Czech automotive manufacturer Skoda is set to enrich its Indian product line by bringing in more of its renowned global models. The company, whose current Indian vehicle range spans from approximately Rs 7 lakh to over Rs 40 lakh, has stated that its electric car ambitions for India are presently deferred. This initiative is designed to appeal to a wider and more diverse customer base across the nation.
“For the next year, the basic portfolio, which is the locally produced cars, remains the same. However, to excite the market, as we did with the Octavia this year, we are also planning to get some more global, iconic cars into India next year,” revealed a brand director. The company aims to generate market excitement with these imported icons, following the positive reception of the Octavia. Skoda’s current Indian offerings include locally manufactured Kylaq, Kushaq, and Slavia, alongside imported models like the Octavia and Kodiaq.
Skoda India is witnessing unprecedented success this year, with sales reaching 61,607 units from January to October, surpassing the 2022 record. The company is focused on sustaining its 2% market share in the Indian passenger vehicle sector. The strong sales performance is expected to continue beyond the festive season. Future plans include expanding the Kylaq range with new variants and updating the Kushaq and Slavia models to maintain their market competitiveness.
Addressing the electric vehicle (EV) front, Skoda acknowledged the complexities of the Indian market. Fluctuations in policy and trade discussions have created an environment where establishing a concrete EV launch plan is proving difficult. While the company possesses a substantial global EV lineup, the immediate introduction to India is not feasible. Nonetheless, Skoda remains committed to electrification, recognizing it as the future of the automotive industry, and is actively planning for its eventual entry into the Indian EV space, albeit with a potentially adjusted timeline.