In this episode of the 4NewMobility Leadership Talk, I had the privilege of sitting down with Hartwig Hufnagl, the CEO of ASFINAG, Austria’s renowned motorway and expressway authority. From the moment we started, I could sense Hartwig’s deep commitment to creating a smarter, safer, and more sustainable road network. This wasn’t just an interview—it was a window into the inner workings of an organization driving Austria’s mobility transformation.

Setting the Scene: A Vision for Seamless Transportation

We began by exploring Hartwig’s priorities as ASFINAG’s CEO. He spoke passionately about four pillars that guide their work: maintaining top-notch infrastructure, embracing digital transformation, prioritizing sustainability, and upholding the highest standards of safety. His emphasis on “preventive and reactive maintenance” reminded me that behind every smooth journey is a team working tirelessly to keep roads, tunnels, and bridges in impeccable condition.

It struck me how deeply ASFINAG is investing in smart traffic management systems and real-time monitoring to reduce congestion and improve the driving experience. Hartwig’s mention of cross-border collaborations—like those with Germany and Italy—showed me just how forward-thinking ASFINAG is, considering not just national but international mobility challenges.

Overcoming the Challenges of Growth

When I asked Hartwig about the challenges they face, his response was candid and thought-provoking. He highlighted the aging infrastructure, a reality for many European road networks, and the delicate balance between upgrading it and maintaining traffic flow. What resonated most was his acknowledgment of the public’s resistance to construction-related disruptions. I could tell this was a genuine concern for him—one ASFINAG addresses through early communication and thoughtful planning.

Hartwig shared how ASFINAG is not just building more roads but making them smarter, ensuring they seamlessly integrate with public transport and rail. This focus on multimodal transport struck me as a cornerstone of modern mobility—something more operators should prioritize.

Electrification: Leading the Charge

The conversation naturally steered toward electric vehicles, an increasingly important topic for the automotive industry and people as users and citizens. Hartwig shared ASFINAG’s ambitious plans to fully electrify their vehicle fleet by 2040, with significant milestones already achieved. What stood out was their dual approach: transforming their own fleet and ensuring that Austria’s highways are equipped with robust EV charging infrastructure.

I was particularly fascinated by the challenges they face with electrifying heavy-duty trucks, especially for winter services. Hartwig explained the limitations of current battery technology, but his optimism about future advancements was visible. It’s clear that ASFINAG is not just adapting to change—they’re driving it.

The People Behind the Vision

As our conversation progressed, I wanted to delve into what keeps ASFINAG’s team so motivated. Hartwig’s answer revealed a culture that I truly admire—one of innovation, growth, and collaboration. From offering training and job rotation to fostering a healthy work-life balance, ASFINAG invests heavily in its people. I couldn’t help but think: this is what a modern organization should look like—focused not just on infrastructure but on the people building and maintaining it.

A Personal Takeaway

By the end of our discussion, I found myself reflecting on how ASFINAG’s approach embodies the future of mobility: smart, sustainable, and human-centric. Hartwig’s passion for his work was palpable, and his insights left me inspired. As someone who cherishes Austria’s beautiful landscapes, it’s heartening to know that organizations like ASFINAG are not only safeguarding the present but also shaping a cleaner, smarter future.

This wasn’t just an interview for me—it was a journey into the heart of modern infrastructure leadership. I’m grateful to Hartwig for sharing his vision and for giving us a glimpse of what it takes to keep Austria moving forward, one innovative step at a time.