“The historic Italian company celebrates with the special Vespa 140TH, available in limited number from April 18 to April 21
Only 140 pieces will be produced by the Piaggio Style Center and presented at Vespa World Days 2024
In celebrating a significant milestone of 140 years, Piaggio launches a unique Vespa: the “Limited Edition” Vespa 140th. Designed to capture the essence of elegance and innovation, this Vespa is not just a means of transportation but is destined to become a true collector’s item.
Conceived by the renowned Piaggio Style Center, this Limited Edition is designed to honor the rich heritage of the brand. The special model will be released in only 140 pieces, making it a unique opportunity for enthusiasts and collectors, and available for sale exclusively during the four days of the Vespa World Days 2024 scheduled from April 18 to 21 in Pontedera, a symbolic location and the historic headquarters of Piaggio.
Vespa 140th: a unique “jewel” in design and features
The Limited Edition stands out for its design that perfectly balances classic and modern: the base of the GTV 300 HPE model has been enhanced with sporty and hi-tech finishes including a low headlight and an exposed handlebar.
Its white body is embellished with blue and sky blue graphics that reflect the institutional colors of the Piaggio Group, perfectly integrated with the new monogram and the logo of the 140th anniversary. The blue saddle, designed to ensure maximum comfort, and the dedicated wheel rims enhance the exclusive look of this Special Edition.
Each Vespa 140th will be marked with a numbered plaque that certifies its authenticity and exclusivity: these details increase the collectible value of the vehicle and promise to make it a valuable investment over time.
Available for purchase online on the official Vespa website or physically at the Vespa Village during the event, the Limited Edition represents a unique occasion for fans of the brand and lovers of two-wheelers.
Piaggio: an Italian icon of innovation and style
Piaggio has always been more than just a brand. It is a symbol of Italian culture and ingenuity that has played a fundamental role in the country’s history. Founded in Genoa at the end of the 1800s by Rinaldo Piaggio and his son Enrico, the company started as a manufacturer of naval furnishings with notable works such as the furnishings of the transatlantic Rex. This unique capacity for innovation marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey through various industrial sectors.
During World War I, the demand for aircraft pushed Piaggio to diversify production, starting to manufacture fuselages and wings for airplanes. The acquisition of Pegna-Bonmartini in 1923 brought brilliant engineers to the company, whose contribution was crucial in the development of the variable pitch propeller and other crucial innovations for aviation.
The expansion did not stop here: in the 1930s, Piaggio acquired the Budd Company of Philadelphia, integrating innovative patents for the production of steel trains. This led to the development of the Zephyr, presented at the Milan trade fair in 1936, and to the realization of civil engineering projects like the Sanremo cable car.
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Vespa: from Its origins to the “Boom era”
World War II temporarily oriented production towards the military sector, but after the war, Piaggio focused on new mobility projects. In 1945, the MP6, later renamed “Vespa” by Enrico Piaggio for its unique shape, was born. This revolutionary vehicle not only changed the way Italians moved but also became a global symbol of Italian style, consecrated by films like “Roman Holiday”.
In the 1960s, Vespa led a commercial boom supported by the popularity of the fifty models, which could be driven by young people without the need for a license.
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A history of tradition and safety
With the death of Enrico Piaggio in the 1960s, the company continued to innovate, focusing on two and three-wheeled vehicles and introducing the “Ciao” in 1967 and the “Sfera” in the 1980s. 1996 marked the introduction of the high-wheel scooter, the Liberty, followed by the development of the MP3, the first three-wheeled scooter to achieve international success. The focus on safety continued with the development of advanced control units and sensors that improve the safety of two-wheeled travel.
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The new “innovation era”
In 2018, Piaggio introduced the New Vespa Elettronica, combining historic design with futuristic innovations and continuing to lead in the research of renewable energies. Piaggio’s story is imbued with an unceasing spirit of innovation and a deep connection to Italian identity. Each chapter reflects a commitment to style, innovation and ambition, making Piaggio a symbol of mobility and progress on a global level.
Today, this anniversary not only celebrates Piaggio’s historic legacy but also offers ‘a new gem’ to a brand that continues to define style and innovation in the global scooter scene. Among the main symbols of Made in Italy and Italian engineering excellence, the Vespa 140th is destined to become a legend among enthusiasts
Sources: Repubblica I Ansa I Volpimotor.it
Author: Francesca Rosati
Credits cover picture: Davide Ragusa via Unsplash
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