Piaggio Ape Xtra LDX Plus

The Piaggio Ape Xtra LDX Plus is a three-wheeled cargo haulage-oriented vehicle specifically crafted to address the transportation requirements of small businesses in both urban and rural areas. This cargo carrier stands out with its multiple powertrain options, enhanced fuel efficiency, versatile load body, and advanced features. 

The Ape Xtra LDX Plus is also an ideal choice for a wide range of last-mile cargo haulage applications since it is offered in two different variants based on fuel configurations – Diesel and CNG. Equipped with hydraulic drum brakes which require lower maintenance and are effective, the Ape Xtra LDX Plus is a popular pick among operators seeking performance.

Prices for the Piaggio Ape Xtra LDX Plus start at Rs 2.66 lakh and go up to Rs 3.09 lakh (ex-showroom). Featuring a 2100 mm wheelbase and offering a ground clearance of 245 mm in the diesel variant and 235 mm in the CNG variant, this vehicle is well-suited for operators intending to navigate urban environments, aiming for higher profitability.

Piaggio Ape Xtra LDX Plus Performance

The Ape Xtra LDX Plus from Piaggio comes in two variants – CNG and Diesel. The CNG variant is powered by a 300 cc 4-stroke water-cooled 2 valve BS6 compliant engine which can produce 11.4 Hp at 4200 rpm and 22.35 Nm at approximately 2800 rpm.

Meanwhile, the Diesel variant comes powered by a 597.7 cc single cylinder naturally aspirated water-cooled direct injection and electronic fuel injection based BS6 compliant diesel engine which can generate 9.39 Hp at 3600 rpm and 23.5 Nm at around 2200 rpm.

Both engines of the Piaggio Ape Xtra LDX Plus are paired with a constant mesh 5-speed manual gearbox. A constant mesh gearbox is a type of transmission in which all or most of the gears are always in mesh with one another. Whereas a sliding gear transmission’s engagement is achieved by sliding some of the gears along a shaft into the mesh.

Piaggio Ape Xtra LDX Plus Specifications

The Piaggio Ape Xtra LDX Plus, with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 975 kg, provides a generous load body space suitable for transporting moderately heavy loads. However, the CNG variant features a slightly larger overall length compared to the Diesel variant. Specifically, the Diesel variant has an overall length of 3295 mm, while the CNG variant extends to an overall length of 3315 mm.

Furthermore, the diesel variant comes with a 10-litre fuel tank while the CNG variant comes with a 40-litre gas tank and 2.8-litre petrol tank. This ensures that the Piaggio Ape Xtra LDX Plus offers longer operational time without frequent refuelling intervals.

Piaggio Ape Xtra LDX Plus Features

The Ape Xtra LDX Plus comes with multiple features to enhance user experience and driver comfort. It features a lockable glove box, cushioned seats, an informative instrument cluster, a mobile charging port and provision for speakers. 

Piaggio Ape Xtra LDX Rivals

The Ape Xtra LDX Plus comes with adequate features, an ergonomic cabin space, and powerful powertrain configurations and is crafted to be robust for carrying bigger loads efficiently. Key rivals of the Piaggio Ape Xtra LDX Plus include the Mahindra Alfa Plus, Atul Gem Cargo and the Bajaj Maxima C.

Overview

The commercial-grade 4-wheeler market has always been in demand among last-mile logistics. However, there has been a gradual increase in demand for compact and low-maintenance 3-wheeled cargo hauliers from brands like Piaggio, contributing to a higher annual volume. This surge is notably attributed to vehicles like the Ape Xtra LDX Plus.

The Piaggio Ape Xtra LDX Plus is a popular choice among operators, contributing to the growing demand for 3-wheelers, since it is an efficient vehicle suitable for navigating urban, semi-urban and rural geographies effortlessly. Featuring two different variants – Diesel and CNG – the Ape Xtra LDX Plus is crafted for higher revenue, resulting in higher demand.

Besides its efficient powertrain configurations, the Ape Xtra LDX Plus also features multiple driver productivity-oriented features and vehicle performance enablers such as an informative instrument cluster, a mobile charging port and maintenance-free electricals. These contribute to the vehicle’s popularity among operators in India.

Moreover, as entrepreneurs and established businesses are in search of efficient 3-wheelers available in multiple powertrain configurations, the Piaggio Ape Xtra LDX stands out as a popular choice for helping businesses gain higher revenue by delivering higher gradeability.

Exterior

The Piaggio Ape Xtra LDX Plus is crafted to endure challenging operational conditions, featuring robust body panels and a sturdy load body structure capable of handling the stress of heavy loads. Additionally, it boasts a stylish and modern cabin design, catering to a diverse customer base.

In terms of aesthetic appeal, the vehicle is adorned with side decals for a more upmarket appearance, incorporates black elements on the fascia for a muscular look, and prominently displays the Piaggio logo, serving as a distinct identity for operators. Further dual halogen headlights are integrated to enhance both the look and performance of this vehicle. 

Interior

The Ape Xtra LDX Plus 3-wheeler has a modern and comfortable cabin space. The interior of the vehicle is designed to be ergonomic and stylish. Inside the cabin, the vehicle also hosts a plethora of features to improve comfort and driver performance. These include a new dashboard, black cushioned seats and a backrest, and an informative instrument cluster.

Performance

The Ape Xtra LDX Plus from Piaggio comes in two variants – CNG and Diesel. The CNG variant is powered by a 300 cc 4-stroke water-cooled 2 valve BS6 compliant engine which can produce 11.4 Hp at 4200 rpm and 22.35 Nm at approximately 2800 rpm.

Meanwhile, the Diesel variant comes powered by a 597.7 cc single cylinder naturally aspirated water-cooled direct injection and electronic fuel injection based BS6 compliant diesel engine which can generate 9.39 Hp at 3600 rpm and 23.5 Nm at around 2200 rpm.

It also features hydraulic telescopic shock absorbers at both ends. However, the front is equipped with a helical spring and dampener, and the rear is fitted with rubber springs and dampener. This is to ensure stability and enhance load-carrying capacity, making it well-suited for various operational needs.

Safety

The Ape Xtra LDX Plus from Piaggio is built on a robust chassis platform that can handle the stress of heavy loads. It comes with sturdy panels and is fitted with a tough deck to carry bigger loads safely and efficiently. Prioritising safety and comfort, it also boasts a robust body and a reliable suspension system. 

Verdict

Considering its efficient powertrains, multiple-performance oriented features, strong load body, and stylish and ergonomic design, the Ape Xtra LDX Plus from Piaggio is perfect for short-distance or last-mile cargo transportation operations. It is an ideal choice for operators planning to enhance business operations and profitability.