Here at Scooter Central we like to keep up with the latest technology to trickle down to scooters. In July 2022, Piaggio Group (think Vespa, Piaggio,Aprilia brands) announced a new model of the MP3 three wheel scooter range that is destined for Europe.
The MP3 530 is slated to be the most technologically advanced scooter on the market with a new Magneti Marelli 11MP fuel injection system that supports three riding modes – Eco, Comfort, Sport – which regulate engine performance, throttle sensitivity and the ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation, as in traction control).
Even more interesting is the Advanced Rider Assistance System (ARAS), which includes a rear-facing radar and a camera positioned right under the tail light. Developed in Boston by Piaggio Fast Forward, the kit is used to support the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) and Lane Change Decision Aid System (LCDAS).
According to Piaggio, the ARAS relies on Imaging Radar 4D technology to provide much broader area coverage than ultrasound sensors, scanning a radius up to 30-35 m (98-115 ft) behind the MP3 to warn the rider about potential dangers in their blind spots.
The BLIS system notifies the rider of the presence of vehicles in the rear view mirror blind spot using specific notices on the TFT screen in front of the rider. The clever LCDAS system also identifies and alerts the rider of vehicles which are approaching quickly.
As the scooter is hefty at 280kgs, there is a reverse gear to assist with parking. The rear camera is also a support feature in the case of reversing, as it automatically displays its image on the TFT screen in front of the rider when the scooter goes into reverse gear.
At 13,000 Euro plus on road costs, the MP3 530 is a pricey bit of kit so I’m doubtful we’ll see it here in Aus (AUS $20,000+), but you never know.
The main takeaway from this latest edition to the scooter world is that that some pretty trick technology has filtered down to scooters and we’ll no doubt see it on more models soon enough (I’m thinking Beverley 400ie maybe).
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