- By Divanshi Sharma
- Fri, 01 Mar 2024 11:28 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Czech automobile manufacturer Skoda Auto is gearing up to enter the mass-market electric car segment in India, with plans to introduce its premium electric SUV Enyaq. Martin Jahn, a member of the management board, disclosed that the automaker is exploring partnerships with local companies to achieve economies of scale. Initially, Skoda plans to launch its EV models as Completely Built Unit (CBU) and later transition to assembling them locally.
In addition to electric models, Skoda has also announced plans to launch a compact SUV in India to compete with popular models like Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, and Kia Sonet. Considering the growing demand for compact SUVs and the practicality of a compact electric SUV, it is likely that Skoda might introduce an all-electric variant of the upcoming SUV, sharing its platform with the Skoda Kushaq.
Jahn emphasised that Skoda is considering all options for its electric vehicle (EV) plans in India and aims to be a part of the country's EV market growth. Speaking about this, Jahn said that, “We are exploring all the options. I am not at liberty to give you any details on this because no decision has been made. We are looking at everything we want to bring to India, how and when we are going to do it, we do not know yet. We are looking at the options that would be the best for India. But we of course want to participate in the growth of the electric (vehicle) market in India." He further added that clarity in government policies is crucial for planning the company's electric mobility roadmap. Skoda's parent company, Volkswagen Group, recently signed an agreement with Mahindra & Mahindra for the supply of electric vehicle components, highlighting the company's commitment to electric mobility.
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In Europe, Skoda aims to have between 50 per cent to 70 per cent of its portfolio as electric vehicles by 2030, assuming Europe transitions to fully electric by 2035. However, Jahn noted that the contribution of electric vehicles to Skoda's total retail numbers in India remains uncertain and will depend on various factors.