In the cargo segment, popular models include the Apé Xtra and Apé Xtra Classic, known for their reliability and versatility in transporting goods. For passenger transportation, the Apé Auto Classic, Apé NXT+, and Apé Metro are widely used for last-mile connectivity. Piaggio has also expanded its electric vehicle offerings with models like the Apé E-Xtra FX Max and Apé E-City FX Max, gaining traction in the growing electric mobility space.
While the three-wheeler segment remains its core business, Piaggio India also ventured into the two-wheeler market with the launch of the iconic Vespa scooters in 2012, followed by the Aprilia brand in 2016. These premium scooters have carved a niche in the Indian market, focusing on style, performance, and technology. The company recently unveiled its 2025 Vespa portfolio, including technologically advanced models like the Vespa S Tech with features like keyless ignition and integrated navigation, positioning Vespa as a luxury lifestyle brand in India.
Piaggio India has a strong manufacturing presence with a technologically advanced plant in Baramati, Maharashtra. The company has also been expanding its dealership and service network across the country to enhance customer reach and after-sales support. Despite facing competition, particularly in the three-wheeler segment from players like Bajaj Auto, Piaggio holds a significant market share and continues to adapt to the evolving market dynamics with a focus on innovation and expanding its electric vehicle and premium two-wheeler offerings. The company’s long-standing presence and understanding of the Indian market have solidified its position as a key player in the light commercial vehicle and premium scooter segments.
Latest News on Piaggio Commercial – India
Piaggio’s bid for 3D trademark protection has been rejected.
The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) has rejected the Piaggio Group’s attempt to register a three-dimensional trademark for the shape of a scooter. The Piaggio Group, manufacturer of the iconic Vespa, had filed an application to protect the shape of a scooter in classes 12 (scooters) and 28 (scooter models). However, the EUIPO refused the registration, citing that the shape of the scooter does not deviate significantly from industry standards and is therefore not distinctive.
The EUIPO noted that the relevant public does not perceive a shape mark in the same way as a word mark, and that only a trademark that deviates significantly from the norm or practices of the sector is not devoid of distinctive character. The Piaggio Group had argued that three features of its scooter stood out from industry standards, but the EUIPO dismissed these arguments, finding that the overall impression of the scooter is very similar to other scooters on the market.
This decision highlights the difficulty of protecting non-traditional trademarks, such as three-dimensional marks, color marks, and pattern marks. The EUIPO has consistently held that such marks must acquire distinctive character through use in order to be registrable. However, this can be a challenging and costly process, requiring evidence of use across all EU member states.
The Piaggio Group had referenced an earlier registration of a similar three-dimensional trademark, but the EUIPO noted that this mark had been maintained in the register due to its distinctive character acquired through use. The EUIPO found that the new mark was almost identical to the earlier mark and therefore could not be registered.
The key takeaway from this decision is that brand owners face significant challenges in protecting their non-traditional trademarks. While it may be possible to acquire distinctive character through use, the level of proof required by the European authorities is high, and the process can be complex and costly. Brand owners will be hoping for further relaxation of the requirements for assessing distinctive character in order to allow for more effective defense of their rights across the EU.
Piaggio collaborates with Hinduja Leyland Finance to increase the accessibility of three-wheelers in India’s market.
Piaggio Vehicles India has partnered with Hinduja Leyland Finance (HLF) to make its three-wheeler vehicles more affordable in India. The partnership aims to provide easy ownership experiences for small entrepreneurs, fleet operators, and first-time buyers. Piaggio’s range of three-wheelers, including both electric and internal combustion engine variants, will be available with customized financing options.
The partnership will enable HLF to offer retail finance across Piaggio’s three-wheeler segment, with flexible term loans that match customers’ income patterns and operational requirements. This will make ownership more accessible and open up new avenues for customers to own a three-wheeler. The financing options will be designed to respond to the unique circumstances of small entrepreneurs and fleet operators, who are driving the growing demand for three-wheelers in India.
According to Diego Graffi, CMD of Piaggio, the mobility landscape in India is changing, with a growing demand from small entrepreneurs and fleet operators. He emphasized that the financing options will be tailored to meet their specific needs. Sachin Pillai, MD & CEO of HLF, noted that the partnership combines Piaggio’s strong product offerings with HLF’s extensive financing network across India, which will facilitate last-mile connectivity, asset acquisition, and income generation.
The partnership is expected to significantly reduce entry barriers in the three-wheeler market, making it easier for customers to own a vehicle. With this collaboration, Piaggio and HLF aim to support the growing demand for three-wheelers in India, which is driven by the need for affordable and efficient transportation solutions. The partnership will provide customers with more flexible repayment options, making it easier for them to own a three-wheeler and participate in the growing mobility landscape in India.
Piaggio and Hinduja Leyland Finance form partnership to streamline financing for three-wheelers in India
Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd, a leading manufacturer of small commercial vehicles in India, has partnered with Hinduja Leyland Finance, a top non-banking financial company (NBFC), to provide customized financing solutions for its three-wheeler range. The partnership aims to simplify vehicle financing and accelerate ownership, making it easier for customers to purchase Piaggio’s electric vehicles (EVs) and internal combustion engine (ICE) models.
The agreement was signed by Diego Graffi, Chairman and Managing Director of Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd, and Sachin Pillai, Managing Director and CEO of Hinduja Leyland Finance. Under this partnership, Hinduja Leyland Finance will offer tailored financial products to Piaggio’s customers, combining the company’s expertise in vehicle financing with Piaggio’s trusted portfolio of three-wheelers.
According to Diego Graffi, the partnership is designed to make vehicle ownership more accessible and simpler for a new class of owners emerging in India’s rapidly evolving mobility landscape. He believes that the partnership will enable progress by providing mobility solutions that people can truly call their own.
Sachin Pillai added that the partnership brings together the strengths of both companies to help customers acquire and manage their vehicles efficiently. By combining Hinduja Leyland Finance’s financing reach and agility with Piaggio’s product offerings, the company aims to make three-wheeler ownership more accessible to customers through a customized financing process.
The partnership is expected to benefit small entrepreneurs and fleet operators who need financing solutions that understand their realities. With this collaboration, Piaggio and Hinduja Leyland Finance are poised to make a significant impact in India’s mobility sector, providing customers with easier access to vehicle financing and ownership. The partnership was announced on August 25, 2025, and is expected to drive growth and progress in the industry.
By mid-2028, Piaggio anticipates that half of its sales will consist of the L5 electric 3-wheeler.
Piaggio Vehicles, a leading manufacturer of small commercial vehicles, expects the electric three-wheeler segment to reach 50% penetration in the domestic market by mid-2028. According to Diego Graffy, Chairman and Managing Director of Piaggio Commercial Vehicles Pvt Ltd, the penetration of L5 electric three-wheelers has been increasing despite a reduction in government incentives under the FAME program. The company believes that this growth is due to a structural shift in the market, driven by factors such as improved charging infrastructure, lower cost of acquisition, and ease of financing and servicing.
The electric three-wheeler segment is divided into two categories: L5 and L3. L5 refers to three-wheeler auto-rickshaws for carrying passengers or cargo, while L3 refers to e-carts. The government has been promoting the adoption of electric vehicles through various fiscal incentives, including the FAME program, which ended in March last year. A new program, PM E-Drive Scheme, was announced in September 2024 with an outlay of Rs 10,900 crore to boost EV sales.
Graffy noted that despite the reduction in incentives, the demand for electric three-wheelers has continued to grow, with L5 passenger electric three-wheeler penetration accounting for 22.8% of total EV sales in FY 25. The company has launched two new electric passenger three-wheelers, the Ape E-City Ultra and Ape FX Maxx, priced at Rs 3.80 lakh and Rs 3.30 lakh, respectively. These vehicles are designed to provide best-in-class range, low battery degradation, strong performance, and minimal operating costs.
However, Graffy emphasized the need for clarity on the continuation of government incentives, which is currently uncertain. He stated that even if the government wants to discontinue incentives from a particular date, it should be declared clearly so that OEMs can plan their strategy accordingly. Piaggio Vehicles is maintaining its pace with the industry’s growth and is focused on innovating and introducing new features and technologies every two years. The company believes that electric vehicles are an opportunity to reshape urban transport and improve livelihoods, and it is committed to contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Aprilia may be set to unveil a new X GP model in the near future
Piaggio, the parent company of Aprilia, has filed a new trademark for a limited edition Aprilia X model, which will be the fifth in the series. The upcoming bike, expected to be called the X GP, is likely to be an extreme version of the RSV4, building on the technology and expertise gained from Aprilia’s MotoGP racing project. The X GP will follow in the footsteps of previous limited edition X models, including the RSV4 X, Tuono V4 X, and RSV4 XTrenta, which have all been highly exclusive and sought-after by motorcycle enthusiasts.
The first Aprilia X model, the RSV4 X, was introduced in 2019 to celebrate 10 years of the RSV4 superbike. It featured a carbon fiber fairing and high-performance Brembo brake calipers. Subsequent X models have also been based on the RSV4 and Tuono platforms, with a focus on track-only performance and advanced technology. The latest X GP model is expected to take this to the next level, with rumors suggesting it will be closer than ever to the prototype bikes raced in MotoGP.
While details of the X GP are still scarce, it’s believed to be the fourth model based on the RSV4 platform. However, there’s still a possibility that it could be based on the Tuono platform instead. Aprilia’s parent company Piaggio has filed trademark applications with both the European Union and UK intellectual property offices, indicating that the bike is likely to be released in the near future.
The previous limited edition X model, the RSV4 X ex3ma, sold all 30 units in just 76 days, demonstrating the high demand for these exclusive bikes. With the X GP expected to be the most extreme variant yet, it’s likely to generate significant interest among motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors. As with previous X models, the X GP will likely feature advanced technology and high-performance components, making it a highly desirable bike for those who can get their hands on one.
Recent Updates
Giovanni Tomassini Takes the Helm as New CEO of Piaggio Aerospace
The Board of Directors of Baykar Piaggio Aerospace SpA has announced the appointment of Giovanni Tomassini as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the company. Tomassini, who was previously the Chief Operating Officer, will lead the company into a new phase of industrial development and international growth. The appointment represents a choice of continuity and trust in the competences of the current management, according to Haluk Bayraktar, CEO of Baykar and Chairman of the Board of Baykar Piaggio Aerospace.
Tomassini has a strong background in the aerospace industry, with a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the Politecnico University of Milan. He joined Piaggio Aerospace in 2009, after working at Ansaldo Sistemi Industriali and Aermacchi, where he held the position of Production Manager. His experience and expertise will be crucial in making the company’s new industrial vision a reality, combining the legacy of Piaggio Aerospace with the innovation and expertise of Baykar.
The appointment of Tomassini as CEO marks a significant step forward for the company, which has been under extraordinary administration for several years. With Tomassini at the helm, Baykar Piaggio Aerospace is now poised to restart with a new industrial vision, one that is capable of driving growth and development in the aerospace industry. The company’s new leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective and new ideas to the table, building on the company’s rich history and legacy.
Baykar Piaggio Aerospace SpA is a leading player in the aerospace industry, with a strong focus on innovation and technology. The company’s business complexes were previously owned by Piaggio Aero and Piaggio Aviation, which were under extraordinary administration. The transfer of these business complexes to Baykar Piaggio Aerospace SpA represents a significant milestone in the company’s history, and paves the way for a new era of growth and development. With Tomassini as CEO, the company is well-positioned to achieve its goals and become a major player in the global aerospace industry.
Italy’s aerospace industry gets a boost with Baykar’s strategic takeover of Piaggio
Turkey’s Baykar has finalized the acquisition of Italy’s Piaggio Aerospace, a deal that aims to preserve jobs, relaunch aircraft production, and build drones in Italy. The agreement was finalized in Rome, with Italy’s Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy hosting the event. Baykar, led by Selçuk Bayraktar, the son-in-law of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, is the world’s top drone exporter. The deal follows the withdrawal of previous majority owner Mubadala, an Emirati sovereign wealth fund, and comes after years of state support to keep Piaggio operational.
The Italian government had provided key orders to sustain the company, including the upgrade of 12 P.180 aircraft to the new Avanti II+ configuration and the purchase of 15 brand-new P.180 EVO+ aircraft. The deal has been cleared by Italy’s Prime Minister’s Office under the country’s golden power rules, which screen strategic assets for national interest. Enterprise Minister Adolfo Urso hailed the move as a “strategic step for the revival of one of Italy’s historic aerospace brands.”
Baykar has committed to maintaining current employment levels at Piaggio’s facilities in Villanova d’Albenga and Genoa, and even expanding the workforce as production increases. The company aims to relaunch Piaggio Aerospace with an ambitious industrial vision, which includes revitalizing the P.180 Avanti executive twin-engine aircraft, launching domestic production of Baykar’s TB3 and Akinci drones in Italy, and building a high-level European maintenance centre!ita for aircraft engines and airframes.
In addition to the acquisition, Baykar has signed a memorandum of understanding with Italian defence giant Leonardo to establish a joint company focused on unmanned aerial systems. Baykar will contribute the platform, while Leonardo will provide mission systems, payloads, and certification. The partnership is seen as a significant development in the Italian aerospace industry, with Baykar’s CEO Haluk Bayraktar praising the resilience of Piaggio’s workforce and promising to work alongside them to create new opportunities. The deal is expected to boost Italy and Europe’s aerospace competitiveness, and marks a significant step in the revival of one of Italy’s historic aerospace brands.
Piaggio Scooters are now backed by a 4-year warranty, although the offer excludes the US market.
Piaggio Group, a European scooter manufacturer, has made a bold move by offering a four-year warranty on a wide range of Euro 5 and Euro 5+ scooters under the Aprilia, Piaggio, and Vespa brands. This offer is valid in Europe, the UK, and several nearby countries, but not in the US. The warranty covers parts and labor, and is available at no extra cost, as long as the owner follows the maintenance schedule and stays within the mileage cap.
The models included in the warranty program are some of the most popular and iconic scooters in the market, such as the Vespa GTS, Primavera, and Sprint, as well as the Piaggio Beverly and Aprilia SR GT. These scooters are known for their style, comfort, and performance, and the extended warranty is a testament to Piaggio’s confidence in their quality and reliability.
It’s worth noting that the warranty does not apply to Aprilia’s higher-end motorcycles, such as the RS 660, Tuono V4, and RSV4, which are built for high-performance and track use. However, the extended warranty for scooters is a significant development, and it may pave the way for similar offers in the future for other types of vehicles.
Piaggio’s move is part of a larger trend in the industry, where manufacturers are offering extended warranties to build buyer trust and loyalty. For example, Yamaha is offering a 10-year warranty in India on select models, and Chinese automakers are also increasing their warranty coverage. This shift towards longer warranties reflects changing consumer expectations, where long-term peace of mind is no longer a luxury, but a standard feature.
The implications of Piaggio’s warranty offer go beyond the European market, as it sets a new benchmark for the industry. Even if the offer is not available in the US, it sends a clear message that manufacturers are willing to stand behind their products and provide extended protection to their customers. As the market continues to evolve, it’s likely that we’ll see more manufacturers following suit and offering longer warranties to stay competitive. Overall, Piaggio’s four-year warranty is a significant development that reflects the company’s commitment to quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
Singer Introduces Latest ‘Piaggio Apé’ Three-Wheelers to the Market
Singer Sri Lanka, a leading retailer of consumer durables and a benchmark for quality and innovation, launched the new range of ‘Piaggio Apé’ three-wheelers in the local market. This launch marks a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to expand its product portfolio and cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly and efficient transportation solutions.
The Piaggio Apé is a renowned brand of three-wheelers known for its reliability, durability, and versatility. The new range of Piaggio Apé three-wheelers introduced by Singer Sri Lanka boasts of advanced features, improved performance, and enhanced safety. These three-wheelers are designed to provide a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation for both personal and commercial use.
The new Piaggio Apé range includes various models, each tailored to meet specific customer needs. The three-wheelers are equipped withadvanced engines that offer superior fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and lower operating costs. They also feature robust build quality, comfortable seating, and ample storage space, making them ideal for a variety of applications, including passenger transport, goods transport, and mobile vending.
Singer Sri Lanka has partnered with the Piaggio Group, a global leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of two- and three-wheelers, to introduce the Piaggio Apé range in Sri Lanka. This partnership enables Singer to leverage Piaggio’s expertise and technology to offer high-quality, reliable, and innovative three-wheelers that meet international standards.
The launch of the Piaggio Apé range is expected to have a significant impact on the local transportation sector, particularly in the context of the government’s efforts to promote eco-friendly and sustainable transportation solutions. The three-wheelers are an attractive alternative to traditional modes of transport, offering a cost-effective, fuel-efficient, and environmentally friendly option for both individuals and businesses.
Singer Sri Lanka has announced attractive promotional offers and financing options to mark the launch of the Piaggio Apé range. Customers can visit Singer showrooms and experience the new three-wheelers firsthand, with the option to test drive and purchase their preferred model. With the introduction of the Piaggio Apé range, Singer Sri Lanka is poised to revolutionize the local transportation sector and provide customers with a reliable, efficient, and innovative mode of transportation.
Piaggio Vietnam Collaborates with National Economics University to Empower Future Leaders
Piaggio, the global mobility leader, has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Vietnam by partnering with the National Economics University (NEU) to empower the younger generation. The partnership aims to bridge education with real-world experience and provide opportunities for students to engage with the corporate environment. The collaboration was marked by a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signing ceremony attended by senior leaders from both parties.
The partnership between Piaggio Vietnam and NEU will focus on education, knowledge exchange, professional consultancy, and career opportunities for students. Piaggio is committed to accompanying the younger generation on their professional journeys, sparking innovation, and encouraging global thinking. The company is seeking high-quality talent and affirming its commitment to Vietnam’s future.
As part of the partnership, Piaggio has set up a dedicated space on the NEU campus to showcase Italian products and culture. The space offers students a closer look at Piaggio’s iconic Italian design and a deeper appreciation of the company’s creativity, technological legacy, and long-term vision. The partnership also includes a series of engagement activities, including a CEO Talk titled ‘Beyond Mobility – Vespa and the Italian Way of Life’, which was attended by NEU students.
The talk, given by Gianluca Fiume, General Director of Piaggio Vietnam, shared the brand journey of Vespa and its evolution into a global symbol of Italian culture, embodying freedom, creativity, and individuality. The event sparked great enthusiasm among NEU students, particularly those interested in branding and modern management thinking.
Piaggio’s commitment to empowering the next generation is also reflected in its participation in the Green Economy Forum and Exhibition in Ho Chi Minh City, where it showcased three new offerings. The company’s dedication to Vietnam’s future is evident in its long-standing presence in the country and its efforts to nurture young talent through initiatives such as the Young Lions program.
The partnership with NEU is a significant step towards bridging the gap between education and the corporate world, providing students with practical experience and exposure to the industry. By working together, Piaggio Vietnam and NEU aim to create a new generation of forward-thinking young leaders who are equipped to drive innovation and growth in Vietnam. With its strong commitment to the country, Piaggio is poised to continue making a positive impact on Vietnam’s future.
From a 10-Year Waiting List to an Abrupt Exit: The Mysterious Case of Bajaj Chetak’s Demise
Rahul Bajaj, a prominent Indian businessman and leader, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy that is deeply intertwined with the country’s economic landscape. His life story, as chronicled in the biography “Rahul Bajaj, Ek Bemisal Zindagi” by Geeta Piramal, highlights his upbringing in a family with strong ties to Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian independence movement, which shaped his values and business practices. Under his leadership, Bajaj Auto, India’s largest two-wheeler and three-wheeler manufacturer, achieved great success, becoming the world’s fourth largest manufacturer in its category.
The biography sheds light on pivotal moments, including the rebranding of Bajaj scooters after ending its partnership with Piaggio, a move that proved successful due to the brand’s strong reputation and a 10-year waiting list for their scooters. The Bajaj Chetak, named after the legendary steed of Maharana Pratap Singh, became an iconic symbol of middle-class India, known for its affordability, reliability, and status symbol. Although it was discontinued in 2005 due to the company’s failure to recognize the shift towards motorcycles in the late 1990s, Bajaj Auto continued to thrive, ending 2021 with a market capitalization of Rs 1,00,670.76 crore (approximately $13.6 billion).
A testament to the company’s ability to adapt and innovate, Bajaj Auto revived the Chetak in 2019 as an electric scooter. Rahul Bajaj’s life story is a testament to his business acumen and the enduring legacy of a brand that has become synonymous with Indian mobility. His passing leaves a void, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of business leaders.