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Piaggio van books - history and models

A book on Piaggio vans? Explore here illustrated books on the history, types and construction of Piaggio vans.

Ape Piaggio

In the years immediately after the Second World War Italy was in desperate need of reconstruction, economic resources were scarce and there was above all a lack of a vehicle capable of satisfying the new commercial reality.
On the one hand the market was offering large and expensive lorries, on the other cheap, small motorcycles but neither was suitable for small businesses.

This changed in 1947 (just a year after the launch of the Vespa) with the presentation of the Ape that from the outset enjoyed enormous success and was offered in an infinite series of variants: flat beds, panel vans, tipper trucks, trailers, autorickshaws and fire trucks.
A success story that has continued through to the present day with special versions built for the Pope and the President of the Italian Republic.

This book presents the history and the engineering of a remarkable vehicle, taking in such aspects and styling and publicity, not to mention the great intercontinental journeys undertaken with this legendary three-wheeler.
Lastly, along with the production figures, for the first time we are publishing a complete illustrated catalogue of every model produced to date, each accompanied by a detailed technical file.

Product details

Author:Giorgio Sarti
Details:230 pages, 27 x 24.5 cm / 10.6 x 9.7 in, hardback
Illustrations:numerous b&w and colour photos
Publisher:Giorgio Nada Editore (I, 2018)
ISBN:9788879116985
Cover book Ape Piaggio

Ape Piaggio

Language: English

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Piaggio Ape - Die fleißige Schwester der Vespa

NEW

In 1947, the Italian manufacturer Piaggio introduced the three-wheeled transporter "Ape" (meaning "bee") as a companion to the more famous Vespa ("wasp").
Developed during the difficult post-war years, the Ape became the last survivor of its kind. It remains the most produced three-wheeled vehicle in the world to this day.

After his successful books on the Vespa, author Günther Uhlig turns his attention to the often overlooked Ape. This revised edition presents a detailed and illustrated account of the vehicle's unique history and its lasting role in transport and daily life.

Pages of the book Piaggio Ape - Die fleißige Schwester der Vespa (1)

Product details

Author:Günther Uhlig
Details:312 pages, 27 x 24 x 2.4 cm / 10.6 x 9 x 0.94 in, hardback
Illustrations:560 b&w and colour photos
Publisher:Motorbuch Verlag (D, 2025)
ISBN:9783613047570
Cover book Piaggio Ape - Die fleißige Schwester der Vespa

Piaggio Ape - Die fleißige Schwester der Vespa

Language: German

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Last update: 16/06/2025