PIAGGIO MP3 IS NOW ALSO AVAILABLE WITH THE NEW 400 HPE ENGINE: HIGHER PERFORMANCE AND GREATER RIDING PLEASURE, WITH THE SAME PRACTICALITY AND SAFETY THAT HAS ALWAYS CHARACTERISED PIAGGIO MP3
THE PIAGGIO MP3 RANGE IS RENEWED, COMPRISING THE MORE URBAN 26 HP PIAGGIO MP3 300 HPE AND THE TWO “MAXI” MP3 400 HPE, WITH OVER 35 HP AND PIAGGIO MP3 500 HPE WITH OVER 44 HP, THE LATTER IN THE EXCLUSIVE SPORT ADVANCED VERSION, THE FIRST THREE-WHEELED SCOOTER WITH REVERSE
With MP3 Piaggio has skilfully reinvented urban mobility. The Piaggio MP3 is the world's first three-wheel scooter, a concrete response to the demand for easy-to-handle, extremely safe city vehicles that can get about in the city or reach the city centre from the ever growing suburbs. The two front wheels and exclusive patented suspension system that connects them combine the safety of a car with the simplicity and practicality of a scooter and the fun of a dynamic motorcycle ride on a twisty road. This is why Piaggio MP3 is able to satisfy 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 single handedly created a new market segment of which it is the undisputed leader.
New Piaggio MP3 range
The new Piaggio MP3 range represents the pinnacle of technological excellence applied to Piaggio Group scooters. The 400 and 500 cc engine sizes are able to satisfy any and all everyday mobility needs: And let's not forget that the Piaggio MP3 300 hpe is also part of the range, a model that differs distinctly from the two “maxi” 400 and 500 units, equipped with the same three-wheel technology but characterised by compact dimensions and performance dedicated specifically to urban mobility.
The Piaggio MP3 400 hpe and 500 hpe Sport Advanced have a modern and elegant look that incorporates clear references to the car world with its refined finish and high level of perceived quality. The grille featuring on the front shield, designed by the Piaggio Group's Centro Stile, is paired with modern turn signals and DRL lights complete with LED technology. In terms of comfort, the smoke windscreen presents integrated hand protectors, while the seat makes use of comfortable foam. Important details that, in addition to the already perfect handlebar-seat-foot board triangulation, underscore the Piaggio MP3 attitude to touring and sustained daily riding. Great attention has been paid to the comfort of the passenger, who can enjoy a comfortable portion of the seat, as well as a backrest and ergonomic grab handles. The passenger can therefore adopt a relaxed riding position, thanks also to the presence of pull-down foot pegs. The large under-seat compartment, complete with courtesy light and mat, is designed to ensure maximum usage; the roughly rectangular shape, without layers or separators, ensures that every square centimetre can be used. There's room to comfortably fit two full-face helmets or a computer bag. The seat opening mechanism, which can also be activated remotely with Bike Finder (remote turn signal switch-on) and with the Piaggio MIA app, is electrically powered and assisted by a practical damper to ensure safe opening and closure. The dashboard includes a modern set of 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, and ambient temperature with ice alarm. The instrument panel also includes a clock, total and trip counter and battery voltage reader. The 11 lights on the instrument panel represent high beam function, indicator usage, reserve fuel, oil pressure, warning (injection), immobilizer, ABS, ASR and four emergency lights. In the central section, just beneath the display, a series of 4 warning lights indicate: operation of the DRL lights; roll lock activated; parking brake activated and operation of Piaggio MIA. Push buttons under the handlebars are used to open the saddle and switch off the ASR.
The leg shield back plate has two anti-impact pads the colour of the saddle in front of the rider's knees. There is also a convenient, retractable bag hook. The compartment above the instruments has a drawer and USB connection, ideal for recharging a smartphone and any other enabled device.
The Piaggio 400 hpe engine: performance and efficiency
Accredited with maximum power of 26 kW (35.4 HP) at 7000 rpm and maximum torque of 37.7 Nm at 5500 rpm, the 400 MP3 hpe engine makes its début on the Piaggio MP3, built on the base of the previous 350 cc unit which it replaces. It is a single-cylinder, four-stroke and four-valve engine, liquid cooled and fuel injected which has always been considered one of the best powerplants in its class. It stands out for a few motorcycle-derived solutions, such as the automatic multi plate wet clutch, which guarantees better and more consistent performance over time, even in conditions of high thermal stress, eliminating the pesky jerkiness you get with common transmissions when starting from a standstill and ensuring an extraordinary riding experience.
Nevertheless, the substantial difference between the previous 350 and the new 400 does not lie simply in an increase of displacement: although starting from an already extremely efficient engine, the Piaggio engineers focused on multiple aspects with the goal of further improving mechanical and thermodynamic performance, as well as reducing vibrations and noise.
The use of a longer rod with optimised weight, as well as a piston that has also been lightened and moulded in aluminium alloy - solutions that are not common, usually dedicated to high-level motorcycle applications - contributed to reducing the alternating inertia forces, resulting in less vibration transmitted to the vehicle. All of this translates into greater overall comfort, particularly at cruising speed - an aspect that highlights the suburban touring character of the Piaggio MP3 400 hpe.
On the 400 hpe, which maintains the exceptional characteristics of light weight and compact size as the 350 (weight and bulk remain substantially the same), an innovative system patented by Piaggio makes its début, called PCV - Positive Crankcase Ventilation: comprising two blades built into the engine crankcase, it aims to reduce pumping losses, thereby favouring an increase in power.
Engine output, in terms of both power and torque, benefits from a new, specific intake line and optimised valve lifting. A new progressive type chain tensioner, on the other hand, contributes to quieter timing operation.
Overall efficiency benefits from several changes in various areas: these include optimisation of the combustion chamber using CFD calculations, a new high pressure injector that atomises the fuel more and the use of a less viscous engine oil (5W-40). The transmission has also been revisited, with the automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT) that has a new layout, developed to improve cooling of the belt, to which a larger diameter fan also contributes.
The iridium spark plug are also new, as is the powerful Magneti Marelli MIUG4 ECU. This increases performance considerably as compared with the previous 350: 16% more power, peaking 1500 rpm lower and 30% more torque, peaking 750 rpm lower - values that ensure extremely high riding pleasure.
Piaggio MP3 500 hpe Sport Advanced
Piaggio MP3 500 hpe Sport Advanced proposes the great new feature of reverse gear, implemented for the first time in the world on a three-wheeled scooter. A function that further heightens the practicality of Piaggio MP3, making for easier, less physical parking even in narrow garages or in situations where there is limited room to manoeuvre, increasingly likely in the city. Reverse gear is activated via a dedicated control on the dashboard, with the engine on and the vehicle at a standstill.
The Piaggio 500 hpe engine: performance and fun
Piaggio's "half litre" engine is extremely robust and reliable. The single-cylinder 500 cc, 4-valve, liquid cooled engine is fed by electronic injection; it is the most powerful in its category and adopts a multimap “Ride-by-Wire” electronic acceleration system that improves engine delivery and smoothness at low revs, and therefore the rideability of Piaggio MP3, giving the rider the possibility to switch engine mapping by pressing a button on the handlebar, prioritising either performance or fuel containment.
Piaggio MP3 500 hpe Sport Advanced is fitted with the latest evolution of the single-cylinder engine called hpe (High Performance Engine), updated to comply with the Euro 5 standard and confirmed in all of its features. Compared with the previous engine, the updates made serve to boost performance, reducing fuel consumption while at the same time improving the tone of the exhaust. The single camshaft distribution system with roller tappets gains a camshaft with optimised timing and valve lift speeds. The intake line can count on a generous filter box that optimises the air/fuel ratio, improving torque at low revs and ensuring an exceptionally smooth ride at any speed. The result is maximum power equal to 44.2 HP at the camshaft. Last, but not least, the Piaggio MP3 500 hpe Sport Advanced exhaust system allows for a reduction in perceived noise and an optimisation of the sound, with a more sports-orientated connotation.
Ultimate safety: three wheels, ABS and ASR
All models in the Piaggio MP3 range adopt the ABS anti-locking braking system integrated with ASR traction control (Acceleration Slip Regulation). ASR (first brought to scooters by Piaggio) can be easily disconnected and guarantees safety by keeping the rear wheel from slipping on dangerous surfaces like wet asphalt.
The three channel ABS system, developed in collaboration with Continental, maximizes active safety preventing wheel blockage when braking and providing full control of the vehicle at all times. The Piaggio MP3 employs an all-disc braking system on the three wheels, with a disc diameter of no less than 258 mm. Greater safety and an even smoother ride are provided by the large 13 inch diameter front wheels.
The Piaggio MP3 also owes its success to exclusive patented Piaggio technology for the dual independent, tilting front wheels regulated by a unique 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. The roll mechanism is made up of four fused aluminium arms linked to four hinges that are firmly connected to the central sleeve, and two side sleeves connected to the arms by means of pivots 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 for the front suspension, a distinguishing feature of the three-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.
Versions and colours
Piaggio MP3 400 hpe comes in two colour variants, Nero Lucido and Grigio Materia, elegant colour schemes combined with the new black saddle and the grey painted wheel rims. Piaggio MP3 400 hpe Sport is available in four colour variants: Nero Meteora; Bianco Luna, Argento Cometa and Blu Zaffiro, all colours combined with aggressive black wheel rims and saddles.
Piaggio MP3 500 hpe Sport Advanced is available in four colour variants, all matte: Nero Meteora and Blu Zaffiro, Argento Cometa and Marrone Terra, all four combined with black wheel rims and saddles.
PIAGGIO MIA: connected at all times by smartphone
Offered as standard on MP3 400 hpe and MP3 500 hpe Sport Advanced, the PIAGGIO MIA connectivity system allows you to connect your smartphone (iOS or Android) to the Piaggio vehicle's on-board electronic system via Bluetooth, offering exclusive features for an even more rewarding and enjoyable riding experience.
Once you've connected your smartphone to Piaggio MP3 - using the dedicated Piaggio app, available for download from the App Store or Google Play - the system lets you manage telephone calls using the specific connectivity button located on the left-hand handlebar block, as well as using the smartphone's voice commands to place calls or play music, activating your favourite playlist.
In addition to call and music management, the Piaggio MIA multimedia platform lets you use your smartphone to see a wealth of information on the route you've ridden and the operating status of the vehicle, as well as a convenient system that memorises the location the last time the ignition is switched off to help you find your scooter in the more chaotic areas of the city. The application can also indicate engine revs, instantaneous power and torque, current and average fuel consumption, battery voltage and an assessment of riding style. All the data are recorded by the App and can be consulted directly on the smartphone through summary statistics for each trip and intuitive infographics. The App also lets you use your smartphone to conveniently activate the find me and follow me functions, which respectively make the turn indicators flash and the horn blow to easily find your vehicle even in the most crowded car parks and the low beam lights.
A complete range of accessories
The range of accessories for Piaggio MP3 is based on a precise design philosophy: combining unparalleled on-board comfort with genuine everyday usability, in keeping with its role as a metropolitan commuter.
The large rear top box, which can be quickly unhooked and has a 50 litre capacity, can house two full-face helmets. The upper shell is painted the same colour as the vehicle and comes complete with comfortable backrest to make the passenger's ride more enjoyable. The top box is also available in a 37-litre version.
The optional windscreen in high quality anti-splinter material ensures excellent protection against the wind and bad weather. A great deal of care is taken regarding the aesthetics, with rods featuring the same finish as other vehicle details.
In addition, the leg cover, an increasingly important accessory for commuters whatever the season and regardless of weather conditions, is specifically designed to provide maximum protection against the cold and the rain. Safety-orientated, with a design to suit the vehicle, the leg cover also offers maximum stability at high speeds. In addition to the traditional leg cover, a Comfort+ cover is available, a «hi-end» concept to maximise riding comfort all year round: designed to fit the shape of the vehicle, water-resistant, modular and easily packed away, it is coated in TPU and features an innovative anti-wave system with stiffening plates.
To ensure maximum comfort in all conditions, a heated accessory kit is also available: a heated element to insert into the leg cover and heated hand grips, managed by a dedicated control unit that offers four temperature levels.
Included in the available accessories are also two anti-theft systems, one electronic and one mechanical.
The Comfort+ saddle guarantees great comfort thanks to an innovative, three-dimensional elastic material and optimisation of the seating volumes. Its design, with contrasting inserts and an electro-welded logo, make for an even more exclusive accessory.
A new range of dedicated helmets is available with the Piaggio MP3 range, the models offering hi-tech design, safety, comfort and maximum protection.
The Piaggio line of modular helmets, with thermoplastic resin shell and opening chin piece, stand out for their innovative design. With a removable and washable anti-allergenic lining, a micrometric fastening system, a drop-down sun visor, a scratch-resistant outer visor and a ventilation system with numerous vents in the shell, these helmets offer impeccable rider comfort. Available in white, blue and black, it matches the vehicle colours perfectly. ECE 22-05 certified.
For short trips, urban commuting or "lighter" rides in contact with the wind, there is the Mirror demi-jet helmet with double visor (transparent exterior and hidden sun visor). This helmet offers a really easy, lightweight fit, with interior fittings that can be removed and washed and micrometric closure. The look is characterised by a longitudinal band that replicates the three-dimensional hexagon graphics, and a wide range of colours, all to match those of the Piaggio MP3.
Easy to wear, comfortable and lightweight, the Piaggio range Touch summer gloves ensure outstanding sensitivity on the handlebar controls and great comfort while riding Piaggio MP3. Safety is guaranteed thanks to the abrasion-resistant (yet elasticated) material, large reinforcement zone on the palm and the soft rubber knuckle protection, almost invisible during use. The gloves have tactile inserts that let you control touchscreens on modern devices and are EN 13459 certified.