Vespa

This is Fred Ball for Zions Bank, speaking on business.

If you have ever had the opportunity to travel outside the United States, you have seen the huge use of motor scooters. In some countries they outnumber automobiles by two or three to one. In Taiwan or Thailand, there are many, many more scooters than cars.

Americans seem to have a love affair with their automobile, and the two-wheeled vehicles are not near as prominent in this country. Well, Chuck and Melonie Barber are trying to change all of that.

Chuck and Melonie, along with cousin Trish Halamandaris, are opening a new Vespa motor-scooter outlet in the Sugarhouse area. The Vespa is an Italian made vehicle that is extremely popular around the globe. The Tuscan manufactured scooter was designed and built right after World War II to provide a means of conveyance for the destitute populace of Italy.

The new scooter boutique is located at 1155 E. Wilmington Ave and will have a variety of motor-scooters and also feature clothing and accessories that incorporate the Vespa logo and highlight the "Vespa Lifestyle."

Chuck Barber brings a great deal of transportation knowledge to the new business. He is one of the "Barber Brothers" of the automobile dealer chain. He feels that there is a real pent-up demand for the scooters. Vespa has not been available in the U. S. for over 17 years after the company discontinued doing business in the country because of EPA concerns. The new versions of the machines still have the "retro" look, but their new engine is very clean and will get about 55 miles per gallon. The machines can reach speeds of 55 m.p.h. and has a five horsepower engine.

Halamandaris is pleased that Vespa has decided to re-enter the U.S. market. She said that they recognized that their "retro" appearance is now back in fashion and the clean engine negates the EPA concern.

She indicated that St. George would probably be the next site for their dealership.

For Zions Bank, I'm Fred Ball. I'm speaking on business.