Vespa has lept onto the leading edge of urban transportation with its first-ever all-electric model, the Vespa Elettrica, due to begin production in late 2017. Meanwhile, Vespa has launched the limited edition Vespa 946 RED model to benefit research and prevention of AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria in Africa, where millions of people are at-risk of contracting the life-threatening illnesses. While scooters have long been a viable alternative to cars in urban areas, since they use less fuel and take up less space, all-electric scooters are not yet the standard. The Vespa Elettrica model was developed by the Piaggio Group, parent company to the Vespa brand and a leading maker of electric engines. While few details are known at this time, the preliminary product shots reveal a snappy body with signature Vespa style.