Piaggio had first showcased the Connectivity application at Auto Expo 2018 and it is now available on some of their scooters. The apps for both, Vespa and Aprilia scooter are now available for Android and iOS devices. It enables you to pair your smartphone to the scooter via a dongle, which is factory fitted on the top-spec models but can also be optioned to lower models for Rs 1,800 (introductory offer).
One can even get this retro-fitted to an older model, but that will require more comprehensive modifications – like changing the entire wiring harness – and that will significantly bump-up the cost. Since it is Bluetooth based, the pairing range maxes out at 35 metres. Additionally, this system is comparatively simpler than the one on the TVS Ntorq as it works only off your smartphone screen and does not integrate with the vehicle’s instrument cluster. This, in turn helps keep costs down.
Riders can find, navigate and follow their bikes using the connectivity feature. It is also equipped with a panic alert feature, wherein riders can reach out to the registered number configured with the current location and ask for help, in case of an emergency.
Through connectivity, riders can also access vehicle information like the fuel level, battery voltage, trip information, average speed and even how many times the brake has been pressed. Other features include the ability to locate nearby service stations, fuel pumps and connect with customer care executives. One can even book a service on the app.
Azaman Chothia
Vishal Venugopal
