Skoda India to Bring EVs as Limited Imports Next Year
Skoda Auto India plans to bring electric vehicles from its global portfolio to India in limited volumes next year.
Skoda Auto India plans to bring electric vehicles from its global portfolio to India in limited volumes next year. The company aims to establish its presence in the EV market, according to Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India.
Gupta stated that the company needs an electric vehicle in its portfolio not only to meet future regulatory requirements but also to remain relevant as EV adoption gathers pace in India. He attributed the need for an EV to the rising fuel prices, which have accelerated EV adoption in the country.
## Skoda India to Bring EVs: Additional Details
Gupta mentioned that the company is considering the launch of the Peaq flagship electric SUV in India. However, the company plans to introduce EVs from its global line-up early next year, which may not be locally manufactured.
The initial objective of bringing imported EVs to India is to demonstrate the brand's technology and capabilities rather than chase mass-market volumes. Gupta stated that the current duty structure makes it challenging to bring EVs at price points that will get volumes.
| Model | Launch Year | Price (approx.) | | --- | --- | --- | | Epiq | 2023 | $50,000 | | Peaq | 2023 | $60,000 | | Elroq | 2022 | $40,000 |
## Skoda India's Hybrid Ambitions Take a Slow Gear
Skoda's approach to hybrids appears less certain. Gupta stated that the company had previously viewed hybrids as a potentially stronger opportunity than EVs in India. However, market data over the past two years has changed his assessment.
Gupta mentioned that the tax structure has not helped hybrids, and they have stayed at 2% of the market. He is unsure whether hybrid is the right way to go, and the current trade and taxation structure also influences the company's hesitation.
Gupta stated that the India-EU Free Trade Agreement does not provide similar benefits for EVs and hybrid electric vehicles. He said that the brand's positioning in India is a bit above mass and below luxury, and the immediate priority is to get EVs into the country.
The company continues to assess which powertrains can deliver the right combination of regulatory compliance, customer demand, and commercial viability.
