With The India 2.5 Project, Skoda Is Considering A New Modular Platform
Czech Automobile manufacturer Skoda India has started exploring a new modular platform for India. It could likely sit above the existing MQB A0 IN architecture that underpins the Kushaq and Slavia.
A media report claims that Skoda plans to launch the MQB A0 37 platform as part of the India 2.5 initiative. It will be localized and adjusted for developing markets like South America and India to make it more affordable. The new MQB A0 37 platform may see the light of day for India only after the India 2.5 project is ready.
In addition to supporting larger vehicles with various body styles, the new MQB A0 37 platform for India is anticipated to handle petrol-hybrid powertrains, which are progressively gaining traction as a substitute for diesel powertrains. Additionally, the larger lineup supported by the MQB A0 37 architecture will be exported to several emerging markets, similar to the MQB A0 IN-based models.
Global CEO of Skoda Auto Klaus Zellmer stated, "We need to speed up and the challenge is that we have to decide on a new platform beyond the current platform that we use for Kushaq and Slavia," in a recent interview with Autocar Professional. Maintaining projects and developing competencies will be essential."
Skoda Auto Volkswagen India is almost finished completing its next phase of investment, with a sum of Euro 1 billion for the India 2.0 project. It is anticipated that several projects or platforms will be launched in order to support the continuation of the product-led momentum over the next ten years.
The group will switch to a twin-track approach, with Skoda continuing to invest in internal combustion engine vehicle (ICE) architecture and the parent brand Volkswagen focusing on EV architecture for the Indian market. This is in contrast to the previous parallel track approach, where Skoda and VW had products in similar segments of the market (like Kushaq and Taigun, Slavia, and Virtus).
Furthermore, Volkswagen intends to localize the MEB21G electric vehicle architecture. The first electric vehicle is expected to go on sale in 2026, but it will be sold under the Volkswagen name. Skoda Auto has decided to produce the EV on its own.