Piaggio Ape Auto DX

The Piaggio Ape Auto DX is a three-wheeled passenger carrier designed to enhance urban last-mile mobility operations. It comes in multiple variants and is tailored to address the evolving needs of the last-mile mobility sector.

Capable of carrying up to 4 passengers, including the driver, the Ape Auto DX offers three different powertrain configurations – CNG, LPG, and Diesel. The vehicle is equipped with hydraulically actuated drum brakes, ensuring effective braking performance in tough operational conditions.

Priced between Rs 3.52 Lakh and Rs 3.54 Lakh (ex-showroom), the Piaggio Ape Auto DX which features a 1920 mm wheelbase and a 245 mm maximum ground clearance (diesel variant), is considered a top choice among operators. It is designed for the seamless movement of people and goods across challenging urban and semi-urban environments.

Piaggio Ape Auto DX Performance

The Piaggio Ape Auto DX is available in multiple powertrain options: CNG, LPG and Diesel. The CNG and LPG variants are powered by a 230.7 cc forced air-cooled engine while the diesel variant is equipped with a 599 cc single-cylinder naturally aspirated water-cooled electronic fuel injection engine.

The CNG variant produces 9.58 Hp at 4700 rpm and 16.54 Nm at around 2200 rpm while the LPG variant churns out 10.05 Hp at 4700 rpm and 18.7 Nm at 2300 rpm and the diesel variant generates 9.39 Hp at around 3600 rpm and 23.5 Nm at 2200 rpm.

Piaggio Ape Auto DX Specifications

The Piaggio Ape Auto DX provides generous cabin space, courtesy of its 1920 mm wheelbase. The CNG and LPG variants feature body dimensions measuring 2940 mm in length, 1470 mm in width, and 1950 mm in height, with a ground clearance of 200 mm. On the other hand, the diesel variant has slightly different body dimensions – 2940 mm in length, 1465 mm in width, and 1770 mm in height.

Furthermore, the Ape Auto DX CNG is equipped with a 40-litre capacity fuel cylinder, the Ape Auto DX LPG has a 20.6-litre fuel tank, and the Ape Auto DX diesel comes with a 10.5-litre tank capacity, ensuring longer operational periods without the need for frequent refuelling intervals.

Piaggio Ape Auto DX Features

The Piaggio Ape Auto DX comes with multiple features to enhance passenger comfort and driver performance. It features a lockable glove box, black-coloured cushioned seats, an informative instrument cluster, a mobile charging port, provision for speakers and doors for the passenger row for better safety.

Piaggio Ape Auto DX Rivals

The Piaggio Ape Auto DX is a top-notch passenger carrier, competing with other popular three-wheeled commercial vehicles in India, such as the Mahindra Alfa, ATUL Gem Paxx, Bajaj Compact RE, and Bajaj Maxima Z. 

Overview

Piaggio, a pioneer in the passenger 3-wheeler manufacturing sector, has a wide range of vehicles on offer, popular among operators and fleet owners. Among them, Piaggio’s Ape Auto DX is a strong contender in the last-mile people-carrying segment, optimised to carry three people with comfort and help the owner earn higher revenues. 

Some of the key attributes of this 3-wheeler from Piaggio include the availability of multiple powertrain configurations – CNG, LPG, and Diesel, an advanced gearbox that can deliver higher torque output and multiple driver productivity and comfort-oriented features, necessary for enhancing fleet performance and driver revenue. 

Besides these, the Piaggio Ape Auto DX comes with lower maintenance requirements, and a robust drivetrain, complemented by durable aggregates, for customer profitability. The vehicle also comes with a modern design appeal and has stylish interiors, practical and tough for long-term usage.

Moreover, with twin headlights enhancing night-time visibility and aesthetics, and blacked-out fascia for a more modern and premium look, the Piaggio Ape Auto DX is one of the best 3-wheelers currently available in the 3-wheeler passenger carrier segment.

Exterior

The Piaggio Ape Auto DX is a robust, rugged, and durable auto-rickshaw capable of handling tough operations effortlessly. With the adoption of BS6 emission standards, the Ape Auto DX boasts an upgraded body structure, providing it with a modern and premium appearance that meets the expectations of customers.

The vehicle also incorporates a wide windshield, offering both practicality and aesthetics. To address the needs of customers navigating challenging road conditions, the Auto DX also features robust steel rims that contribute to its rugged aesthetic.

Interior

The Piaggio Ape Auto DX comes with a stylish and modern-looking cabin space. It has ample amount of legroom and headroom inside the cabin for seating 4 occupants, including the driver, comfortably. It also comes equipped with a lockable glove box, an informative instrument cluster, a mobile charging port, and doors for the passenger row for safety.

To further enhance its appeal, the vehicle features a stylish dashboard layout with an ergonomic design, ensuring that switches are conveniently placed within reach of the operator.

Performance

The Piaggio Ape Auto DX is available in multiple powertrain options: CNG, LPG and Diesel. The CNG and LPG variants are powered by a 230.7 cc forced air-cooled engine while the diesel variant is equipped with a 599 cc single-cylinder naturally aspirated water-cooled electronic fuel injection engine. 

The CNG variant produces 9.58 Hp at 4700 rpm and 16.54 Nm at around 2200 rpm while the LPG variant churns out 10.05 Hp at 4700 rpm and 18.7 Nm at 2300 rpm and the diesel variant generates 9.39 Hp at around 3600 rpm and 23.5 Nm at 2200 rpm.

The Ape Auto DX from Piaggio is also equipped with hydraulic telescopic shock absorbers with helical compression spring and damper in the front for stability, and hydraulic telescopic shock absorbers with rubber compression spring and damper for ride comfort. 

Additionally, for effective braking performance and lower maintenance requirements, the vehicle features a drum brake setup.

Safety

The Ape Auto DX from Piaggio is built on a robust chassis capable of handling tough road conditions. It incorporates sturdy body panels and a reliable suspension system, prioritising the safety and comfort of its occupants. With features such as a canopy and passenger doors, the vehicle is specifically designed to ensure the safety of its occupants.

Verdict

Given the multiple safety and comfort features that enhance driver performance and comfort, tough body construction, and advanced and efficient powertrains, the Ape Auto DX from Piaggio is ideal for operators planning to use the vehicle for enhancing business growth and profitability.