Locandina della mostra "Lambrette a Bologna".

The aeronautical genius of Pier Luigi Torre arrives in the heart of the Land of Motors. From March 14 to July 12, 2026, the Museum of Industrial Patrimony in Bologna will host a special exhibition celebrating the Lambretta, the scooter that revolutionized urban mobility by challenging post-war technical conventions with avant-garde solutions.

Engineering excellence born from flight

Unlike the monocoque chassis of its competitors, Innocenti’s creation stood out for its single-tube structure. This design, a direct result of its creator’s aeronautical background, ensured superior rigidity and lightness. A relentless pursuit of innovation allowed Lambretta to achieve historic milestones: from the introduction of the electric starter in 1957 to the first front disc brake on a scooter in 1962, and electronic ignition in 1970 — anticipating industry standards by decades.

The heart of Bologna: from racing to great expeditions

The exhibition does more than celebrate a machine; it tells a human story deeply rooted in the Bologna territory. Through original documents and personal accounts, the show highlights the pivotal role of the Lambretta Club Bologna, whose Racing Team was a dominant force in 1960s competitive scootering.

The display pays tribute to high-level racing feats, such as Cesarino Bartolini’s victories on the legendary Isle of Man circuit, the successes of Guglielmo Guidi, and the mechanical ingenuity of Ernesto Malaguti. Space is also dedicated to epic adventures: from Cesare Battaglini’s 160,000-kilometer journey around the world to Ignazio Di Piazza’s grueling 4,500 km Sahara Raid and Giancarlo Nanni’s three expeditions to the North Cape.

Eight icons of Innocenti history

The exhibition route guides visitors through eight models of extraordinary historical and technical interest. Highlights include the ultra-rare 125 Carenata da Record (one of only two known specimens in the world) and the 125 D Corsa, featuring a desmodromic 4-speed gearbox. Also featured are symbols of the economic boom like the 150 Li Series II — a commercial powerhouse produced at a rate of 74 units per hour — and the visionary LUI 50 CL, designed in collaboration with Studio Bertone to redefine scooter aesthetics with modern, essential lines.