Aprilia Introduces New Pedelec 'Enjoy'

ROME, Italy (18 July 2000) -- On 6 July Italian scooter major Aprilia presented for the first time its new 'Enjoy' pedelec to a group of journalists in Rome. As Europe's second largest scooter manufacturer, Aprilia's decision to step into the pedelec and e-bike market could provide a much-needed impetus for a segment that has so far not lived up to expectations in Europe. At the presentation Aprilia made clear that it plans to exploit the market potential for e-bikes and pedelecs in the short term via both its wide motorbike distribution network and, somewhat surprisingly, the internet. Aprilia introduced two versions: Race and City, both of which feature new Nickel-Metal-Hydride (NiMHd) batteries (13Ah/24V, with 500 recharging cycles) supplied by Saft and powerful motors supplied by Merida. Aprilia is in fact the first manufacturer to include a large capacity NiMHd battery as a standard feature. The recharging time is just 3.5 hours, and the battery is removable. This September the models will be available in Italy, Germany and the Netherlands. They will be distributed European-wide at the beginning of 2001. The August issue of Bike Europe will include a complete report on Aprilia's 'Enjoy' and an interview with Aprilia president Ivano Beggio about the company's future plans in the pedelec market. (EL/GE)