Vespa Elettrica 45 [2018-2020] Review: The Silent Revolution of Urban Mobility

Introduction

When Vespa announced its first all-electric scooter in 2017, it wasn’t just launching a new vehicle—it was making a statement. The Vespa Elettrica 45, produced from 2018 to 2020, represents a bold step for a brand steeped in 70 years of internal combustion heritage. This isn’t just an electric scooter; it’s a Vespa first and foremost, blending the iconic design language Italians adore with a whisper-quiet electric powertrain. After spending a week weaving through city traffic and cruising along coastal roads, it’s clear the Elettrica isn’t merely a novelty—it’s a thoughtfully engineered machine that redefines urban commuting.

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Design & Styling: Classic Vespa, Modern Electric Soul

The Elettrica 45 stays true to Vespa’s DNA with its unmistakable silhouette—a monocoque steel body, rounded front apron, and that cheeky, upward-curving rear. But look closer, and the electric identity emerges. The glossy "Electric" badge on the rear flank, the light blue accent stripe running along the bodywork, and the minimalist digital dashboard all hint at its modern powertrain.

At 1349 mm (53.1 inches) wheelbase and 102.1 kg (225 lbs) dry weight (130 kg/286 lbs wet), it’s slightly heavier than a traditional Vespa Primavera but retains the same approachable seat height of 790 mm (31.1 inches). The weight distribution feels neutral, with the lithium-ion battery pack mounted low in the frame. Fit and finish are typical Vespa: flawless paint, chrome detailing, and that satisfying thunk when you close the underseat storage compartment (which, by the way, still fits a helmet despite the battery placement).

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Riding Experience: Effortless Glide Meets Urban Agility

Twist the throttle, and the Elettrica delivers a surge of torque that’s worlds apart from its gas-powered siblings. The 4.9 PS (3.6 kW) motor may sound modest, but its 140 Nm of instantaneous torque propels the scooter from 0-50 km/h (0-31 mph) in just 4.8 seconds—enough to outpace most 125cc competitors off the line. Top speed is electronically limited to 70 km/h (43 mph), making it ideal for city centers but slightly hesitant on open roads.

Where the Elettrica truly shines is in its effortlessness. The absence of engine vibration, combined with Vespa’s trademark single-arm front suspension and rear monoshock, creates a ride quality that’s both serene and responsive. The regenerative braking system (KERS) adds a unique feel—release the throttle, and you’ll notice gentle deceleration as energy feeds back into the battery. It takes 30 minutes to adapt, but soon becomes second nature, reducing reliance on the brakes.

Handling is typical Vespa: nimble, intuitive, and confidence-inspiring. The 11-inch wheels tackle potholes better than expected, while the 140 mm (5.5-inch) drum brake (rear) and 200 mm disc brake (front) provide adequate stopping power, though rainy conditions demand caution with the rear drum.

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Technology & Range: Smarter Than Your Average Scooter

Powering the Elettrica is a 48V 4.2 kWh lithium-ion battery, offering a real-world range of 70-100 km (43-62 miles) depending on riding style. Charging takes 4 hours via a standard outlet, but Vespa’s optional fast charger cuts this to 3 hours. The dashboard features a circular LCD with battery percentage, speedometer, and a clever “Eco vs. Power” meter that nudges you toward efficient riding.

Connectivity is where Vespa flexes its modern muscles. Through the Vespa MIA app (via Bluetooth), riders can track battery status, locate charging stations, and even analyze ride statistics. It’s not Tesla-level tech, but for a scooter launched in 2018, it’s impressively forward-thinking.

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Competition: How the Elettrica Stacks Up

In the premium electric scooter segment, the Elettrica faces three key rivals:

1. BMW C Evolution: More powerful (11 kW) with a 160 km (99 mi) range, but heavier (275 kg/606 lbs) and twice the price. The BMW is a maxi-scooter; the Vespa is for style-conscious urbanites.
2. Niu NQi GT: Offers similar range and tech at a lower cost, but lacks Vespa’s build quality and design prestige.
3. Silence S01: A Spanish contender with swappable batteries, but utilitarian styling that can’t match Vespa’s charm.

The Elettrica’s advantage? It’s the only electric scooter that feels like a Vespa. Competitors may win on specs, but none replicate the emotional connection—the way passersby smile at it, or how riders feel gliding past café terraces in utter silence.

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Maintenance: Simplicity Meets Smart Upkeep

Owning an Elettrica is refreshingly low-maintenance compared to gas Vespas:
- No oil changes or valve adjustments—just annual checkups.
- Brake care: The front disc pads last ~10,000 km (6,214 mi); the rear drum shoes may need replacement every 15,000 km (9,321 mi).
- Tires: Stick to the stock 110/70-11 (front) and 120/70-10 (rear) for optimal handling.
- Battery longevity: Vespa claims 1,000 charge cycles before capacity drops to 80%. Store the scooter in temperatures above -10°C (14°F) to preserve battery health.

MOTOPARTS.store Recommendations:
- Upgrade to sintered brake pads for sharper stopping power.
- Install a battery tender for long-term storage.
- Consider Vespa’s OEM windscreen for highway comfort.

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Conclusion: The Future, Delivered with Italian Flair

The Vespa Elettrica 45 isn’t perfect—it’s expensive to buy new, and the range won’t satisfy long-distance riders. But as a daily commuter, it’s magical. The silence amplifies the joy of riding: hearing birds chirp at stoplights, conversing with a passenger without shouting, and gliding through traffic with a smirk only Vespa riders understand.

For Vespa loyalists, it’s a guilt-free evolution. For EV enthusiasts, it’s proof that electrification can enhance, rather than erase, automotive soul. And for urban riders tired of petrol stations and oil stains? It’s nothing short of a revelation.

Ready to personalize your Elettrica? Explore MOTOPARTS.store’s curated selection of Vespa-approved accessories, from vintage-inspired racks to high-performance brake upgrades—because even an electric Vespa deserves to stand out.

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Specifications sheet

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