*Piaggio introduced its CNG version of its cargo carrier ‘Ape CNG’ priced at Rs 1.40 lakh. Piaggio would also launch the passenger version soon of ‘Ape’ with a price tag of around Rs 1.30 lakh both ex-showroom in Ahmedabad.
* Piaggio to launch LPG version of three-wheeler eApe’ in Bangalore next month
* Piaggio which has already introduced its sub-one tonne truck ‘Ape Truk’ in Kerala and Tamil Nadu and will roll out throught the India by March 2008.
*Piaggio will also introduce ‘Ape Truk Plus’ which will cater to the upper end of the sub-one tonne segment.
* Piaggio also plans to create two new platforms beyond the sub-one tonne but less than two tonne by 2010.
*Piaggio is investing 60 million euros at its Baramati facility for a three-wheeler diesel engine facility, which will have a capacity of about 2 lakh units a year. The plant is expected to be operational by 2009. The facility will cater to the Indian market as well as the requirements of the Italian parent. Piaggio currently sources engines from Greaves Cotton Ltd and Lombardini for the Indian market.
Words from the manufacturer:
Referring to CNG driven three-wheeler, PVPL chairman and managing director Ravi Chopra said, “We at Piaggio are truly passionate about offering the Indian customer a new benchmark in eco-friendly transportation. The Piaggio Ape CNG-three-wheeler is a product of advanced research at Piaggio’s R&D centre in both Italy and India.”
About the possibility of the company making a re-entry into the two-wheeler segment, he said, “At present our plates are full and would like to concentrate on being the number one three-wheeler company.”
Piaggio said it did not have any plans to re-enter India’s two-wheeler market, after an earlier tie up with LML Ltd ended in 1999.
“There have been speculations that we are looking at an acquisition. We have not met anybody. We have not discussed with anybody. We have no plans,” Chopra said.