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Piaggio MP3 Series Sees Tech Boost


advrider

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Originally, the top-of-the-line three-wheeled Piaggio scooter was branded as a Gilera, and named the Fuoco 500. I had the pleasure of riding one of these around Lake Garda and up into the Dolomites. Once I started using the amazing stability, it was a pleasure to ride. When I came around one corner and found myself faced with ice, I pirouetted away like the princess in Disney on Ice, laughing like a maniac. I have liked these three-wheelers ever since.

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Even the MP3 530 hpe’s Gilera ancestor was a lot of fun in the mountains. Photo: The Bear

Piaggio must be counting on similar reactions – perhaps not the princess part – from a lot of other potential buyers because the three-wheeler series, with all models named MP3, is getting some serious upgrades. The Piaggio MP3 400 hpe and Piaggio MP3 400 hpe Sport are equipped with the 399cc engine that produces 35.4hp, while the Piaggio MP3 530 hpe Exclusive is the most powerful in its class with more than 44hp. Compared to the previous 500 hpe engine, the re-bored engine delivers higher torque.

The power output is important because keeps Piaggio ahead of the three-wheeler competition from other manufacturers. But it is perhaps not as significant as the added technology, which will make the scooters even more palatable to their upmarket target buyers. The Piaggio MP3s will be the first scooters in the world to be equipped with ARAS (Advanced Rider Assistance System), employing radar technology. In addition, they offer a 7-inch TFT color display, keyless start and connectivity including navigation. The MP3 530 hpe Exclusive adds cruise control as well as reverse complete with reversing camera, Blind Spot Assist and Lane Change Assist. It has three engine maps: Comfort, Eco and Sport.

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The front sends a clear don’t-mess-with-me message. Photo: Piaggio

The Gilera Fuoco 500 looked quite brutal, but the new models are far more elegant. The redesigned front fairing has been aerodynamically optimized, which is not just a matter of looks but will also improve driving dynamics. There is a new, horizontal headlight group, all LED along with the new taillight. The equally new air intake is covered by a wide and imposing car-like honeycomb grille. The rear of the MP3s, on the other hand, has been tidied up and is now much slimmer.

In Europe, three-wheeled scooters have a significant attraction for car drivers: the standard class B driver’s license is sufficient to ride them, without a scooter or motorcycle endorsement. Combined with the added security of the twin front wheels, that makes them a highly practical alternative to a car, for even a well-off commuter. In France alone, the MP3’s biggest market, 11,000 three-wheelers are sold each year.

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Not just practical, also a little… moody? Photo: Piaggio

All this is not cheap. Recommended retail price is 10,799 euros for the MP3 400 hpe; 11,299 euros for the MP3 400 hpe Sport; and 13,299 euros for the Piaggio MP3 530 hpe Exclusive. You can probably save a significant percentage of that in parking fees or fines per year.

Vezi sursa

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