KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- New Skoda EV in development specifically for the Indian market
- Based on the CMP 21 platform being adapted for local conditions
- Epiq EV not coming to India; Confirmed
Skoda Auto's global CEO, Klaus Zellmer, has confirmed that the company is actively working on a new, affordable electric vehicle designed specifically for the Indian market. Speaking at an event to a media house, Zellmer revealed that the upcoming EV will be built on a localized platform to meet the unique needs of Indian buyers. Read on to find out more details about Skoda's upcoming plan in the electric space, but before that, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community, specifically curated for petrolheads like us to keep up with the latest news and automotive updates.
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New Skoda EV: India-Specific EV Platform In Works
The upcoming Skoda EV electric vehicle will be based on the CMP 21 platform, which has been adapted for India from its original development in China. This localized platform will form the foundation for future EVs not just from Skoda, but also Volkswagen, allowing both brands to strengthen their presence in the country's growing EV space.
"The game plan for battery EVs in India will really take off once we have localized the CMP 21 platform. This will serve as a base for Skoda as well as Volkswagen to develop a family of EVs specifically for India," Zellmer explained. He also hinted that Skoda may bring in an additional small battery EV to diversify the lineup further.
Skoda's India Growth Strategy
Over the past five years, Skoda Auto has steadily expanded its Indian operations, backed by its India 2.0 strategy, into which the company invested 1 billion euros. This program led to the development of models like the Kushaq and Slavia, which boosted sales and improved the brand's visibility in India. Skoda also strengthened its after-sales network and dealer footprint, helping it maintain a premium brand image despite challenges such as volatile demand and stiff competition.
Recently, Skoda showcased several EVs that underline its ambitions in the global market. Among them was the near-production Epiq EV, which will target affordable family mobility in Europe. However, Zellmer clarified that the Epiq EV will not be launched in India, as it is not part of Skoda's localized India strategy.
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Why India Matters
Zellmer emphasized that India has become a critical second hub for Skoda outside Europe, particularly as the brand looks to diversify beyond its dependence on the European market. With geopolitical uncertainties and economic shifts in play, the company views India as a stable and strategic base for future growth. "To depend only on one region is no longer sustainable. Many global players learned this the hard way with China. India provides us with an opportunity to create a reliable second leg for our operations," Zellmer said.
Verdict
With India emerging as a critical growth hub for global automakers, Skoda's decision to localise an affordable EV platform signals its long-term commitment to the market. By focusing on cost competitiveness, deeper localisation, and feature-rich electric mobility solutions, the brand is positioning itself to take on rivals in the rapidly expanding Indian EV space. If executed well, Skoda's upcoming made-for-India EV could prove to be a game-changer, offering customers a balance of European engineering and affordability.
