Mumbai – Škoda Auto celebrates a major milestone as it marks 25 years in India. What began in January 2000 with the foundation stone for its plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad) has transformed into a thriving operation that plays a crucial role in the brand’s international expansion. As the first Volkswagen Group brand to establish a presence in India, Škoda Auto has evolved into a key player, driving the Group’s activities in the region since 2018.
Today, Škoda’s portfolio in India includes three modern, locally developed vehicles—the Kushaq, Slavia, and the newly launched Kylaq, a sub-4-metre SUV aimed at the country’s most competitive segment. The Kylaq is a strategic pillar in Škoda’s ambition to reach 100,000 annual vehicle sales in India by 2026.
A Commitment to Localization and Sustainability
Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto, emphasized the company’s commitment to the Indian market: “With 25 years of experience, India has become the cornerstone of our international growth strategy. It offers exceptional talent, rising consumer demand, and access to other key markets. Our locally developed and produced models—the Kushaq, Slavia, and Kylaq—boast up to 95% localization. Additionally, our customer reach has expanded by 35% in just two years, thanks to a growing dealer network. Sustainability is also central to our vision, with one plant fully powered by green energy and our Pune facility utilizing photovoltaic systems that generate 30% of its electricity.”
Driving Customer Trust and Market Expansion
Škoda’s journey in India began with the Octavia, which was initially assembled from imported parts in rented facilities. Over the years, models such as the Fabia, Rapid, Superb, and Kodiaq have strengthened Škoda’s reputation in the market. A defining moment came in 2018 when the Volkswagen Group entrusted Škoda with leading its Indian strategy. This included the development of the MQB-A0-IN platform, tailored specifically for Indian customers. The first model on this platform, the Kushaq, launched in 2021, followed by the Slavia sedan in 2022. The latest addition, the Kylaq, entered the highly competitive sub-4-metre SUV market and secured 10,000 orders within just ten days of its launch.
Škoda’s success has been reinforced by numerous accolades, including the Slavia’s recognition as ‘Sedan of the Year 2022’ and ‘Car of the Year 2023’ at the Acko Drive Awards.
Investing in the Future: Employment, Exports, and CO2-Neutrality Goals
India has grown into a strategic hub for Škoda, extending its reach to ASEAN, the Middle East, Australia, and New Zealand. In addition to its assembly lines in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Pune, the company has established a Technology Centre in Pune and a logistics facility to support exports to Vietnam, a market it entered in 2023.
Sustainability remains a top priority. Škoda aims for full CO2 neutrality across all Indian plants by 2030. The Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar facility already runs on 100% green energy, while Pune’s Chakan plant is on track to achieve the same. The 500-hectare Pune plant also serves as a habitat for over 300 species of flora and fauna. Moreover, Škoda actively collaborates with local suppliers and contributes to infrastructure development, education, and social initiatives.
As Škoda Auto embarks on its next chapter in India, the company’s deep-rooted commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction ensures a promising future. With its expanding footprint and increasing localization, Škoda is well-positioned to shape the next 25 years of automotive excellence in India.
