Order books open for all-electric Vespa Elettrica

The zero-emissions Vespa Elettrica is now available to order in the UK, with prices starting at £5,999.

Utilising a 4kW motor, the Elettrica can cover up to 62 miles on all-electric power while delivering more performance than a traditional 50cc petrol engine.

The scooter’s electric power and instant torque delivery makes it well suited to urban driving, where short bursts of acceleration are needed.

It also incorporates an energy recovery system, which can recharge the battery when decelerating. However, plugging the bike into a conventional domestic plug will see the vehicle recharged from flat in around four hours.

The charging cable it located in the compartment underneath the saddle, making it easy to find and stow away, too. The Elettrica also incorporates a multimedia system which allows the rider to pair a smartphone and a Bluetooth headset to the in-board software. This is then accessed via a 4.3-inch TFT screen.

Features such as incoming phone calls, the scooter’s speed, range and remaining battery charge can also be viewed through this screen. The rider can use either a joystick on the right handlebar or voice commands to control the system.

The Elettrica is differentiated against other Vespa models thanks to blue highlights which run down the length of the scooter, and along the saddle and back rest.

Available to order online only, customers need only place a deposit of £550 to secure their own Elettrica. The remaining balance will then be settled with a local dealer. Full sales of the Vespa Elettrica are expected to commence at the start of next year.