Skoda, a Czech automaker, just started doing business in Vietnam. The initial batch of products are the SUVs Kodiaq and Karoq, both of which are released under the CBU process. The Kushaq SUV, manufactured in India, will debut in 2024 for the Vietnamese market. Martin Jahn, a board member of Skoda Auto, disclosed India’s plans for a cost-effective EV on that occasion.
Skoda Auto India is important to its activities in Vietnam. Future automobiles will be supplied by the company’s Chakan facility to Vietnam or emerging ASEAN markets. Skoda plans to release the Superb, Slavia, and Octavia sedans as well as the Kushaq SUV and Enyaq eSUV in addition to the newly released Kodiaq and Karoq SUVs. A senior company representative noted that introducing an inexpensive EV in India might have strategic benefits on the same occasion.
The mentioned inexpensive EV is probably an eSUV given its popularity and demand. According to Skoda Auto board member for Sales and Marketing Martin Jahn, the business will first launch the Enyaq premium EV in India before moving on to a more reasonably priced eSUV. Skoda may be referring to a car priced under Rs. 20 lakh that competes with popular EVs in India in this range, including the newly released Tata Nexon.ev, Mahindra XUV400, and the impending Citroen eC3 Aircross.
The Czech company is already thinking about several different prospective alliances. An effort to localize a modified version of Volkswagen’s renowned MEB platform may be made. Having said that, collaboration with a regional OEM may result in the creation of an entirely new electric platform. According to Martin Jahn, the new Skoda cheap EV might cost between US$15,000 and US$20,000.
This price range equates to between Rs. 12.5 lakh and Rs. 16.6 lakh using the current exchange rates. Considering the prior agreements for VW’s MEB platform and powertrains, Mahindra might be the obvious partner candidate. In addition to the INGLO platform from Mahindra, Skoda may also acquire a similar arrangement.
Has Skoda begun to develop an electric Kushaq?
The business wants to create a vehicle that is both cost-effective and successful. With Martin Jahn’s anticipated pricing range in mind, it’s possible that Skoda would electrify its current lineup as its entry-level EV. The typical suspects are the MQB A0 IN-based Kushaq and Slavia automobiles. Skoda may be able to avoid all the expenses associated with designing and building a vehicle from the ground up by electrifying existing vehicles.
The efficiency of production and design also rises when more cars utilize the same sheet metal. Given the anticipated cost, a battery with a capacity of 40 to 45 kWh and a single-motor FWD layout would make sense. A 2025 launch is most likely.
