NYPD Now Equipped With Piaggio(R) Scooters

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 24, 2004 -- The New York City Police Department has purchased 300 Piaggio BV200 scooters in time to use for the Republican National Convention. The announcement was made today by Piaggio USA, Inc. This addition represents an important component of the fleet, which will allow the department to easily navigate congested New York City streets. Powered by a 21 horsepower LEADER engine (Low Emissions Advanced Engine Range) mated to an automatic transmission, the BV is the ideal vehicle for stop-and-go situations. The scooters are white with customized blue NYPD decals, the NYPD motto and full protective windscreens designed for the department.

"The Piaggio name stands for innovation, quality and superior performance and we are excited to be able to supply these elements to further enhance the work of the NYPD," said Costantino Sambuy, President of Piaggio USA, Inc.

The BV is a larger, more powerful, scooter than what the NY Police Department has been using until now. It has a 200cc liquid cooled four valve motor, front and rear disc brakes for easier braking, and 16" wheels and dual shock absorbers that make for the smoothest ride in the city. With a top speed of over 75 MPH the BV also boasts features including a fold-away waterproof seat cover, electronic anti-theft immobilizer, trip computer and optional top case and side compartments.

Piaggio currently provides scooters to the New Orleans Police Department, as well as the state and municipal police in Spain, Italy, Romania, Hungary and Algeria.

For more information on the Piaggio BV see attached technical specifications and visit Piaggio online at http://www.piaggiousa.com/.

Piaggio USA, Inc. is a subsidiary of Piaggio & C. S.p.A., based in Tuscany, Italy. Since 1884 the Piaggio name has stood for innovation, quality and superior performance. The company's rich history, which includes ship outfitting, railway construction and aviation, gave way to developing practical and accessible means of transportation for post-war Italy when the first Vespa(R) motor scooter was designed in 1946. As Europe's largest manufacturer of two-wheeled vehicles (Piaggio owns 30% of the European market), Piaggio is known throughout the world for their superior technology, craftsmanship and design. The Piaggio Group owns the following brands: Piaggio, Vespa, Gilera and Derbi and has factories in Italy, Spain, India and China. Piaggio's stylish and fuel-efficient line of motor scooters is the epitome of practical indulgence.

Piaggio USA is an active member of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) and encourages riders to always wear a helmet, appropriate eyewear and proper apparel. The company suggests that all scooter owners/operators attend a motorcycle/scooter rider-training course to learn how to safely and skillfully operate a Vespa and recommends the MSF RiderCourse(R) (800/446-9227) as the best introduction to riding. For additional information, or to locate a dealership in your area, visit the Web site at http://www.piaggiousa.com/.