Beatrice Lang
Electric scooters are becoming increasingly popular, with many cities introducing Low Emission Zones. Vespa owners are converting their scooters to run on electricity, giving their classic scooters a new lease of life. Conversion kits are available for all major Vespa types, with small and large frame versions, as well as a wide mount kit for older models. The conversion process involves stripping out the original mechanics and electrics and fitting the new components. Electric scooters have low maintenance as there are no moving engine parts, and they are also exempt from road tax and emissions charges.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Electric Vespa conversion kits | Available for small and large frame versions, as well as a wide mount kit suitable for older models from the 1950s. |
| Kit contents | DC brushless electric motor, sinusoidal motor controller, custom-made swing arm, under-seat battery tray, single removable LG lithium-ion battery, keyless ignition, battery gauge, cables, LED headlight. |
| Installation | Easy installation by novice mechanics using simple tools. |
| Battery | Removable, rechargeable, and can be charged using a standard household socket. |
| Range | 30 miles per battery, with some models capable of holding two batteries for a 60-mile range. |
| Top speed | 40 mph |
| Road legality | Road legal and exempt from UK road tax and emissions charges. |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance due to minimal moving parts. |
| Cost | Kit prices start at £3,450. |
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What You'll Learn
Electric Vespa conversion kits
There are several companies that offer electric conversion kits for Vespa scooters, such as Bello Moto and Retrospective Scooters. Bello Moto's conversion kit includes a DC brushless electric motor, a sinusoidal motor controller, a custom-made swing arm, an under-seat battery tray, and a single removable LG lithium-ion battery. The kit also includes a keyless ignition, battery gauge, cables, and an LED headlight. The price for the complete conversion, including labour, is $2,625.
Retrospective Scooters' Project:E conversion kit is designed for an easy installation by novice mechanics using simple tools. Their kits are bolt-in plug-and-play setups that can accommodate both 10" and 8" wheel sizes. Project:E scooters are road legal and exempt from UK road tax and emissions charges. They offer a variety of battery options, with a top speed of 65mph and a range of about 5 miles for 1 pence.
It is important to note that after converting your Vespa to electric, you will need to get it officially registered as an electric vehicle. This process may vary depending on your location, but it typically involves contacting the relevant government agency and providing information about the conversion.
Converting your Vespa to electric is a fun and rewarding project that can give your vintage scooter a new lease of life. With improved performance, reduced maintenance, and environmental benefits, it is a great way to modernise your Vespa.
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Battery options and charging
For example, the Vespa Primavera 125 model's battery is located in the middle side member of the footrest, and it requires a plastic cover to be removed to access it. When charging, the negative terminal should be disconnected first, followed by the positive terminal. Then, the charger, which should be a 300mA charger, can be connected, and the positive pole should be connected first, followed by the negative pole. On average, a complete charge takes about 12 hours.
Another example is the Vespa Elettrica, which has a non-removable battery. This means that charging must be done via a garage or charging station. In contrast, the Piaggio 1 model offers a removable battery that can be pulled out from under the seat and charged indoors.
Some companies, like Retrospective Scooters, offer a variety of battery options for their electric Vespas, with some models accommodating one or two battery packs. These batteries can be charged onboard or removed and charged indoors in a standard household socket.
It is important to note that battery care is crucial for electric scooters. Batteries should be used and charged regularly, rather than being left unused for extended periods. Old or defective batteries may need to be replaced, and proper disposal methods, such as hazardous waste facilities, should be followed.
Additionally, when considering battery options and charging for a Vespa conversion, it is worth noting that the battery specifications have evolved with technological advancements. Modern scooter batteries are often maintenance-free, sealed, and pre-charged, and they should read 14 volts on a multimeter.
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Registration as an electric vehicle
Registering a converted electric Vespa in the UK involves sending your existing vehicle registration and a cover letter explaining the EV conversion process and components to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). The DVLA will then ask for additional information and arrange for an inspector to visit your home to verify that your Vespa has been converted. The process is described as lengthy but free of charge.
Once registered, your Vespa will be exempt from UK road tax and emissions charges, including the ULEZ charge in London. This means that you will not have to pay the £21 annual road tax. Registering your Vespa as an EV will also make it easier to export your vehicle to Germany or any other EU country.
In the UK, registering an imported motorbike requires a speedometer that can display miles per hour (MPH). This may pose a problem for some vehicles, such as the NIU, which has a digital speedometer set to kilometres per hour (KPH).
In addition to registering your vehicle, it is important to ensure that your insurance is up to date in case of an accident or theft.
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Installation process
The installation process for converting a Vespa to electric power involves using a conversion kit. These kits are designed to be installed by novice mechanics using simple tools and typically involve a bolt-in plug-and-play setup. However, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional mechanic if you are not comfortable with the process.
The first step is to purchase the appropriate conversion kit for your Vespa model and year. Kits are available for small and large frame versions, as well as wide mount kits for older models from the 1950s. The kit typically includes a DC brushless electric motor, a motor controller, a custom-made swing arm, an under-seat battery tray, a removable lithium-ion battery, a battery gauge, cables, and more.
Once you have the kit, the next step is to strip out the original mechanics and electrics of the Vespa. This involves removing the engine and any associated components to make way for the new electric motor. It is important to note that you should keep the exterior styling of the Vespa unchanged, as per the conversion kit's design.
After removing the old components, you can begin installing the new electric motor and associated parts. This includes mounting the electric motor, connecting the motor controller, installing the battery tray and battery, and routing the necessary cables. Follow the instructions provided with your conversion kit for a detailed step-by-step guide on installing each component.
Finally, once the electric motor and associated parts are installed, you will need to test the Vespa to ensure it is functioning properly. This includes testing the throttle response, brakes, lights, and any other systems to ensure they are working as expected. Make any necessary adjustments and ensure the Vespa is safe to ride before taking it on the road.
It is important to note that converting your Vespa to electric power may require official registration and inspection to ensure it complies with local regulations. In some cases, you may need to contact your local vehicle licensing agency and provide information about the conversion process and components. They may also send an inspector to verify the conversion and take photos and notes for their records.
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$78
Cost of conversion
The cost of converting a Vespa to electric depends on several factors, including the type of Vespa being converted, the choice of electric motor and battery, and the complexity of the conversion process.
The electric conversion kits for Vespa scooters can range in price, with some starting at £3,450. These kits are designed to be easily installed by novice mechanics using simple tools, and they include all the necessary components such as the hub motor, control box, cables, throttle sensor, and battery tray. The kits are available for different Vespa models, including small and large frame versions, and even older models from the 1950s.
The cost of the conversion can also be affected by the choice of battery options. Converted vintage scooters can hold one or two battery packs, depending on the model and desired range. Additionally, the battery capacity and power can impact the overall cost, with more powerful batteries being generally more expensive.
It's important to consider the maintenance and running costs of an electric Vespa, which can be significantly lower than a traditional petrol-powered scooter. Electric scooters have fewer moving parts, resulting in reduced wear and tear and lower maintenance expenses over time. The absence of oil changes and expensive mechanical repairs further contributes to the long-term cost savings of an electric conversion.
Additionally, electric scooters are exempt from road tax and emissions charges in certain regions, making them a cost-effective option for urban commuting. The ability to recharge batteries from standard household sockets or onboard chargers also reduces the operational costs of an electric Vespa.
While the initial investment for the conversion may be significant, the potential savings in maintenance and running costs, as well as the environmental benefits, make it a compelling option for Vespa enthusiasts seeking to modernize their beloved classic scooters.
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Frequently asked questions
Electric scooters are eco-friendly, quiet, clean, powerful, and have powerful acceleration, practical range, quick recharging, and economic operation. They are also exempt from UK road tax and emissions charges.
You can purchase an electric conversion kit online. The conversion process involves stripping out the original mechanics and electrics and fitting the new components.
The kit includes a DC brushless electric motor, sinusoidal motor controller, custom-made swing arm, under-seat battery tray, a single removable LG lithium-ion battery, keyless ignition, battery gauge, cables, and LED headlights.
Prices for the kit start at £3,450.
Send your existing vehicle registration and a cover letter explaining the EV conversion process and components to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). They will arrange for an inspector to verify that your Vespa has been converted.
