Iconic scooter Lambretta set to make comeback in electric avatar
What's the story
Lambretta, the popular scooter of the late 80s, is set to make a comeback in the Indian market. Scooters India Limited, the company which held rights to the iconic brand, has announced it will bring an electric avatar of the popular scooter. The revamped vehicle, when ready, will be taking on Vespa's modernized electric scooters. Here are the details.
History
Lambretta loved for its iconic Italian design
Lambretta was designed by Italian brand Innocenti in the 1940s, but after few decades, Scooters India Limited purchased manufacturing and trademark rights from them. The company, backed by the Indian government, started its own plant and offered the iconic vehicle as Vijay Super in the domestic market. However, owing to declining sales, the production of these scooters was completely ceased by 1997.
Relaunch
Now, SIL plans to revive Lambrettas
Now, after more than two decades, Scooters India Limited, which still holds assembly rights for Lambretta, has confirmed plans to re-launch the scooter. In a recent meeting, the board of directors of the company decided they need to diversify their product offerings with the introduction of electric vehicles. This would include multiple three and four-wheelers and an electric version of Lambretta.
Quote
SIL is in talks to develop the electric Lambretta
To venture into the EV-segment, "SIL is in discussion with BHEL, NTPC, EVI Technologies, Murata Technologies, Japan Sun Mobility and Xngri, USA for technology/logistics partnership," the company said in a regulatory filing.
Launch timeline
However, there's no launch date
SIL's decision has raised hopes for Lambretta lovers but it is important to note that the company has not revealed when the electric scooter might launch. Notably, apart from electric Lambretta, SIL also plans to develop an electric version of its popular three-wheeler 'Vikram' and an electric four-wheeler in passenger and goods carrier segments with different load capacities.