Motor #2 on output shaft

But this is a pretty big story, and courtesy of Doug, it's also hot off the presses. Start by imagining 140 miles per gallon.

Here's how: Piaggio says it's ready to add an electric hybrid option to its lineup next year, and plans to display some of the new vehicles at the upcoming Milan Bike Show, November 5-11.

According to a story posted at Motorcycle USA.com , Piaggio's "HyS" hybrid motor is being prepared for sale on three scooter designs - the Vespa LX, the Piaggio X8 and the three-wheeled MP3.

As with some automotive hybrids like Toyota's Prius, Vespa's version combines two motors in one - the usual gas-powered powerplant, with an electric motor acting as a supplemental power source.

Also like a hybrid car, the scoots engage electric power mainly when quick acceleration is needed, like moving from a dead stop or in low-speed traffic situations. Piaggio claims the added electric power adds "about 85% extra performance" when coupled with the gas engine.

Of course, there's a battery or two involved, and these are recharged while riding under regular gas-engine power. They also juice up a bit during braking and deceleration. What's more, the throttle and hybrid system is supposedly a "drive-by-wire system" - no throttle cables here. With computers more fully in control of things, fuel economy rises - up to 141 mpg, says Piaggio.

That's not to say you can't run things as you wish; a manual switch will be included to allow the rider to choose between three hybrid modes and an all-electric option which is good for about 12 miles. Not the greatest range, but for short commutes, you could go zero-gas and battery-only! Everything's rechargeable from a 220V outlet.

What's it gonna cost? Will Piaggio really have them on the market next year? Where do the batteries go? 1) Nobody knows, but we'd figure another 40% or so over regular prices, 2) Maybe - we never thought the MP3 would make the market, so Piaggio can follow through now and again, 3) Say goodbye to that under-seat storage, baby.

Regular Vespas not green enough for you? Stay tuned.

Motorcycle USA Story (Weblink)