Skoda, the Czech carmaker, has initiated its operations in Vietnam. Its initial offerings in the Vietnamese market are the Kodiaq and Karoq SUVs, both of which are being introduced through the completely built-up (CBU) route. Skoda plans to introduce the made-in-India Kushaq SUV in 2024 for the Vietnamese market. During this announcement, Skoda Auto board member Martin Jahn also unveiled the company’s affordable electric vehicle (EV) aspirations for the Indian market.
Skoda Electric Vehicle Set to Enter India
Crucially, Skoda Auto India’s operations are playing a pivotal role in supporting its venture into Vietnam. The Chakan plant will serve as the source for upcoming vehicles destined for Vietnam and other markets within the ASEAN region. In addition to the recently launched Kodiaq and Karoq SUVs, Skoda has ambitious plans to introduce a range of vehicles, including the Superb, Slavia, and Octavia sedans, alongside the Kushaq SUV and the Enyaq electric SUV.
Asenior representative from Skoda mentioned the strategic importance of introducing an affordable electric vehicle (EV) in the Indian market at the same launch event. This anticipated budget-friendly Skoda EV is expected to take the form of an electric SUV, aligning with the growing popularity and demand for such vehicles in India. Martin Jahn, a Skoda Auto board member responsible for Sales and Marketing, revealed the company’s plans to first launch the premium Enyaq EV in India, followed by a more budget-friendly eSUV.
When referring to ‘affordable,’ Skoda aims to target the sub Rs. 20 lakh price range, directly competing with well-established EVs in India, such as the recently launched Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV400, and the upcoming Citroen eC3 Aircross.
Skoda is actively exploring potential partnerships, which may include localizing a modified version of Volkswagen’s renowned MEB platform. Alternatively, they may consider developing an entirely new electric platform in collaboration with a local Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). Martin Jahn indicated that the target price range for this new, affordable Skoda EV could fall between USD 15,000 to USD 20,000, which, at the current exchange rates, equates to approximately Rs. 12.5 lakh to Rs. 16.6 lakh. Given their prior associations, Mahindra appears to be a logical choice for partnership, considering their previous collaborations related to VW’s MEB platform and powertrains. Alongside Mahindra’s INGLO platform, Skoda may also explore similar options.
The company aims to develop a vehicle that strikes a balance between affordability and profitability. Given the price range mentioned by Martin Jahn, Skoda may explore the possibility of introducing an electric version within its current lineup as an entry-level EV. Likely candidates for this transformation could be the Kushaq and Slavia, both of which are built on the MQB A0 IN platform.
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