New Vespa "LX" scoots into US market

0 Comments | AFP, May, 2005

NEW YORK (AFP) — The diminuitive Vespa, the chic scooter typifying European elan, is aiming to zip into a market niche in the United States -- the land where the gas guzzling auto is king.

Italy's Piaggio on Tuesday debuted its new "LX" scooter brand, hoping to prise commuters and a new breed of affluent city dwellers from cars and taxis.

"Many Americans are discovering that scooters are a smart way to save time and money, particularly given climbing gas prices and increasing traffic congestion," said Paolo Timoni, CEO of Piaggio USA.

Riders can hit the road on a Vespa LX starting at a cool 3,199 dollars. The machine is available in eight colours, and in a 50cc and 150cc version. Top speed is advertised at a perilous 65 miles per hour (104 kilometres)....