1956 Piaggio Ape 'AC1' 150cc 3-Wheeler

Description

Developed as a more practical alternative to the traditional Piaggio-owned Vespa scooters, but without the cost restrictions of a full car, the three-wheeled 'Ape' (pronounced 'ah-peh' and Italian for bee) was introduced in its Italian national market in 1948. Basically a standard scooter from the seat forward, its two rear-wheels were chain driven and it utilised a specially designed rear suspension system. The Ape was designed to be flexible in its functions and could therefore be bodied in a variety of configurations, including a flat bed, a pickup, and a van. Predictably, it was great news for small businesses that required a light load carrier to zip through narrow Italian streets. The Ape C was introduced in 1956, retaining the 150cc 2-stroke engine of the B but gaining a closed cab section to protect the driver from the elements. Incredibly, the Ape is still in production today, though made in India and running a larger Diesel engine- a tribute to the merits of the original design.