Ride On! Hit the Road with Hybrid Scooters

As hybrid vehicles become more popular and more affordable, more manufacturers are jumping in on the alternative energy bandwagon.

Besides saving a few bucks at the pump, hybrid vehicles help reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and reduce harmful emissions. From vehicles to scooters, hybrids are now available in a variety of shapes, sizes and price points.

While much of the hybrid focus has been geared towards automobiles, more and more hybrid scooters are hitting the road as well.  Here are some examples:

Piaggio MP3 Hybrid Scooter:

One thing’s for sure – this ain’t your mama’s scooter! Touted as the “world’s first hybrid scooter,” Italian manufacturer Piaggio has designed the revolutionary three-wheel scooter, the Piaggio MP3. Currently available in three different models, this plug-in hybrid scooter combines a zero-emissions electric motor and internal combustion engine. Just plug the battery into a standard electric outlet to charge!

A full charge takes about three hours, enabling the bike to run up to 40 miles. The battery pack is hidden under the saddle. The quiet scooter can run on electric power alone. And even on the go, the driver can easily switch between hybrid and full electric mode. For added safety and stability, the scooter has two wheels on the front. And the scooter, with its futuristic good looks, packs a powerful punch when it comes to speed – up to 89 mph. Depending on the version, prices range from about $7,000 to under $9,000.

Miletto:

A new zero-emission hybrid scooter is getting ready to hit the roads. The Japanese scooter can be powered by human pedal power or an electric motor. PROSTAFF Co. LTD developed the eco-friendly bike. On a flat road, the Miletto can run about 22 miles on a single charge, which takes between two and four hours to charge. Available in 12 different colors, the hybrid scooter is expected to cost around $1,730. Touted as being 10 times as economical as a traditional scooter, the Miletto is expected to roll out sometime next year.

ELV Motors:

California-based ELV Motors offers a selection of electric bikes, scooters and motorcycles including the VM3000H Hybrid Motorcycle. Using electricity, this show-stopper reaches top speeds of up to 30 mph and up to 45 mph using gas. The VM3000 has a 3000w electric motor and 149cc gas engine. You’ll get up to 40 miles on a full charge, which requires about 6 to 8 hours. At 130 mpg, this ride retails for under $4,000. Currently, free shipping is being offered and $20 from each scooter sale is donated to the Prince’s Rainforests Project.
 

Ride on!