Pisa: The production of Piaggio’s iconic Ape three-wheel vehicle has officially departed Italy after 76 years, shifting its manufacturing base to India. The Ape, known as the “Bee,” was a staple product of Piaggio in Pontedera, near Pisa, since its inception in 1948. However, the production had gradually been transitioning to India over recent years.
According to Ansa News Agency, the decision to relocate the production entirely to India is driven by the need to cater to the Indian and African markets, as well as to comply with the European Union’s more stringent rules on emissions and safety. These regulations have made it challenging to continue manufacturing the Ape in Europe. Consequently, the Pontedera plant is set to be repurposed for the production of the electric Porter lorry.
The Ape’s unique design, reflecting the essence of post-war Italy, was the brainchild of engineer Corradino D’Ascanio. This vehicle gained fame by providing much-needed mobility to Italian cities recovering from the devastatio
n of World War II. D’Ascanio, originally known for his work as a helicopter designer, is also credited with creating the Ape’s two-wheel counterpart, the Vespa, or “Wasp,” an idea that was brought to life by industrialist Enrico Piaggio.
