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    Aprilia eSR1 Electric Scooter Name Registered – Launch Expected In 2021

    Image for reference
    E-scooter offering from Aprilia is expected to share its technologies and mechanicals with Vespa Elletrica

    Piaggio has filed a trademark for its upcoming electric scooter from its Aprilia brand. The Italian two-wheeler manufacturer has registered the trademark ‘eSR1’ at European Union Intellectual Property Office. The latter published a trademark application showing the ‘eSR1’ name in stylised font and logo.
    However, the applicant’s name hasn’t been revealed yet although it is indicated to be the Piaggio Group. The evidence being the ‘SR’ portion of trademark which resembles the SR logo in Aprilia brand of scooters.
    Furthermore, the eSR logo looks straight out of the books for the logo of SR-GP Replica which was revealed last year. The other major hint given is that the trademark has been registered on Piaggio’s behalf by Jacobacci & Partners S.P.A, the firm which handles all intellectual property matters for the Italian brand. Aprilia currently retails the SR range of scooters in 50cc, 125cc, 150cc and 160cc configurations around the world.
    Aprilia’s e-Scooter plans
    It is also being speculated that Aprilia eSR1 will share its powertrain and technology with other Piaggio group of products, specifically Vespa Elettrica which is already on sale in many international markets. Since it is a common practice by Aprilia to share technologies among its sibling brands this shouldn’t come as a surprise. This means Elettrica’s electric motor and batteries could be repackaged for Aprilia eSR1.
    Vespa Electric Scooter At 2020 Auto Expo
    Trademark filings don’t guarantee a production-spec model launch as they don’t reveal if or when a specific model will arrive at markets. In this case, however, chances are pretty high since electric scooters have been in trend and a global brand like Aprilia will surely garner a lot of attention which is likely to translate into a high consumer base.
    If eSR1 borrows its powertrain and technology from Vespa, much of its development would already be complete even though the e-scooter hasn’t yet been revealed in flesh. This means that launch of the new Aprilia scooter could be as early as next year for European markets.
    Vespa Elettrica details
    Speaking of specifications, Vespa Elettrica draws its power from a 4kW electric motor paired with a lithium-ion battery pack. Peak torque available at wheels stands at an impressive 200 Nm and provides a range of 100 km in Eco mode and 70 km in Power mode in a single charge. It takes 3.5 hours for the battery to get juiced up using a 220V socket.
    Its underpinnings are similar to its petrol-powered counterpart assisted by a trailing link front suspension and single shock absorber at rear. It rolls on 12-inch front and 11-inch rear alloy wheels. The model was showcased at this year’s AutoExpo but there are no signs of its launch in India anytime soon.
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    Aprilia RS 660, Tuono 660 India Launch Confirmed For 2021

    2021 Aprilia RS 660
    The Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660 come loaded with state-of-the-art electronic systems

    The Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660 middle-weight sports bikes which were unveiled at the EICMA 2019 in Milan, Italy, are set to be launched in India next year. Touted to be very important products for the Italian marque’s long-term future, the motorcycles find themselves in a comfortable niche above the entry level 250 – 400 cc trainers and the liter class missiles.
    Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660
    The Aprilia RS 660 and its naked sibling not only derive their design and livery inspiration from the RSV4 and Tuono V4 respectively but also borrow the engine from the legendary superbike twins. The 659 cc V-Twin is essentially the first half of the flagship’s V4 unit and that speaks volume about the new motorcycles’ pedigree.
    The new heart has a power output of 100 hp and makes 67 Nm of torque. This should make for an impressive performance on board a motorcycle that tips the scales at 164.2 kg. The rider has access to five different engine mappings including two dedicated to track riding – Commute, Dynamic, Individual, Challenge and Time Attack.
    Electronics and chassis
    The boffins at Aprilia didn’t take any chances with their latest creations as they get standard quick shifter and 6-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU) which supports a whole host of advanced electronic systems like cornering traction control, cornering ABS, wheelie control, rear lift mitigation, engine brake control, etc.
    2021 Aprilia Tuono 660
    The razor sharp Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660 are underpinned by a twin-spar aluminium chassis which employs the motor as a stressed member. The chunky aluminium swing arm and stubby triangular exhaust canister go well with the rest of the design.
    The front end is suspended by Kayaba inverted telescopic forks measuring 41 mm in dia while the rear employs a monoshock. Both are adjustable for preload and rebound damping. Not surprisingly, Brembo takes care of braking needs with 320 mm twin-discs at the front with 4-piston calipers and a 220 mm single disc at the rear with 2-piston calipers.
    Styling
    The Aprilia RS 660 features an unmistakable identity but is full of modern touches such as LED DRLs, sleeker three-part headlamp unit, aerodynamic inlets on the fairing, a sculpted fuel tank and a sporty tailpiece with stepped seats. The motorcycle looks compact yet with serious intention. The Tuono 660 also gets the same headlamp unit but the fairing is minimal.
    The Aprilia 660 twins, with their premium features and impressive performance credentials, are looking to become the best offerings in the mid-size superbike segment which is currently populated by the likes of Yamaha YZF-R6, Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R, etc. More

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    Aprilia SXR 160 Scooter Bookings Open 11 Dec – Deliveries Start Soon After

    Aprilia SXR 160 Scooter
    The Aprilia SXR 160 Maxi Scooter could be priced from around Rs.1.30 lakhs

    The Aprilia SXR 160 maxi scooter has been detailed prior to launch later this month. It will be opened for bookings at the end of this week – on 11th Dec.
    Bookings will open online, as well as at their dealer across India. The new scooter has entered production at the company plant in Baramati earlier this month.
    Aprilia SXR 160 is designed in Italy specifically for the Indian market. It is a maxi scooter as was seen when on display at the 2020 Auto Expo in February. Launch was initially set for earlier this year but the COVID-19 pandemic caused some delay.
    Aprilia SXR 160 Design
    Where design is concerned, the maxi scooter boasts of ample luggage and leg space. The rider gets an upright riding stature for better comfort. It receives a large seat, LED headlamps inspired by the RS660 and an angular front apron. Design elements to the rear include an LED tail lamp with integrated rear blinkers.

    The Aprilia SXR 160 gets a fully digital LCD instrument cluster with feather touch switches, a USB charging port and smartphone connectivity. Styling elements also include raised handlebars, 12 inch alloy wheels and illuminated under-seat storage. It will get ABS among its safety features while Piaggio has announced that the maxi scooter will boast of excellent handling and efficient stability even at higher speed.
    Most Powerful Scooter in Segment
    Piaggio Aprilia SXR 160 is slated to be the most powerful scooter in its segment. It will get its power via a 160cc, 3 valve, single cylinder, fuel injected engine which also powers the SR160. No power or torque figures have been revealed as on date but are expected to be in the region of 10.7 hp and 11.6 Nm. The engine gets mated to a CVT unit.
    Braking and suspension will be via ventilated disc brakes with twin pot calipers and telescopic fork in the front and adjustable shock absorbers at the rear. Once launched, the Aprilia SXR 160 will compete against its very own siblings Aprilia SR 160 and 150 cc Vespa scooters while it will also go up against the Suzuki Burgman Street 125.
    As per dealer sources, the SXR 160 will be launched at the end of December with deliveries to commence from first week of January 2021. Apart from the Aprilia SXR 160, the company is also planning launch of the Aprilia SXR 125 maxi-scooter in India based on SR 125 which will follow launch of the SXR 160. More

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    Aprilia SXR 160 Officially Teased – Production Starts Next Month

    2021 Aprilia SXR 160
    Piaggio India ready to begin Aprilia SXR 160 production at Baramiati plant

    Piaggio India is set to start Aprilia SXR 160 production at its Baramati plant. Aprilia SXR 160 was showcased earlier this year at Auto Expo 2020, Greater Noida. The premium scooter brings together style, performance and a comfy riding experience.
    SXR 160 relies on its next-gen global design appeal and tech advanced features for a premium experience. Its unique placement will create a new premium scooter market category. Power comes from a BSVI 160 CC engine with three-valve Fuel Injection (FI) clean emission engine tech.

    On the exterior is a 3 coat HD body paint finish, Aprilia signature graphics, matt black design trims, and dark chrome elements. Design elements draw from sharp body lines, and geometric contours. The light element is built on wrap around LED tech twin crystal headlights and eye line position lights that merge front indicator blinkers. Diamond reflection wrap around LED taillights with integrated rear blinkers fits right in with its modern appeal.
    Designed To Improve Ride Experience
    An ergonomically well-positioned raised steering handlebar with feather touch switches enables ease of operation. Seating position enables rider’s feet to touch the ground to start, slow down or wait at a signal. Dual telescope front suspension and adjustable rear suspension are tuned for daily commute. This can be altered through rear suspension adjustment if on a different road surface, they can do so by adjusting the rear suspension.

    Ride experience and comfort gains from bigger, longer, comfy and ergonomic seats in art leather suede feel finished in special stitch pattern in grey and red threads. The 210 cm sq. multifunctional all digital cluster lets riders view multiple features.
    Mobile connectivity accessory connects one’s phone to the scooter to help locate it, and to raise a security alarm, or immobilize it as necessary. Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with ventilated disk brakes and twin pots calliper hydraulic brakes offer grand braking performance.
    Piaggio India dealership network
    The company is keen on quick dealer network expansion to cater to customers better for its new scheduled launches. Piaggio India works out of over 250 dealerships, and this number is to be increased for over 400+ dealerships. To ensure this, the company welcomes premium mindset entrepreneurs to the company’s dealership business model to take it to new towns and cities.
    Diego Graffi, Chairman and Managing Director, Piaggio India said, “We are extremely excited to soon introduce the highly anticipated and a unique, premium proposition for our discerning customers. As promised at the Auto Expo 2020, we are gearing up for the production of Aprilia SXR 160 in India and unfolding a new chapter for the scooter industry. With its highly innovative design, the SXR 160 is set to create a new unmatched experience of premium style, high comfort and best in class performance.” More

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    Aprilia SXR160 Scooter Launch Next Month – Exp Price Rs 1.25 Lakh

    Aprilia SXR160
    Aprilia SXR160 will be the first proper maxi-scooter in India which will be followed by the Forza range from Honda next year

    Piaggio-owned Aprilia will be launching its much anticipated SXR 160 maxi-style scooter next month. As per reports, the power scooter will hit showrooms somewhere around the first or second week of December and is expected to be pegged at Rs 1.25 lakh (ex-showroom, India).
    Certain dealers have started accepting bookings for SXR160 at a token amount of Rs 5,000. The maxi-scooter was first showcased at the AutoExpo 2020 held earlier this year. This scooter is the effort of Piaggio to offer an accessible maxi-scooter which has been absent until now.
    It will be by far the largest scooter both in terms of size and engine displacement to go on sale in India surpassing SXL 150 and VXL 150 from Aprilia’s sister brand Vespa. It will continue to hold this honour until Honda introduces the new Forza 350 in the country sometime next year.
    Mechanical Details
    In terms of powertrain, it receives the same 160cc single-cylinder motor from SR 160 that pushes out 11 PS of power and 11.2 Nm of peak torque. This unit will be mated to a CVT gearbox.
    Aprilia SXR 160
    Suspension duties will be handled by a telescopic fork and a mono-shock unit at rear. Unlike SR160 which rides on 14-inch wheels, this one rides on 12-inch alloy wheels while anchoring duties on both units are carried out by disc brake at both ends assisted by single-channel ABS.
    Design & Features
    The low wheel size should also mean that underneath storage space will be sizeable. There’s additional storage in the form of an apron mounted compartment. In terms of features, it gets a fully digital instrument cluster, an optional smartphone connectivity tech, a USB charging port and more. The scooter features a sharp design language which consists of a LED headlight, LED DRLs, LED taillights, a tall windscreen, a stretched-out floorboard and a slightly stepped-up seat
    The new Aprilia 160 will be offered in four colour options which includes blue, red, black and white. In all probability, it will be made available in one valiant only.
    This will be the first maxi-scooter which will be offered in India. Upon its launch, it will not have any direct rivals in the market but will compete against the likes of Suzuki Burgman Street, TVS Ntorq and its Vespa cousins- SXL and VXL. Following this, Aprilia is also expected to launch SXR125 at a later stage.
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  • New Aprilia SXR 160 Scooter Teased – Launch Next Month ?

    Piaggio had showcased the Aprilia SXR 160 maxi-scooter back in February this year during the AutoExpo
    Piaggio India, Aprilia’s parent company, has shared a teaser image of the upcoming SXR 160 on its social media platform. Earlier, the company’s Chairman and MD, Diego Graffi, during the launch of the Vespa Racing Sixties had stated that the much anticipated Aprilia SXR 160 is slated to launch later in November this year.

    However, with the teaser shared, there might be a good chance that it be launched sooner than later – hopefully next month, in Oct 2020. The SXR 160 made its maiden appearance at the AutoExpo 2020 and created a lot of buzzes at that time. The scooter should have been launched much earlier but makers had to defer their plans due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
    Design & Features
    Coming to the teaser, it shows the front end of the scooter which is very clear yet one can comprehend the overall design of it. The teaser distinctly shows that there are two separate units of headlights with C-shaped DRLs integrated onto them that make the scooter more stylish. Although the concept of DRL is seen more in cars and bikes, in this case, one will get to see a DRL with twin headlight setup in a scooter.
    Aprilia SXR160 Teased
    Talking about other elements associated with designing the Aprilia SXR 160, it gets a windscreen that is clearly visible on the teaser. From what we saw at the AutoExpo, it sports a noteworthy design with the LED lighting setup in the front apron. The scooter comes with a flat oversized seat, a black flyscreen, a flat footboard and a wide handlebar. The 12-inch alloy wheels surely enhance the sportiness.
    When it comes to features it is equipped with a fully digital instrument console that offers essential readouts like speed, odometer trip meter, ABS status fuel-efficiency, etc. it is also expected to offer Bluetooth connectivity. The scooter will also have a USB port inside its illuminated under-seat storage.
    Mechanical Details
    The SXR 160 will draw its power from the same 160.03cc, three-valve, single-cylinder engine which is borrowed from its sibling- SR 160. This unit cranks out 11 bhp of power at 7,600rpm and 12 Nm at 6000rpm of peak torque. It will come married to a CVT gearbox. Suspension duties on the scooter are expected to be taken care of by telescopic forks at front and a mono-shock unit at rear.
    Aprilia SXR 160
    Possible SXR 125
    For the uninitiated, the SXR 160 is a maxi-scooter which is rather an unexplored segment of scooters in India. Currently, Suzuki Burgman 125 is the only maxi-scooter offered in the Indian market. Piaggio India also intends to launch a smaller version of SXR 160- the SXR 125 as stated during the AutoExpo this year.
    SXR125 will be powered by a 125cc engine which will be borrowed from the Vespa 125cc scooters. One can expect the smaller SXR to arrive sometime late next year. As far as pricing is concerned, we can expect Piaggio to offer it at a price between Rs 1.15-1.25 lakh (ex-showroom). More

  • Vespa, Aprilia Launches Scooter Leasing in Pune and Bangalore

    Leasing option will help customers the benefits of owning a Vespa or Aprilia scooter at lower initial cost
    While two-wheeler purchases aren’t particularly impacted by short term loans or other finance options, the finance market is fast turning into one with offers galore. For straight out purchases, finance options are now being curated to bring to the fore a more modern way of vehicle usage through leasing.

    Piaggio India 2 wheelers has introduced scooter leasing with OTO Capital through a range of leasing options for Vespa and Aprilia range of scooters in Pune and Bangalore. The leasing option makes available a Vespa or Aprilia scooter riding experience through a low down payment, and with 30 per cent discount on the EMI.
    Benefits from a special offer mean upto Rs 2,500 is completely waived off on the first month’s subscription fee. It goes without saying, customers have the option to upgrade or own the scooter at the end of lease tenure.
    BS6 Aprilia Storm
    Leasing Benefits
    Customers can engage in a convenient and paperless leasing process across Vespa and Aprilia dealerships through the OTO app. The leasing model of vehicle usage means customers pay only for the number of years they want to keep the vehicle, and have a wide flexibility to return it anytime.
    This means you pay for the period of lease and gain more. Leasing option is designed to highlight the convenience of an upgrade in the same EMI budget. Corporates that are associated with OTO Capital can enjoy Vespa and Aprilia scooter lease plans and take advantage of flexible ownership plans, with benefits from additional tax savings.
    Diego Graffi, Chairman and MD, Piaggio India said, “We welcome the partnership with OTO Capital to facilitate this new model of ownership.” Vespa and Aprilia premium range can now be enjoyed by a new group of customers who can benefit from a corporate association with OTO, meaning employees can avail of a lease and experience an interesting ownership option for a shorter or as deemed appropriate duration.
    New Launch
    Vespa Racing Sixties is the brand’s most recent launch, apart from the facelift BS6 range. It is priced from Rs 1.2 lakhs, ex-sh.
    Traditionally, purchasing a vehicle has moved from being an important family decision to one governed by more diverse needs. With time, the infrastructure for leasing options is being strengthened, and mindset change is beginning to peep through. The option of leasing comes without the commitment of thinking of the vehicle as a longterm investment and thinking in advance of what one should do with the vehicle once usage cycle has been reached. Leasing would mean customers can easily flip their vehicle at a much faster pace, or keep it if they so desire once the lease period concludes. More

  • Aprilia sub 400 cc motorcycle launch planned – KTM 390, BMW G310 rival

    Earlier, Aprilia had showcased the RS150 and Tuono 150 at AutoExpo 2018
    In the latest development, Italian bike manufacturer Aprilia has confirmed that it will be entering the 300-400cc motorcycle segment in India. In all probability, these new bikes will be the sub-400cc iterations of Aprilia RS and Tuono models and will be specifically designed for Indian consumers.

    On the occasion of launch of the special edition Vespa Racing Sixties scooters, Piaggio India chief Diego Graffi confirmed the above development. He admitted that the company is evaluating entry-level products in the 300-400cc space. He further added that these bikes are still in a planning phase of development and would take at least two to three years to reach the market.
    These bikes will be all new products and will be based on a newly built platform. The motorcycles will be manufactured locally in India whereas it is expected to be engineered and designed in Italy with inputs from Aprilia India. We expect that the bikes will carry an identical powertrain with one being a naked street racer while the other being a fully faired sports bike.
    Aprilia 150cc motorcycles at Auto Expo 2018
    At AutoExpo 2018, Aprilia showcased their concepts of 150cc version of RS and its naked counterpart Tuono. The bike maker was pondering over the idea of bringing lightweight entry-level motorcycles to India. However, Graffi has confirmed that this plan has been shelved, as it is too late to introduce new bikes in 125-150cc space.
    The brand was planning to achieve more accessibility to Indian masses like the SR150 in its initial phase. However, the company realised that it doesn’t make much sense to build a low-cubic displacement high-spec bike. It found more scope in developing platform middleweight bikes. Some might also believe that it might develop a scaled-down version of the RS660.
    Aprilia GPR250
    In the sub-300cc segment, Aprilia has the GPR250 in China which was earlier spotted in India. It was supposed to be launched here in India. However, now it seems that the company has had a change of heart and decided against it. One of the primary reasons for this, could be its ordinary performance even though it is very well equipped with features.
    Expected Powertrain and Price
    Coming back to the upcoming made in India bikes, Piaggio hasn’t divulged any details as of yet. If we were to make a guess, the bikes will be powered by an all-new 350-400cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled powertrain which will keep the cost in check. This unit is expected to be mated to a six-speed gearbox. As far as design is concerned, one can expect Aprilia to borrow some cues from their larger fully-faired and naked siblings- RSV4 1100 and Tuono V4 respectively.
    When launched in India, it will take on the likes of KTM 390 Duke and RC, Apache RR310, BMW G 310 duo. One can expect the prices to be northwards of Rs 3 lakhs. Aprilia also intends to make India the export hub for other South Asian and European markets through these products. More