Auto Expo 2012 Piaggio Vehicles unveils iconic Vespa

Piaggio Vehicles Private Limited (PVPL), the 100% subsidiary of the Piaggio Group, showcased a new iteration of its iconic Vespa at the 11th edition of Delhi Auto Expo 2012. The Vespa is known for its unique styling, which has helped it in carving a niche for itself in the social history.

The Italian manufacturer first launched the Vespa in 1946 in Italy and the model has been a symbol of a distinctive lifestyle in global automobile market since then. Vespa holds the distinction of being the world’s first scooter and has become the symbol of ‘made in Italy’ and ‘a new, unique way of enjoying mobility'. Currently, Vespa is available in over 100 countries and the company has sold more than 17 million units since its launch.

Piaggio is looking forward to repeat the success in the Indian automobile market by creating a premium segment for its Vespa. The company wants to establish the scooter as a lifestyle, iconic, ageless and timeless product that will make indelible imprints as a product that reflects values and heritage. Vespa will be suitable for Indian buyers who are brand conscious and do not want to compromise on fashion and style, setting themselves apart from the masses. It will become an unbeatable force in the market, catering to those who want to have nothing less than the best.

In years to come, Vespa will aim to take the top position in the two-wheeler segment in the country as it will surely entice a majority of customers who only settle for the best. The company will establish the Vespa Club in India later this year for Vespa enthusiasts, which will allow them to join an exclusive group that celebrates the Vespa pedigree. The Vespa World Club was set up in the year 2006 that enabled 685 Vespa Clubs and 35 National Vespa club Federations to share their common passion.

Mr. Ravi Chopra, Chairman and Managing Director, Piaggio Vehicles Pvt. Ltd, was present during the unveiling of Vespa at the Delhi Auto Expo. He stated, "Our foray into the Indian market activates a whole new segment of style and fashion conscious consumers who are looking for a premium, exclusive, lifestyle offering reflecting their personalities and attitudes. We would like to leverage this sizeable untapped market segment that shows tremendous potential for growth in the coming years".

In order to manufacture the Vespa, Piaggio India has established a world class production unit at Baramati, Maharashtra. This plant has the initial installed capacity of 1,50,000 units and will be launched in 35 major Indian cities in April 2012.