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April 14, 2006
Vespa Hybrid Scooters
I've been seeing more and more Vespas here in California. I don't know if it's some retro fad the L.A.'ers are going thru or maybe there's some benefit to coasting really slowly on these clogged streets - whatever it is I just can't see it.
However, Vespa just unveiled two hybrid scooters, the retro LX 50 and the more sleek and modern Piaggio X8 (pictured above). Both scooters are essentially the same tech (the Piaggio has a bit more power). Both use a regenerative braking system which recaptures energy during breaking to recharge the two batteries located beneath the seat. You can also plug them into a wall socket for a full recharge in 3 hours. The company claims there is a 25% savings in energy and fuel. That's pretty damn good.
I still can't see myself on a Vespa but at least it's slightly more appealing to me now because of the tech.
more pictures of the retro LX 50 here
more picture of the sleek Piaggio here
Posted by tranism at 2:33 AM | Permalink
Comments
i bet you'd see yourself on a vespa if you had the prada badger-fur helmet.
Posted by: A.J. at April 16, 2006 4:02 PM