After launching a 125cc version of its three wheeled MP3 in 2009, touted as the worlds first hybrid scooter, Piaggio is upping the ante by introducing a more powerful 300cc version that still offers incredible efficiency. The MP3 Hybrid 300ie has a 278cc engine claimed to get 141 mpg in Hybrid Power mode while emitting half of the CO2 emissions of a comparable combustion-only powered scooter. But dont think its riding experience is watered-down as Piaggio reports that the powertrain of the 300ie performs comparably to a conventional gas-powered 400cc scooter while distributing the output between 65% Hybrid Power mode and 35% electric. During standing starts or whenever riding situations call for quick acceleration, the electric motor supplements the power of the combustion engine to provide a claimed 30% boost in power.

The MP3 300ie combines lithium ion batteries located underneath the seat with plug-in convenience for recharging the power source. The scooter charges via a power cable that plugs into a standard electrical socket. It charges fully in three hours, and juices up to 85% in only two. The batteries also recharge using part of the energy of the gas-burning engine and by recovering energy created when braking. It can also run solely as zero-emissions electric vehicle for limited spurts of approximately 20km.

The MP3 Hybrid 300ie mates a 278cc gasoline-powered engine with a synchronous brushless permanent magnet motor for propulsion. Its parallel hybrid drive system takes the power from both the electric motor and the internal combustion engine and transfers it to the automatic CVT transmission.

The 300ie features a ride-by-wire throttle system that sends signals to the onboard electronics of the Vehicle Management System which decides how much power to draw from the electric motor and combustion engine. The techno-scooter offers four drive modes two hybrid and two electric. Switching to hybrid or fully electric mode is as easy as pushing a button on the right handlebar. Riders can toggle between modes even when on the move. It also has a reverse gear controlled by the electric motor.

The new MP3 Hybrid 300ie still features Piaggios quadrilateral front suspension layout that consists of four aluminum arms and two steering tubes. This allows the MP3 to tilt into corners and provides a ride comparable to a standard motorcycle. It also has an electronic front suspension lock system that allows riders to stop without the need to put their feet down and to park without using a kickstand.

Right now its only available in Europe, but is expected to be soon available in the United States as well as it already passes stringent Euro 3 emission standards. Initially, it is offered in one color, pearl white with a two-tone saddle. The storage compartment under the seat is said to be big enough to hold a helmet with a little space left over for other gear. Two new buttons have been added to its cockpit, a horn on the left and a Hy Tech button on the right for toggling through the four operating modes. Piaggio is also producing a variation called the MP3 Hybrid LT 300ie, with more space between the front wheels. This model could then be operated by owners with only a license to drive a car, expanding its potential customer base.

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MSRP: $7999 Euro; $9,790 US

Source: http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/634/73...e-Scooter.aspx

More info: http://www.piaggiogroup.com/news/201...00ie_en_en.htm

This is exciting stuff and I want one... now