The latest range of Italjet bikes and scooters were launched on the terrace overlooking the Portomaso marina at Portovino, St Julian's, on Friday.

Local agents Auto Trader Ltd of Qormi are confident the Maltese market will fall in love with these machines, as they have done in the rest of Europe, in Japan, South-East Asia and the United States.

Auto Trader managing director James Mangion said: "We genuinely look forward to seeing more Italjet bikes on our roads - not only will the owners enjoy the carefree rides they give; the pedestrians will enjoy the lack of fumes they let off; and everyone will appreciate the impressive Italian designs gracing our streets."

Italjet has developed more than 150 innovative models since 1959, he added. "Through more than 40 years, the company has been kept together and managed by the Tartarini family, whose members have always tried to develop their business coherently following the philosophy of innovation, which is today the trademark of Italjet in Italy as well as worldwide."

Outlining the philosophy of Italjet, Mr Mangion said it was simple: "To innovate, to be the trend-setters, to be always in the forefront, one jump ahead of the competitors. This philosophy has been proven in numerous accolades won through the years - victories in the prestigious Giro d'Italia in 1953 and 1954, three world records in Monza, and a world tour visiting 42 countries in 1957, to name a few."

More recent awards include recognition from the Museum of Modern Art and the Guggenheim, both in New York, and Scooter of The Year Awards in Germany, Spain and in Italy - twice.

In its ten-year history Mr Mangion said Auto Trade developed from a modest motoring school to a second-hand car dealership to an esteemed Audi, Porsche and Citroen dealership. "We have committed ourselves to providing the serious and reliable support levels demanded by Italjet and, to sustain this, our technical staff have undergone intensive training at Italjet. We are stocking on spares and accessories and ensuring that every Italjet owner is satisfied in all respects."

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