Piaggio launches PHEV MP3 Scooter

[JSH]

From Motorcycle-USA:

"European manufacturer Piaggio has officially introduced its MP3 Hybrid scooter. The gas/electric hybrid concept first debuted in 2007, when it was dubbed the HyS and proposed to be fitted on a number of Piaggio scooter models, including the MP3 as well as more conventional two-wheeled designs. Now a production reality, the MP3 Hybrid will hit the European streets using a conventional 125cc internal combustion engine mated to a brushless electric motor. The MP3 Hybrid is slated to cross the Atlantic as a 2010 US model......"

Piaggio MP3 Hybrid Scooter Debuts - Piaggio Scooter First Look - Motorcycle USA

[Tideland Prius]

It's finally here! And there's a Piaggio dealer in my city.

[TonyPSchaefer]

YES!!!

Someone posted about that last year and I got anxious. Now I'm downright giddy. I so severely want one of these. For nice days, it's a better way to get to and from work. My only question: where do I put the coffee mug?

[realale]

Originally Posted by TonyPSchaefer

My only question: where do I put the coffee mug?

Camelbak.

Cheers,

Dave

[Fibb222]

I own the MP3 250 - that's how I commute - and I soooooooo want to upgrade to the new hybrid version when it comes to town. I get 74 mpg CDN now which is terrible when you consider how much less it weighs compared to my 60 mpg Prius.

[Tideland Prius]

Originally Posted by Fibb222

I own the MP3 250 - that's how I commute - and I soooooooo want to upgrade to the new hybrid version when it comes to town. I get 74 mpg CDN now which is terrible when you consider how much less it weighs compared to my 60 mpg Prius.

And considering you can get 72mpg in the Prius (3.9L/100km or 60mpg US) over a tank. The PHEV should be better.

[Fibb222]

Any questions on how it handles?

[Tideland Prius]

Originally Posted by Fibb222

Any questions on how it handles?

Sure, do share if you've test driven one already.

[JSH]

Originally Posted by Fibb222

Any questions on how it handles?

Not really. I test rode a MP3 250 when they first came out as was amazed at similar the ride was to a conventional motorcycle. I was impressed with the additional stopping power provided by the two front wheels along with the resistance to low-sides. My only complaint was the limited ground clearance on the left side and cramped seating position. (I touched down hard parts on my test ride.) If the hybrid has even less clearance that could be a problem.

The key will be how much it costs. I can't see spending more than $10K even for the hybrid. Even then it will be a hard sell.

• For $10K I could get an all-electric Zero S for city riding.
• For $2,500 I could get the 120 mpg SYM Symba scooter

Still it is exciting to see a PHEV vehicle offered for sale by a major manufacturer.

[Fibb222]

Originally Posted by Tideland Prius

Sure, do share if you've test driven one already.

Just the regular gas one.

It leans nicely in the corners. I do get a lot a stares and finger pointing. Even laughter. Most people assume it is a trike and can't lean. I try to prove to them that it can ever chance I get with some cool cornering. I'm impressed with the pick up but it can't glide or even coast. It slows down quickly without the throttle. Probably why it doesn't have very good mileage compared to a Prius.