The first objective for the transformation of the Ciao into an e-bike was to maintain, as far as possible, its design unchanged. The Ciao Piaggio is not just a means of transport: it is a fragment of Italian cultural identity. For those who have owned it, it represents freedom, lightness, and a unique style. For us, giving it new life with electric technology could not mean altering its soul. This is why each material chosen for our Kit is the result of precise evaluations: technical, functional and, last but not least, aesthetic.

The Ergal 7075 was the answer to the most extreme needs. This lightweight alloy, created for aerospace, combines extraordinary mechanical strength with excellent rigidity. We have adopted it for the most stressed components of the rear axle, but also for the support of the magnetic wheel of the motion sensor and the new compartment for the USB socket (located where the tank cap used to be). The tensile strength, above 500 MPa, speaks for itself. But for us, what is more important is what it represents: a promise of long-term solidity, hidden from view but essential for the safety of the vehicle.

Where adaptability and lightness were needed, however, we chose Peraluman. This aluminum alloy lends itself perfectly to being shaped: a fundamental aspect to make the plate that supports the battery and the central platform. It is not just a question of shape: it is the balance between strength and ductility that makes this choice a winning one.

Steel also plays a role. The side plates reinforcing the frame, of the same thickness as the original frame (1.5 mm), have been designed to restore structural strength after the removal of the endothermic engine. They weigh just 700 grams, but they are enough to give new vigor to the sides. All without weighing down the vehicle: on the contrary, the overall weight has dropped from the original 40 kg to about 38.5, despite the enhanced batteries.

The electric heart of this rebirth is the 250W Bafang rear motor, with 45Nm of torque. The choice of the hub motor is not only a technical preference - it was imposed by the geometries of the original frame, which do not allow the installation of a mid-mounted motor. In addition, the impossibility of adopting a sprocket set made the choice of the rear engine ideal. Bafang, a world leader in the category, guarantees high torque, quietness, very low maintenance, and a life that can exceed 15,000 km. Best of all, it blends seamlessly with the original line of the Ciao, with no visual compromises.

For the auxiliary power supply, we have inserted a 36V to 12Vdc converter, capable of providing up to 10° peak. This allows you to power not only the lights, the horn, and devices such as smartphones, but also, for example, a possible GPS tracker. On request, we provide a dedicated terminal for this tracking device, offering the customer an additional security tool.

The battery is entrusted to a specialized manufacturer that uses Samsung cells and certifies each unit according to the highest international standards: UN 38.3 for the safe transport of lithium batteries, CE for European compliance, RoHS, and WEEE for the limitation of hazardous substances and responsible recycling. A robust 37 mm rubber strap serves as a lower safety support, shock protection and vibration damper (although the latter are almost non-existent). The battery is also equipped with a key lock, for built-in anti-theft protection.

The original lights have been upgraded with 12V LEDs, keeping the light output (in lumens) of the front and rear lights intact. This allows for an improvement in efficiency and durability, without altering the appearance of the vehicle. The horn, now motorcycle and powered by 12Vdc, ensures a stronger sound signal, more suitable for contemporary traffic.

We have also strengthened the rear braking system: the front brake remains original, but a 160 mm Shimano disc has been installed at the rear, with a double-lever mechanical caliper, to ensure more modular, powerful and responsive braking, without altering the visual balance of the vehicle.

Finally, an apparently minor but fundamental detail: the side panels. We have chosen those from the FL series of Ciao, the only ones that allow you to integrate a powder-coated aluminum cup on the right side. This custom-made component protects and hides the engine's power cable, allowing it to be exited safely and continuously, while maintaining the cleanliness of the original lines.

Behind every material, every process, every technical choice, there is a clear will: not to replicate the past, but to build a harmonious dialogue between what has been and what will be.

The Ambra Italia Kit is not a simple set of components, but a vision translated into form, function, and durability.