Skoda could be planning to launch hybrid cars in the Indian market. The Czech brand is likely to introduce mild hybrid cars in the affordable price bracket and in addition to this, also strong hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars as well. The company already has its plug-in hybrid version in the international markets, and India could see the plug-in hybrid version as soon as 2027-28. However, reports reveal that the brand could currently be looking at the cost factor which is an added challenge especially in the price-sensitive Indian market.
Skoda Plug-in Hybrid
While Skoda has not been retailing any hybrid vehicles in the Indian market, the recently revealed Skoda Octavia features a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with a 48V mild hybrid system with a 7-speed dual clutch gearbox. The TSI engine with a 25.7 kWh battery with 204 Hp output but obviously does not have only-electric drive. In the international markets, the plug-in hybrid version can traverse up to 100 km on battery power. This places the plug-in hybrid model in the sweet spot between ICE and BEV.
Partners in India?
Reports also reveal that Volkswagen is looking for the right partner in India. The brand has already partnered with Mahindra for the supply of electrical components. In addition to this, Volkswagen Group is also building three giga factories in China, Spain and Germany and the potential partner in India could gain significant expertise in battery cell manufacturing in the future.
MQB AO 37 Platform
Furthermore, the brand is also loking at the feasibility of the MQB AO 37 platform for the Indian market. This platform will be capable of accommodating a battery pack for a petrol-hybrid powertrain. If the brand brings the MQB AO 37 to India the car based on the platform are likely to be larger than the Slavia and Kushaq. They are also likely to be capable of having advanced electrical architecture, which leads us to believe that they will be feature rich.
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