Lambretta Vendetta Design Drawings by Kiska

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Love these design concept renderings for the new Lambretta Vendetta by Kiska, Europe’s largest independent design agency, who had the task of creating a modern version of the world’s finest motor scooter. They had a tough brief… they were told:

  • NOT to ‘go retro’… but instead find out the core Lambretta DNA and develop that.
  • Appeal to new generation of Lambrettisti
  • Less is more – but use simplicity in design to extend functionality
  • Use premium materials – more metal, less plastic*

Well, I think they’ve nailed that brief. Initial feedback from the launch of the Vendetta has been generally excellent. There have been grumblings from some of the ‘old school’, but even they have admitted ‘it wasn’t designed for them’.

There will always be a place for the classic Lambretta, and there are innovations today than ever to keep our magnificent machines on the road. But the Vendetta is a Lambretta for the 21st century, to take on the likes of the Vespa 946. I think it meets that niche admirably!

Now… back to the pics 🙂

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ME Electric Scooter

ME - profilo dxAfter yesterday’s electric Mogan three-wheeler, and with continuing dire warnings of an impending 2Stroke ban, I thought I’d continue the theme with this funky little electric scooter.

scooterelettrico1Electric scooters are now pretty commonplace, but most are blandly generic, cheap and Chinese. It’s innovation that sets the ME electric scooter apart. Designed by a group of Italian engineers – it’s back to basic aesthetics are reminiscent of the early open-frame Lambrettas. Rather like the FIDO I featured a on my previous blog, and the Dutch Q scooter that was at EICMA in 2013. Constructed out of Sheet Moulding Compound, a sturdy composite material that offers structural support, the ME is a cost-effective, lightweight alternative to its metal counterparts.

the-me-italian-electric-scooter-gessato-9The ME is fitted with a lithium-ion battery, with a range of 80 km, fine for a daily commute (especially if you can plug it in when you get to work!) Its electric motor takes the scooter from zero to 45 km/h in six seconds.

Support the project by visiting the ME electric scooter’s crowdfunding page.

With the promise of ” A New Lambretta” in May… and all we know is the model name “L70” could we expect an electric Lambretta? To be honest, I doubt it. I think we’ll get a reworking of the LN, with a four-stroke engine in 125, 150 and maybe 200cc’s. But I’m only guessing, I haven’t heard anything!

The amazing cardboard sculptures of Chris Gilmour

This post is reblogged from http://crocodilejock.wordpress.comZoom_17a

Well, after a couple of posts about wooden Vespa’s… I thought it was time for a cardboard Lambretta!

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It’s kind of hard to believe, but this beauty is made out of two things only. Cardboard and glue. And that’s it. No wooden frame. No hidden supporting metal structure. It’s one of the self imposed restrictions artist Chris Gilmour adheres to when creating his art. And it art, of the highest quality in my opinion. There’s something about taking cardboard, that humblest of materials, so often overlooked and discarded and creating something beautiful. Something that makes you look afresh at the original objects too. I don’t know if I’ve got Chris’s vision… but that’s my personal take. And it’s not just scooters and other vehicles (although they are my favourites) … Chris has created everything from wheelchairs to typewriters… microscopes to lifesize sculptures of Queen Victoria. Amazing stuff. Find out more on his website.
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Achtung, Messerschmitt!

Originally posted on my old design blog… great bubble car brochure!

Crocodile Jock

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I like a microcar. I think, given the price of petrol at the moment, and the need to be more eco concious, it’s a bit mad that most people still drive around, alone in a vehicle designed to carry four or more people.

I’ve posted about the Morgan Threewheeler  and the Bond Bug, as well as The Smite before, a modern re-imaginging of the Messersmitt KR200.
Well, here is a fantastic brochure I have found for the original Messerschmitt.

I think it’s in Spanish, maybe if I get five minutes I’ll have a go with Google Translate and post some of the copy in English. In the meantime, enjoy the glorious period graphics.
I found it here.

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How Lambretta defined 1960’s design

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Great article on the Influx blog by Gary Inman on how the Lambretta, along with the E-type Jaguar and the original BMC Mini, defined 1960’s design. My favourite part is where he compares Lambrettas to their great rival Vespa… “Lambrettas are cool and beautiful. And better. End of.”
Couldn’t agree more Gary. Read the whole thing here.

Oh, and thanks to Vespamore for the heads up… although you no doubt agree to differ, eh Paul? 🙂