Vespa 1945 MP6 Prototype : Design by D'Ascanio

So, why’s a Vespa called a Vespa? D’Ascanio was given the task of designing an extremely simple and cheap to run two wheeler. D’Ascanio put the engine on the rear wheel, unlike in motorcycles. In September 1945, when Enrico Piaggio saw the first MP6 prototype he exclaimed “Sembra una vespa!” which translated means “It resembles a wasp!” and that is how the name Vespa came about.

Vespa 946 Quarantasei at the 2011 EICMA, Milan

Vespa 946 Quarantasei 2011 EICMA Vespa 946 Quarantasei at the 2011 EICMA, Milan

At the 2011 EICMA Motor Show in Milan, Piaggio presented its tribute to the original MP6 prototype. The Vespa Quarantasei as it was presented initially ( 46 in Italian) is a design that is more ‘waspy’ than any other Vespa. The Quarantasei was then renamed as the 946 thanks to auto journalists who consider it a chore to twist their tongue even slightly.

By distilling the essence of a scooter that changed the style of individual mobility forever and enhancing the lines that secured its success, the Pontedera Style Centre has projected the Vespa into a possible future where references and projections, tradition and innovation, merge seamlessly says Vespa.

Here’s the scoop. In conversation with the management at Piaggio during the Vespa launch in India, we were informed that the 946 had an aluminium body and would be powered by a new 125 cc engine with lower emissions, less noise and higher fuel efficiency.

Vespa 946 Quarantasei 2011 EICMA

Stunning eh? The entire scooter is void of any excess, cables at all. The entire shape is as clean and streamlined as a scooter can be. The blinkers/indicators are on the bar ends, in the shape of an aerofoil!

Vespa 946 Quarantasei at the 2011 EICMA, MilanVespa 946 Quarantasei 2011 EICMA

Vespa 946 Quarantasei 2011 EICMA

I wonder if anybody would disagree that this is definitely the most beautifully sculpted seat in the world.

Vespa 946 Quarantasei 2011 EICMA

That, would be the tail lamp.

Vespa 946 Quarantasei 2011 EICMA

Vespa 946 Quarantasei 2011 EICMA

Vespa 946 Quarantasei 2011 Eicma 11