Electric mobility has been the focus of the auto industry around the globe. Skoda Auto also plans for a green future. But reports suggest that the brand could be planning to manufacture its EVs in the Indian market soon. Skoda Auto is already spearheading the Volkswagen Group in the Indian market with investments of more than INR 8,000 crore. Now, Skoda could be gearing up to bring the Enyaq iV electric vehicle via the CBU (Completely Built-Up) route before the brand starts manufacturing the EV in the Indian market.
30% Electric Vehicles in the Portfolio
Reports reveal that Skoda and Volkswagen are planning for a 30% electric vehicle portfolio in India by the end of this decade. Thus making India a key market for electric vehicles. To achieve this the brand will focus on the localisation of parts in the Indian market. The heavy localisation of the EVs will also allow the brand to price them competitively in the Indian market. The localisation of electric cars will also enable the brand subsidies from the government which could be passed on to the customers.
Reduction of Import Duties on Electric Vehicles in India
Thomas Schaefer, CEO, Skoda Auto, India also demands that until electric vehicles are not localised in the Indian market, the import duties must be reduced. According to Schaefer, if electric vehicles are penalised by import duties, the development will come to a stop. Also, the Indian market will lose its connection with the world. For the same reason, Tesla Inc founder Elon Musk as well as other manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz are also of the same opinion.
Companies such as Mahindra and Mahindra, Tata Motors, Hyundai, Kia etc are also looking to scale up electric vehicle production in the country. However, timelines for each are currently unknown. The brand is also likely to work on electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the country.
Also Read: Skoda reveals interior sketches of Slavia sedan for India
