Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Pvt Ltd (SAVWIPL) has officially commenced production of the Skoda Kylaq SUV at its advanced manufacturing facility in Chakan, Pune. Locally engineered and built, the Skoda Kylaq is the fifth model from the group to be constructed on the MQB-A0-IN platform, ensuring high levels of localization. The SUV is designed with a focus on safety, comfort, quality, and global appeal. To further strengthen its production efficiency, SAVWIPL has increased its local supplier base by 10%, aiming to enhance turnaround time and reduce ownership costs.
Piyush Arora, Managing Director and CEO of Skoda Auto Volkswagen India, expressed excitement over the launch of the brand’s first sub-4-meter SUV in India. He highlighted that the Kylaq, designed and developed to meet the needs of Indian customers, is a proud contribution to the Make-in-India initiative. Arora also noted the positive reception the vehicle received during its World Premiere and expressed confidence that it would resonate well with Indian car buyers.
As part of its expansion efforts, SAVWIPL has boosted the Chakan plant’s annual production capacity by 30% to 255,000 units, with the addition of the Kylaq. Production lines now operate at a rate of 40 jobs per hour, significantly improving operational efficiency. The Kylaq also reflects the group’s commitment to sustainable manufacturing, incorporating eco-friendly materials such as bamboo fiber in its cabin.
Andreas Dick, Member of the Board of Management of Škoda Auto for Production and Logistics, praised the successful launch, acknowledging the collaborative efforts between teams in India and the Czech Republic. He emphasized that meticulous planning and advanced manufacturing processes were key to meeting the high standards of quality and efficiency.
To support the growing customer base, SAVWIPL is rapidly expanding its sales and service network across India, with plans to reach 350 locations in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities by 2025. The Skoda Kylaq, priced competitively starting at ₹7,89,000 (ex-showroom), enters the compact SUV market, which represented 49% of the total utility vehicle segment from April to November 2024. Deliveries are expected to begin in January 2025.
Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited, headquartered in Pune, oversees the Indian operations of five renowned automotive brands: Škoda, Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, and Lamborghini. With a legacy of over two decades, the company offers an extensive portfolio of BEV and ICE vehicles, supported by advanced manufacturing facilities in Chakan, Pune, and Shendra, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Recognized as a ‘Great Place to Work,’ a ‘Top Employer,’ and one of HR Asia’s ‘Best Companies to Work for in Asia’ in 2023, Škoda Auto Volkswagen India is committed to driving innovation, fostering a balanced work culture, and shaping the future of mobility with excellence.
