Diego Graffi Chairman and MD, Piaggio Vehicles – Leaders In Tech & Auto

1. What’s your leadership mantra in the fast-evolving auto landscape?

My leadership mantra within this ever-changing automotive world is adaptive empowerment. The environment is rapidly changing. Hence, we must not only be prepared for change but also have a team that is ready to pivot. The auto industry is evolving rapidly. So we need to adapt. This means giving people the information and tools to make decisions, encouraging everyone to learn new things, place our trust in them. Above all, being quick to change our plans when needed. By empowering our team, we become a stronger and more agile company, ready for most eventualities.

2. How do you inspire and motivate your team during a challenging time?

I firmly believe in leading with transparency and purpose. This openness fosters trust and allows everyone to feel included in the journey we are navigating together. While being transparent, we must also remind everyone of our larger goals and the significance of everyone’s contribution to achieving those objectives. 

To maintain a positive atmosphere, we focus on our strengths and celebrate every success. Recognising achievements boosts morale and builds stronger team connections. Moreover, it’s crucial to support each other during tough times, as collaboration can bring out the best in us. 

Motivation flourishes when people understand that their work has a meaningful impact. When we acknowledge and appreciate their hard work and commitment, it not only encourages them to persevere but also cultivates a culture of appreciation and respect. By reinforcing these values, we can navigate adversity together, emerging stronger and more united as a team.

3. What’s a mistake you see many young auto leaders making?

A common mistake among young auto leaders is being too rigid in their approach. In the fast-changing automotive industry, sticking to traditional methods can lead to missed opportunities and stagnation. Leaders must foster an environment of openness and encourage experimentation with new ideas. 

Embracing failures as learning opportunities is essential for growth and innovation. Additionally, understanding the importance of multi-disciplinary collaboration is crucial. Leaders should proactively facilitate teamwork across departments, anticipating needs and breaking down silos. 

By prioritising flexibility, creativity, and collaboration, leaders can navigate the industry’s complexities and ensure their teams succeed in an evolving landscape.

Also Read: Devita Saraf – Leaders In Tech & Auto

4. What’s the next big disruption you foresee in the auto industry?

In addition to vehicle electrification, hyper-personalisation paired with sustainable urban mobility solutions is set to be the next major disruption in transportation. Drivers increasingly seek vehicles and services tailored to their individual preferences and lifestyles, which must be integrated seamlessly with smart city infrastructure. 

As environmental consciousness grows, consumers are prioritising transportation options with minimal ecological impact, leading to a rise in car-sharing, ride-sharing, and public transportation models. 

To meet these demands, the industry will need to offer flexible mobility solutions, such as subscription services and adaptive ownership models. Additionally, advanced urban features like battery swapping and enhanced charging infrastructure will be crucial. 

5. What books, podcasts, or quotes changed your perspective on leadership in Auto?

The “Commissario Montalbano” series by Andrea Camilleri has profoundly influenced my leadership perspective, particularly in the automotive industry. Montalbano’s investigations exemplify a leadership style focused on human behaviour and problem-solving, reminding us to look beyond surface issues to understand underlying factors.

6. How is Piaggio redefining urban mobility for the Indian consumer in 2025?

In 2025, we are transforming urban mobility in India in several exciting ways. Our Apé three-wheelers run on diesel, petrol, CNG, LPG, and electricity, offering flexibility and affordability. The Apé Electrik range focuses on performance and battery innovation, including a subscription model. On the two-wheeler front, we launched the Aprilia RS 457, Tuono457, and Vespa’s luxury scooters with tech upgrades, including the India-exclusive Vespa Qala. We aim to build on this momentum through strategic product introductions and innovation that blend practicality, technology, and high-quality design.