Custom Piaggio Ape Builds

Italian Heritage Reimagined.

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Vintage Piaggio Ape converted into a six-tap mobile bar with patterned tile and hardwood shelving

About the Piaggio Ape

Born in postwar Italy as Piaggio’s answer to practical, lightweight transportation, the Ape became an enduring symbol of Italian enterprise, serving markets, cafés and small businesses across the country for generations.

At Lusso Vivo, we preserve that unmistakable three-wheeled character while transforming each vintage Ape into a distinctive hospitality experience. Our custom builds include mobile cafés, tap trucks, gelato bars, pizza concepts, photo booths and fully bespoke creations, with every detail tailored to the client’s brand and vision.

Each Ape begins as a piece of Italian motoring heritage, sourced through our trusted partners in Puglia, Italy, then reimagined and handcrafted in our Santa Barbara County atelier.

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Restored cream handlebar with tan leather trim inside a vintage Piaggio Ape cab

In the Details

  • Every build begins with an iconic Italian Ape, thoughtfully transformed into a bespoke hospitality creation. From custom fabrication to refined finishes, each detail is handcrafted to your vision.

  • Polished brass taps, hardwood tap handles, tiled back walls and warm hardwood shelving, each chosen to suit your brand and the drinks you serve.

  • Inside the cab, tan leather upholstery and trim are finished by hand, so the details guests notice up close feel as considered as the view from across the room.

  • Taps, refrigeration, coffee equipment, storage and branding are laid out around the way your team serves, whether that’s a hotel terrace, a vineyard or a wedding.

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Start Your Piaggio Ape Build

Ready to bring your vision to life? Whether you’re picturing a tap truck, a mobile café, a gelato bar or something entirely bespoke, our team is here to help. Complete the form and we’ll guide you through the next steps.

You can also contact us by phone or email:

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Tap trucks, mobile bars, cafés, gelato bars, pizza concepts, photo booths or a completely bespoke concept. Each build is designed around the way you plan to serve your guests.

  • Most coffee, food and ice cream truck builds take 30 to 60 days, while bar builds take 8 to 16 weeks, depending on the level of customization.

  • Yes. Paint color, finishes, fixtures and branding are all tailored to your business and your vision.

  • Yes. Lusso Vivo is based in Santa Barbara County, and we deliver Piaggio Ape builds across the United States and internationally.