, something exclusive to MP3s like ours, equipped with ABS and ASR.

The estimated tilt angle, shown in degrees, is particularly interesting due to the particular technical characteristics of the MP3, whose two front wheels enable it to deliver a unique dynamic performance. Down the broad Parisian boulevards and then round the bends of the financial district, the tilt angle acquires real significance, shedding light on the added value of the MP3 in terms of riding safety. Furthermore, a special “Grip Warning” appears when road grip limits are continually exceeded: a plain invitation to take care.

EVERYTHING UNDER CONTROL, FROM THE TYRES TO FUEL
We take a look at the tyres: just select the specific PMP function to check tyre pressure. Based on the tyres’ rolling resistance, the system verifies the correct pressure, without the need for sensors. Meanwhile, we use the touch screen, active only at speeds of under 5 km/h to avoid dangerous distractions when riding, to modify the information displayed by the virtual dashboard. The ECO Ride function presents clear infographics on the efficiency of our riding style, essential at a time of environmental awareness and high fuel costs.

ON-BOARD NAVIGATOR: YOU CAN’T GET LOST
How do you avoid getting lost in a chaotic city like Paris? By activating the PMP’s navigation system. This is not an alternative to a traditional navigator, which is already provided by the iPhone 5, but an extra support: for example, with “Find my Bike”, the PMP records the vehicle’s GPS position so the scooter can be found quickly when parked in unfamiliar locations (and is also a useful anti-theft device). It also displays the nearest fuel service stations, and Piaggio Service centres. Whether you need to fill up your tank or have your vehicle serviced, the information can be easily accessed.

ROUTE RECORDING AND STORAGE
After testing the MP3 in a city environment like Paris where it is an undoubted star, why not keep a log of your route? No sooner said than done: the on-board computer and the PMP record key information, including distance, top and average speed, average fuel consumption and… maximum tilt! Everything you need to compare your riding style with your friends. And before parking our new MP3 500, we make a quick check of the vehicle. Thanks to the Piaggio Multimedia Platform.

PRESS TEST
Below is a brief selection of the many international press reports on the test rides in Paris. Three from France (a tribute to the French market, which has a passion for the MP3) and one from Britain.

TEST MOTOR LIVE - PIAGGIO MP3 500 LT ABS/ASR 2014
L'évolution attendue!

• photo
• video

TEST MOTOSTATION - PIAGGIO MP3 500IE LT ABS-ASR:
Coup dur pour la concurrence!

• photo
• video

TEST MOTOR-INFOS: PIAGGIO MP3 500 SPORT ABS/ASR 2014

• photo
• video

TEST RAPTORAMA UK – PIAGGIO MP3 SPORT ABS IN PARIS

• photo
• video

In 2006 Piaggio brought the future to today inventing a new form of transport. With Mp3, Piaggio reinvented city transport. Piaggio Mp3 is the world's first 3-wheel scooter, the concrete response to the demand for easy-to-handle, extremely safe city vehicles to get about in the city or reach the city centre from the ever growing suburbs. The two front wheels and the exclusive patented suspension system joining them combine the safety of a car with the simplicity and practicality of a scooter and the fun of a motor cycle with dynamic riding when turning. Therefore Piaggio Mp3 is able to satisfy a truly global demand: from drivers looking for a more practical yet safe alternative to the experienced motorcyclist able to appreciate the advantages and technical features of a vehicle that has, on its own, created a new market segment of which it is the undisputed leader.
After 150,000 units sold with extraordinary distribution points in the major European cities, Piaggio launches the new Mp3 three-wheeled scooter range. Just a few months after the introduction of the revolutionary Piaggio Mp3 500 the 300 version is coming to the market, particularly suited for quickly manoeuvring through the city. This means that the new Piaggio Mp3 is now available in two different engine sizes, each of which is available in two different versions – Sport and Business – to complete a true family three-wheeled vehicle that is capable of meeting any and all daily mobility needs. The 300cc version maintains all the aesthetic and technical characteristics of the newly revamped Piaggio Mp3 which places it a step ahead of the competition, combining it with a high performance engine and reduced consumption. The 300cc 4-stroke 4-valve liquid-cooled engine with electronic injection delivers a maximum power of 16.5 kW (22.5 HP) at 7,500 rpm, with a torque output of 23.2 Nm at 6,500 rpm. These are figures that translate, on one side, into excellent response in acceleration during constant city stop-and-go riding and on the other into a top speed which is more than capable of handing motorway riding, guaranteeing the possibility of long range travel in total comfort.



NEW FRAME, NEW BODY, NEW FUNCTIONS
The Piaggio Mp3 300 stems from the newly revamped technical platform of the Mp3 500. The Piaggio Mp3 frame has been redesigned with the dual objective of providing, on the one hand, excellent stability and precision and, on the other, a wider range of uses. The new architecture meets these two important requirements, creating the best Piaggio Mp3 ever built in terms of dynamic qualities, safety standards and comfort for rider and passenger. The new space available improves the ergonomics and optimizes the use of the space under seat for loads.
The careful complete restyling adds more comfort on-board. The seat has become sumptuous: flat and comfortable for two people to sit on, an improvement on the earlier generation of the Piaggio Mp3, with ergonomic benefits, starting from the position of the legs, more extended and relaxed. In particular the new triangulation handlebars-saddle-footplate is larger, making riding easier and improving vehicle control. And it's not only the rider who benefits. Conceived as an alternative to the car, the new generation Piaggio Mp3 also provides additional passenger comfort: with increased space, and a more relaxed sitting position, plus the advantages of a pull-out footplate. The large compartment under the seat, fitted with 12 volt plug, courtesy light and mat, has been redesigned for additional uses, due to the regular, almost rectangular shape, without indentations or partitions, so every square centimetre can be used, for example to store two full-face helmets or a laptop holder. As before the seat opens electrically with power-assisted shock absorber for smooth, safe opening. The flat streamlined tail for an easily assembled box (just one of the many accessories available), further increasing the already exceptional load capacity of the new Piaggio Mp3.

NEW SAFETY: THE FIRST 3-WHEELER WITH ABS AND ASR
Piaggio Mp3 has been the first 3-wheeled scooter. Today, the new Piaggio Mp3 is the first three-wheeler in the world with ABS brake system integrated with ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) traction control.
The ASR system is an electronic traction control device regulating the driving wheel slippage. The ASR can be switched off simply and it guarantees safety by preventing the slippage of the rear wheel on slippery or wet roads and uneven surfaces, for excellent rear tyre grip and road holding in all conditions. The Piaggio Group is the first manufacturer to use rear wheel traction control for a scooter, in-house developed technology, based on racing experience and subsequently adapted and built into city vehicles.
The ABS system maximizes active safety preventing wheel blockage under braking and providing full control of the vehicle at all times. Developed specifically for the Piaggio Mp3, it uses a Continental control unit and three channels controlling the three wheels individually modulating only the braking force to prevent grip loss. The new version of the Piaggio Mp3 uses disc brakes on all three wheels, but the diameter of the front discs has been increased from 240 to 258 mm, helping to increase power and effectiveness, and reducing the braking distance. Greater safety and a smoother ride are provided by new larger front wheels with diameter up from 12 to 13 inches.
This is the resounding success due to the Mp3 exclusive Piaggio dual independent tilting front wheel technology, thanks to the four bar linkage suspension which the leading Group in Europe designed and developed before any other manufacturer in the world to ensure maximum riding pleasure in complete safety. This is the original project patented by Piaggio, with a roll mechanism comprising four aluminium alloy arms, fitted on four hinges on the central sleeve and two side sleeves connected to the arms by pins and ball bearings. Inside the side sleeves, the right-hand and left-hand steering tube rotates in a classic single-arm set-up.
The blocking mechanism of the front suspension, a distinguishing feature of the 3-wheel Italian scooter, transforms the balance of the Piaggio Mp3 from dynamic to static. Start up the Piaggio Mp3 and it stays in balance on the three wheels without the need for a stand (fitted nonetheless). To resume normal operation accelerate or use the dedicated push button. This means you never need to put your foot in the ground and you can park the Piaggio Mp3 anywhere, easily and without effort.

NEW STYLE, TO DISCOVER
The new Piaggio Mp3 has been given a completely new look, now more modern and elegant with evident hints of a motor car and a car-style refined finish and high perceived quality. The Style Centre of the Piaggio Group has completely redesigned the distinctive features, modernizing them and making them even more individualistic. The front shield recalls the original model but has a totally new form. The new smoke-grey windshield provides more protection and can be adjusted to three different heights. The headlights and indicators are new with high efficiency daytime lights with 7 LEDs, adapted from the auto industry and modernizing the look of the front of the scooter. The wheel rims boast a new and elegant 5 split spoke design: reminiscent of saloon cars and luxury autos.
The handlebars are new as is the complete set of modern instruments in two conventional round panels and a multi-purpose digital panel with data on fuel consumption (average and current), average and maximum speed, fuel gauge, travel time, ambient temperature and ice alarm. The instrument panel also includes a clock, dual mapping of the engine CPU, total and trip counter and battery voltage reader. The 11 lights on the instrument panel display the functioning of the headlights, dipped headlights, indicators, reserve fuel, oil pressure, warning (injection), immobilizer, ABS, ASR and four emergency lights. In the centre part, just beneath the display, a series of 4 warning lights are placed which indicate: roll lock warning, engine shut-down, no roll and hand brake. Push buttons under the handlebars are to open the saddle and switch off the ASR.
Also completely new is the central portion of the tunnel and counter-shield now with two anti-impact pads the colour of the saddle in front of the rider's knees. Complete with pull-out hook for bags. The compartment above the instruments now has a drawer and USB connection, ideal for recharging a smartphone and other devices.
The rear zone of the Piaggio Mp3 is very different from the earlier model, with a new body. The line was inspired by the latest generation of Piaggio GT maxi-scooters. The tail is more streamlined and dynamic, elegantly truncated, highlighting the sports character of the Piaggio Mp3, reflected in its exceptional road holding and tilt while turning. The surface finish is now smoother, reinforcing the streamlined look of the vehicle, which has a highly dynamic appearance. The tail stop and position lights incorporate LED technology. The parcel holder and passenger handle, in aluminium, complete the line of the new, super comfortable saddle.

PIAGGIO MULTIMEDIA PLATFORM: CONNECTED AT ALL TIMES BY SMARTPHONE
The sophisticated Piaggio Multimedia Platform, available from among the many dedicated accessories for the Piaggio Mp3, illustrated in the catalogue, connects your smartphone to the on-board electronic system, turning it into a multi-purpose instrument, a computer able to display simultaneously data such as speed, revs, engine power and torque in real time, as well as acceleration in a straight line, tilt in cornering, average and current fuel consumption, average speed and battery voltage among a host of other functions. A smartphone connected with the Piaggio Multimedia Platform can also be used to display maps and routes or to find the location, for example, of petrol stations or support services. The tyre status control function (only available for Mp3 300 and 500 equipped with the ABS/ASR) synergistically exploits the vehicle's sensors and the iPhone to monitor tyre wear and air, warning the user before any potentially critical situations arise; the function of general analysis shows the overall vehicle status.

TWO VERSIONS DIFFERENT CHARACTERS, SAME SAFETY
As before, the Piaggio Mp3 is available in Business and Sport versions, with dedicated equipment and colour schemes.
Piaggio Mp3 300 Business: sober and elegant. The Business version, elegant and city-friendly, characterized by a “Business” plate on the rear part of the tail, distinguishes itself through some prestige details, such as the chrome-plated exhaust pipe, the new brown saddle with dual lining, dedicated rear-view mirrors and the finish in gunmetal grey of the central tunnel, the handlebars and the passenger handles. The elegance of Piaggio Mp3 300 Business is highlighted by the two chrome-plated versions available: Bianco Iceberg (White) and Nero Universo (Black).
Piaggio Mp3 300 Sport: sporting and dynamic. The Sport version of Piaggio Mp3 300 is distinguished by the “Sport” plate on the rear of the tail and the numerous items with shiny black finish, such as the protection of the end of the exhaust pipe, the passenger handles, the handlebars and moulding of the central tunnel. The black saddle of the Sport version has a lining in two different materials. There are three dedicated colour schemes for the Sport version of the new Piaggio Mp3 300: Nero Carbonio (Black), Argento Cometa (Silver) and Blu Laguna (Navy Blue).

Coinciding with the 2014 Football World Cup in Brazil, the Museu da Casa Brasileira (MCB; instituição da Secretaria de Estado da Cultura) and the Italian Cultural Institute in São Paulo are holding a major exhibition on the world’s most famous Italian scooter, entitled “Vespa: um ícone italiano – História, Cultura e Design”. The event has been organised in cooperation with the Piaggio Foundation and Museum in Pontedera, the Multimedia Cinema Centre, and with the support of the Italian Embassy in Brazil.
Officially opened on 10 June 2014, the exhibition has won a warm response from the media, collectors and motorbike enthusiasts. It can be seen at the Museum in São Paulo/Museu da Casa Brasileira until 3 August.
The history of the celebrated scooter (and its presence in Brazil) is illustrated in a series of large panels and displays of dozens of Vespas, from the oldest models to the latest arrivals. The exhibition offers an extraordinary review of a product that has fascinated whole generations of enthusiasts in every continent, accompanying changing social customs and fashions.

PHOTO GALLERY

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

For the countless Vespa fans in Brazil, the “Scooteria Paulista” club (formed in 2010, and active in the cities of São Paulo, Santo André, São Bernardo do Campo, Osasco, Santos, Taboão da Serra, Ferraz de Vasconcelos, Jacareí and Mogi das Cruzes) has organised a special meeting.
TV Cronopios has filmed a special report on the exhibition, entitled “Ma che bella storia!” (What a wonderful story!) with an exceptional presenter: Ricardo Peruchi, the exhibition curator (and communication advisor at the Istituto Europeo di Design, IED São Paulo). The video includes interviews with collector Andreas Triantafyllo and a mention of the Scooteria Paulista club. Here’s the report.


Of the huge range of events organised in São Paulo for the World Cup, the exhibition on the Vespa has proved to be one of the most popular. It has also attracted wide media coverage: full-page items have appeared in the “Jornal Folha de São Paulo”, the capital’s leading daily, and in Brazil’s top design magazine, “Bamboo”, and numerous television reports have been broadcast, for example on the SBT and Band channels. The Vespa exhibition has also been reported outside Brazil, in the “Clarín”, Argentina’s main daily newspaper, and received wide attention in the Italian media.

His canvases are a riot of colour, the brilliant colours of his native Sicily. And one of their recurring subjects is the Ape three-wheeler (known on the island as the “Lapa”), a vehicle with a place in the memories of entire generations of Sicilians, just like the Vespa. Van and scooter are loaded with multi-coloured cottages, against backgrounds of sand, palm trees, meadows and clouds. Just a glance at the works of Antonello Blandi (a graphic artist with an agency in Palermo, born in 1963) puts you in a good mood. The effect is infectious: his exuberant creations have been bought by Hollywood stars like Sylvester Stallone and Tommy Lee Jones. Blandi has also exhibited his works at many shows, including the recent show at the Italian Cultural Institute in Los Angeles.

In the USA, Blandi’s works decorate some of the country’s best-known Sicilian restaurants, frequented by Italian and American VIPs; and his pictures are exhibited by Soho gallery owners. Blandi has also made his name as a graphic designer, a skill that requires synthesis and intuitive flair: he created the logo for Palermo’s official candidacy as 2016 European sport capital.

(Images and video clips from the following websites).
INFO:
www.siciliacolorata.it
www.antonelloblandi.com

An irresistible offer for summer 2014: the Vespa lifestyle collection has been enhanced with the two-tone “Beach & Cruise” kit. The kit comprises a beach bag; an iPad holder; a beach towel; a fouta. Four finely finished high-quality items, from Vespa brand. Irresistible!

PHOTO GALLERY

• 
• 
• 
• 

BEACH BAG:
with shoulder straps and a drawstring closure, in 100% quilted cotton canvas with eco-leather inserts and a sturdy plastic bottom. Embroidered Vespa logo. Nickeled details for a smart vintage effect. Dimensions: 45+2x30x25cm.

IPAD HOLDER:
in 100% quilted cotton canvas, resistant plastic back. Embroidered Vespa logo. Nickeled details for a smart vintage effect. Dimensions: 28x21x2cm.

BEACH TOWEL:
in 100% cotton jacquard with incorporated Vespa logo. Top and bottom border in 100% cotton canvas in a natural colour. Dimensions: 160x100cm.

FOUTA:
in 100% cotton jacquard, with hand-knotted fringed borders. Dimensions: 160x100cm.

SMART ACCESSORIES FOR A GREAT SUMMER

BANDANA:
in microfibre (100% polyester), consisting of a seamless tube of fabric; the bandana can be worn in many different ways for a personalised look (versions: “Betta Getta Vespa”, “Vespa Independence”; Vespa logo on blue or dark pink ground).

CAMOUFLAGE SCARF & T-SHIRT:
for her, a 70x70 scarf in soft cotton and viscose, with Vespa camouflage print and logo, to be worn with the white cotton Vespa t-shirt with matching pocket. An irresistible set, and a perfect gift.

T-SHIRTS AND POLO SHIRTS, FOR HIM AND FOR HER:
a collection of more than 50 Vespa branded t-shirts and polo shirts; a wide selection of staple items for the summer, to meet all tastes.

The entire collection of clothing, accessories and merchandise can be viewed on the Vespa Official Online Store and at top dealers.
www.vespa.com

They call themselves “The New Orleans Scooter Cooperative” and they are a group of two-wheeler enthusiasts from Louisiana with a passion for vintage scooters: they help other people restore their scooters and keep them in perfect condition, and they have a predilection for the Vespa. They also organise rallies and meetings, and produce and distribute videos to share their experiences and offer useful advice. Their first video, produced two years ago – American Scooter Webisode 1 – recounts how “the scoot coop guys” successfully “resuscitated” a friend’s 1980 Vespa ET3 Primavera.
The community was formed by a group of participants at the great annual “Amerivespa” rally, an event organised by the Vespa Club of America at the beginning of summer for the last 22 years. The rally is an itinerant event held in different American states in rotation. In 2012, it was organised at Lake Geneva in Wisconsin, when 660 scooters paraded along the lakeside (a record for North America), mostly Vespas, as well as some Piaggio MP3 and Gilera Fuoco models.

AMERIVESPA 2012

For the lads from New Orleans, it was an event not to be missed. The video clip documents their participation at Amerivespa, capturing the rally atmosphere and, above all, their passion for the legendary Italian scooter.

AMERICAN SCOOTER

In 2013, the rally took place in San Diego, California, while the 2014 Amerivespa (from 12–15 June) was in New Orleans. So this year the scoot coop guys were on their home turf, with their trusty Vespas. Next year’s Amerivespa rally will be held in Indianapolis.

PHOTO GALLERY

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
•