ABS & CBS models of Aprilia & Vespa scooters to launch in India by December

The Aprilia and Vespa scooters range in India will be updated with ABS and CBS models by the end of this year, Piaggio India has confirmed to IAB.

On the sidelines of the launch of the 2018 Aprilia SR150 & Vespa scooter range, when asked about the introduction of ABS & CBS models, Mr Diego Graffi, CEO and Managing Director - Piaggio India, said, -

We are planning to introduce ABS & CBS models here by the end of this year for the whole range to meet the homologation requirements before (April) 2019. We already have prototypes ready for all the models, while the production models will be launched before the end of 2018.

When probed further, Mr Graffi said, "We will introduce a single-channel ABS unit, not because of cost constraints, but for the need and requirements of the scooters and I think a mono-channel system is best suited for our two-wheelers."

The new safety norms come into effect from 1 April 2019, which mandates every two-wheeler maker to introduce ABS (anti-lock braking system) as standard on bikes & scooters above 125 cc, while those below it will get CBS (combined braking system) as part of the factory equipment.

The Aprilia and Vespa range of two-wheelers are available with two engine options - 124.49 cc & 154.8 cc -, mated to a CVT.

In essence, the Aprilia SR 150 and Vespa 150 range will receive single-channel ABS, while the 125 range from both the brands will get CBS tech.

Aprilia offers the SR 150, SR 150 Race, SR 150 Carbon and the SR 125 in India. On the other hand, the Vespa brand has the VXL150, SXL150, LX125, VX125 and the Vespa Notte in the domestic market.

Also Read: Aprilia RS 150 & Aprilia Tuono 150 not coming to India before 2020

The introduction of ABS will increase prices of the scooters by around INR 8,000-10,000, while CBS models are likely to receive a price hike of INR 3,000.