At the end of last week, the Spyder team drove the scenic route to Milan. They were delivering motorcycles on behalf of Royal Enfield to the largest trade show of the year – EICMA 2023.
For those in the know, this is the most important show in the calendar for the two-wheeled sector. However, for those who are not, this is where most manufacturers will launch their latest range. Potentially, it will lay out what to expect from this sector for the next 12 months.
EICMA, short for International Motorcycle and Accessories Exhibition, launched in 1914 and is an annual event held in Milan, Italy.
One thing that makes it so unique is that it’s pitched to both businesses and consumers. This is rare for a show of this scale.
The 80th edition opened to the public from Thursday 9th November and will run until Sunday 12th November.
Whilst our team spent a brief amount of time in Milan, they had time to take in all the latest models and innovation in the scooter community – whether it be 50cc, 125cc or electric.
So, what exciting models have been unveiled at EICMA 2023?
Lambretta Elettra
Our first talking point of the day is the Lambretta Elettra e-scooter.
This Italian scooter manufacturer has unveiled an electric scooter concept, with the classic look we expect from Lambretta. However, unlike other models the Elettra e-scooter is sleeker and has a more innovative edge to it.
Built on a steel frame, it is powered by an 11kw electric motor and 4.6KwH battery pack. The Elettra e-scooter can reach up to 68 mph when riding out in the open road.
It rides on 12” wheels and has 3 modes – eco, ride and sport.
Having said all that, it is still just a concept at this stage. Lambretta have made no indication when this model is likely to go into production.
Vespa Gets an Update
This iconic scooter has been around since it launch in 1946. The Italian manufacturer takes pride in its roots and DNA, rarely straying far from the original design.
Instead, they prefer to update the technology or make subtle improvements in design, patterns, or colours.
The unveiling at EICMA 2023 follows suit as Vespa continue to focus on improving their current models Primavera and Sprint S:
Introducing a keyless ignition and TFT Display with Bluetooth connectivity.
New, funky colourways have been introduced as well as an update on the Vespa logo.
For some hardened Vespa fans this has been a disappointing unveiling, and they are hoping for more in 2024. Only time will tell!
Hero MotoCorp reveal plans to enter the UK
Hero MotoCorp, is a popular manufacturer in India. They recently revealed plans to enter the European and UK market next year promising both a quality and affordable two-wheeled range.
For customers who are going for a sportier look, the Xoom 125r could tick those boxes. This is a scooter designed for the modern rider with a focus on comfort, technology and being price friendly.
Currently, there is no information on UK price points for this model. It has been suggested that Hero MotoCorp is likely to partner up with distributors, perhaps to test the waters of the UK market first before investing in UK based distribution and manufacturer dealerships.
They also unveiled their first electric scooter, the VIDA V1 Pro. This is a very futuristic-looking ride that has already set a Guiness World record for the greatest distance travelled in a 24-hour period – 1780km!
Let’s see what the future holds for this manufacturer in the UK.
Vmoto Soco World Premier Reveal
It was an exciting day for Vmoto on Wednesday 8th November, where they unveiled for the first time the CPx Explorer – a 100% electric scooter.
It has evolved from the CPx Pro, in particular it has had a full redesign of the front with a wraparound LED light instead of 2 single head lamps.
We reckon this will become a signature look for the Vmoto electric scooter series.
As EICMA closes on Sunday for another year, it’s been interesting to see what the press are thinking, as well as hearing a variety of opinions on what’s been released. Ultimately though, it’s the customers that count.
The UK market differs from Italy and mainland Europe in that there is less of a scooter culture within the general public. However, according to figures released on 7th November by MCIA, the two-wheeled sector is growing due to an increase in electric-powered vehicles. The future does look bright…and green.
If Milan is a bit too far to travel and you want to attend a show a bit closer to home, Motorcycle Live is a fantastic event to attend.
It takes place at the NEC, Birmingham from the 18th to 26th November and is the largest UK Motorcycle show.
Find out more about Motorcycle Live here
Wheels to Work
For further details, please call 01327 857213 or email info@wheelstowork.net.
Wheels to Work provide 50cc and 125cc scooters in Northants, Bucks, Beds, Berks, Warks, Leics, Shrops, Notts, North Lincs and Oxon to support our customers get to and from their place of work.