Skoda Auto Celebrates 25 Years in India: A Journey of Growth and Innovation
Skoda Auto, the Czech automaker under the Volkswagen Group, is celebrating a major milestone—25 years in the Indian market.
Since its entry in January 2000, the brand has built a strong presence, evolving from a niche premium carmaker to a major player in India's automotive landscape. With a combination of locally manufactured vehicles, strategic collaborations, and a deep understanding of Indian consumer preferences, Skoda has established itself as a key brand in the country’s automotive sector.
Skoda’s India journey began in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, where it set up its first manufacturing plant. However, before the plant was operational, the company started assembling its first offering—the Octavia sedan—from a rental space.
Launched in 2001, the Octavia was an instant hit, thanks to its robust build quality, engaging driving dynamics, and powerful engine options.
The success of the Octavia paved the way for several global models, including:
Superb (luxury sedan)
Laura (second-generation Octavia)
Fabia (premium hatchback)
Yeti (compact SUV)
Karoq and Kodiaq (modern SUVs)
With a growing customer base, Skoda expanded its operations and partnered with Volkswagen to set up a second manufacturing facility in Chakan, Pune. This facility played a crucial role in developing locally produced, India-focused models like the Rapid, and more recently, the Kushaq, Slavia, and Kylaq—vehicles that boast over 95% localisation.
Skoda’s presence in India is no longer just about selling cars locally; it has become a key hub for global expansion. The brand has used its India operations to enter markets like ASEAN, the Middle East, Australia, and New Zealand, exporting vehicles built in India to these regions.
Speaking about Skoda’s India journey, Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Skoda Auto, said:
"With 25 years of experience in India, we are leveraging this market as a cornerstone of our international growth. India’s talent, growing consumer demand, and access to global markets make it a critical part of our expansion strategy."
Since 2018, Skoda has been at the forefront of Volkswagen Group’s India operations, leading the ambitious India 2.0 project. This initiative resulted in the development of the MQB AO-IN platform, a heavily localised architecture that underpins five vehicles:
Kushaq, Slavia, Kylaq (Skoda)
Taigun, Virtus (Volkswagen)
The latest addition, the Kylaq compact SUV, is expected to significantly boost sales, with Skoda targeting 100,000 annual units by 2026.
As Skoda Auto celebrates its 25-year journey in India, the brand remains focused on delivering premium, high-quality vehicles tailored for Indian consumers. With an expanding lineup, a growing manufacturing footprint, and a strong export strategy, Skoda’s future in India looks more promising than ever.
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