Tag: Skoda

Exclusive: Skoda auto board member happy with developments in India

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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After seeing good demand for Kushaq and Slavia, Czech car maker Skoda continues to be bullish about the Indian market. Over the last two years, Skoda recorded sales of over 1,00,000 units; while earlier it took the company six years to achieve the same.

The auto maker will be entering the compact SUV segment and will be launching a made and designed in India product in 2025.

Speaking exclusively to CNBC-TV18, Martin Jahn, Member of the Board of Management for Sales & Marketing at Skoda Auto a.s, expressed his satisfaction with the company’s progress in India.

Jahn stated, “We are pleased with our developments in India. Kushaq and Slavia have contributed to over 100,000 sales in the last two years, whereas previously, it took us six years to achieve that. We are preparing to introduce our third product, a compact SUV made in India specifically for the Indian market. The sub-4-metre segment is crucial in India, and we are confident that we will achieve 100,000 sales in 2026.”

Also read: Skoda Auto’s first-ever compact SUV to hit Indian roads by 2025; targets 100,000 annual sales by 2026

The company aims to double its sales and touchpoints in India. Currently, Skoda exports Slavia and Kushaq, manufactured in Pune, to the Gulf region, North Africa, and other parts. However, for the upcoming compact SUV, the company currently has no plans for exports.

Jahn explained, “Exporting the third product will be challenging as we need to figure out the economics. In India, the sub-4-metre segment is supported by the government, which is not the case in other countries. For exports of our compact SUV, we will have to evaluate the local markets.”

Skoda is also set to launch its premium electric car, Enyaq, by the end of 2024 or early 2025. The EV will be introduced to India in a completely built-up (CBU) format.

Jahn emphasised Skoda’s plans for its EV journey in India, saying, “Enyaq is extremely successful in Europe. We will bring it to India in CBU format to showcase our technology. We are also exploring ways to enter the volume segment in EVs and are assessing the right car and setup for the Indian market. We need to explore the right car at the right cost.”

Regarding further investments and targets in India, Jahn mentioned, “We made a commitment to India by investing in the Pune plant. The upcoming compact SUV will help us utilise the capacity at the Pune plant. For EVs, we are exploring options, and it is too early to talk about investments. We are committed to India, aiming to have a 5% market share by 2030. We will strongly participate in electrification in India.”

Addressing reports about VW Group’s plans to dilute its stake in the local subsidiary Skoda Auto Volkswagen India (SAVIPL) for electrification, Jahn commented, “I cannot provide any comments on this speculation. The group has a tie-up with M&M for components, which is a different story altogether. We are exploring options to bring EVs to India, and we are evaluating which product would be suitable for the Indian market.”

On the India and European Union free trade agreement, Jahn stated, “India and EU FTA talks are in the early stages of negotiations. We will look for the best ways to bring more products. It is too early to comment on FTA, but we are hopeful that it will benefit us.”

Discussing challenges for Skoda Auto in India, Jahn added, “Profitability is a challenge in India due to the highly competitive market. The low price level is always a challenge for foreign car makers in India. However, we are making good progress, and achieving big volumes will help us in utilizing our capacity. Skoda’s immediate challenge is to enter new territories. With the launch of the compact SUV, we will expand to tier 3 and 4 cities and need to learn about these customers.”

Jahn also highlighted, “Cost and the growth of dealerships are major hurdles as of now. We have to expand the dealer network quickly as we are doubling our sales. We are growing fast in India, and we are quite happy with the start.”

While global electric vehicle players like Vinfast and Tesla seek duty cuts from 100% to 15% until they can begin manufacturing, Skoda Auto holds a different perspective. Jahn believes that the Indian government must choose a path to support e-mobility in the country.

He explained, “E-mobility development depends on government policy, just like in any other part of the world. While import is one way, for us, local production will be the main way. India is a big and specific market, and we are figuring out which will be the perfect product. The way we are committed to ICE vehicle production, the same way is good for EVs.”

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Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Auto This Week: BMW X1 sDrive18i M Sport, Ducati Monster SP launched in India and more

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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From the launch of sleek and stylish BMW X1 sDrive18i M Sport to the track-focused Ducati Monster SP’s entry in the Indian market, there’s something for every auto enthusiast this week. Skoda Auto India has launched the updated Kodiaq, while Renault India has given the Kiger RXT(O) model a facelift. Finally, Citroen India has released a new turbo-petrol variant of the Citroen C3.

BMW X1 sDrive18i M Sport

BMW India has unveiled a new variant of its X1 sports activity vehicle, the X1 sDrive18i M Sport, which is locally produced in Chennai and priced at Rs 48.9 lakh (ex-showroom). The SUV is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 148 bhp of power and 220 Nm torque, paired with an automatic seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The X1 sDrive18i M Sport boasts LED headlights, LED fog lights, a panoramic sunroof, and an M Aerodynamics package. The interior features a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and sports seats. Safety features include six airbags, ABS, ESC, traction control, and hill start assist.

Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Auto India has launched the 2023 Kodiaq, its flagship SUV model, in India. The spacious SUV has a seating capacity of up to 7 individuals and comes in three variants: Style, Sportline, and L&K. The Kodiaq has been revamped to adhere to the latest BS6 Stage 2 emission standards and now boasts a powerful 2.0-litre TSI EVO turbo-petrol engine, capable of churning out 187 bhp and 320 Nm of torque. The Kodiaq features a 4×4 system, 6 driving modes, door-edge protectors, a rear spoiler, lounge step, outer headrests, progressive steering, Dynamic Chassis Control, adjustable suspension, ambient lighting, and a powerful Canton 625W 12-speaker audio system with subwoofer.

Ducati Monster SP

Ducati has recently unveiled the Monster SP in India, a high-performance motorcycle designed to provide an adrenaline-filled track-focused experience. The Monster SP is priced at Rs 15.95 lakh ex-showroom, India and is the flagship model that boasts a Testastretta 11-degree engine delivering a thrilling peak power of 111 hp at 9,250 rpm and a peak torque of 93 Nm at 6,500 rpm. It also features fully adjustable Ohlins suspension, a Termignoni silencer, and a 4.3-inch colour TFT instrument cluster. The Monster SP also boasts advanced safety features such as Cornering ABS with three levels, three riding modes, and eight levels of DTC. At 186 kg, the Monster SP is 2 kg lighter than the standard version, making it even more agile and suitable for track-focused riding.

Renault Renault Kiger RXT(O) model: Updated

Renault India has updated its Renault Kiger RXT(O) model with several new features including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless smartphone mirroring, 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, and LED headlamps and tail lights. The revamped model also includes standard safety features like Electronic Stability Program, Hill Start Assist, Traction Control System, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, four airbags, seat belts with pre-tensioners, and ISOFIX. The new variant is priced at Rs 7.99 lakh (ex-showroom).

Citroen C3 turbo-petrol variant

Citroen India has upped the ante in the Indian auto market with the launch of its new turbo-petrol variant of the Citroen C3, featuring a powerful Puretech 110 Turbo engine and advanced safety features such as ESP, hill hold, and TPMS. With a starting price of just Rs 8.28 lakh (ex-showroom), this fuel-efficient hatchback is a steal for new car buyers looking for both performance and affordability. Plus, its sleek design and sleek electrically adjustable ORVMs, rear parking camera, and 15-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels make it a stylish addition to any garage.

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Auto This Week: Audi, Skoda open bookings; Maruti, Tata step on the gas

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Here are the biggest headlines from the world of auto in the past week that you need to catch up on.

Maruti Suzuki aims to manufacture 20 lakh cars

The country’s biggest automaker Maruti Suzuki will increase its production to manufacture 20 lakh vehicles in the current fiscal year, according to company Chairman R.C. Bhargava. Maruti Suzuki has upped its manufacturing capabilities as semiconductor supplies have been easing.

 Tata Motors buys Ford’s Sanand plant

Tata Motors acquired Ford India’s Sanand plant for Rs 725.7 crore in a deal covering land, machinery and all “eligible employees.” The acquisition of the facility will help Tata Motors increase its annual manufacturing capacity by three lakh units, which would further be scalable up to 4.2 lakh units per year.

Skoda reopens bookings for Kodiaq

Czech automobile manufacturer Skoda announced that it has opened bookings of its SUV Kodiaq, with deliveries scheduled in January-March next year. The SUV is priced at Rs 37.49 lakh, Rs 38.49 lakh and Rs 39.99 lakh across its three variants.

Hyundai all-new Tucson launch in India

Hyundai launched its all-new Tucson in India on August 10. The 2022 Tucson will enter the fourth generation in India and the company has opened pre-bookings for the new SUV at a token amount of Rs 50,000, with a market price of Rs 27.69 lakh (ex-showroom).

Audi Q3 opens for bookings 

Audi has commenced bookings for the new Q3 against a token amount of Rs 2 lakh. This marks the first time that the luxury brand has introduced the Q3 SUV, and the company is expanding its portfolio in the country over strong sales.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Skoda reopens bookings for Kodiaq, deliveries in 2023

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Skoda Auto India on Wednesday said it has again commenced the bookings of its SUV Kodiaq, with deliveries scheduled in January-March next year. The company had earlier opened the bookings for the model in January this year.

Prices start at Rs 37.49 lakh and will be applicable for the January-March quarter of 2023, the Czech automaker said in a statement. The booking amount is Rs 50,000, and the SUV can only be booked across the company’s dealerships across the country, it added.

The three Kodiaq trims are tagged at Rs 37.49 lakh, Rs 38.49 lakh and Rs 39.99 lakh, respectively. “We are opening bookings for Q1 2023 and will announce phase-wise booking windows for the rest of the 2023 volumes,” Skoda Auto India Brand Director Zac Hollis stated.

Also Read: Teaser: New MG Hector facelift sports diamond mesh grille — Check pictures

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Skoda launches all-new Kodiaq in India; check price, features

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Czech automaker Skoda on Monday launched the new version of its premium SUV Kodiaq in the country, priced between Rs 34.99 lakh and Rs 37.49 lakh (ex-showroom). The new Kodiaq comes equipped with a 2-litre petrol engine mated to a seven-speed transmission sending power to all four wheels.

The company said the all-new version of the seven-seater model, which comes with various luxury features, can accelerate to 100kph in just 7.8 seconds. The three trims Style, SportLine and Laurin & Klement variants of the model are tagged at Rs 34.99 lakh, Rs 35.99 lakh and Rs 37.49 lakh, respectively.

“Kodiaq has a rich, international legacy of being a pioneering model of our SUV campaign. In India, as in with the other markets where the KODIAQ is present, the SUV has stood out for the ample space on offer, comprehensive range of equipment and its excellent value-for-money proposition,” Skoda Auto India Brand Director Zac Hollis said in a statement.

Also Read | Volvo Car reports 27% jump in retail sales in 2021

With the all-new Kodiaq, the company has built on the design aesthetic, comfort, engine and dynamic capabilities, along with thoughtful additions in the cabin, he added. “With several segment leading features and uncompromising safety, Kodiaq is a complete luxury package for the family, whether it is everyday driving or off-road adventures,” Hollis stated.

In terms of safety, the model comes with nine airbags, adaptive front headlights, defogging across all transparent surfaces, electronic, mechanical and hydraulic brake assist, stability control, multi-collision braking and park assist with handsfree parking among others. In addition, the flagship L&K trim comes with hill descent control and a 360-degree camera as standard.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Volkswagen’s Taigun set for launch this month, to take on Creta, Kushaq; check details

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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German carmaker Volkswagen’s latest offering Taigun could be its biggest release of 2021 here. The company plans to launch it in India this month. The Taigun is expected to be priced at Rs 10.50 lakh to 17 lakh (ex-showroom).

The compact SUV will be competing with the likes of Skoda Kushaq, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Harrier, MG Hector and others. The Kushaq was launched just a little over a month back in June and has garnered a positive response from the Indian market.

A production spec of the Taigun in March showed it is built on the same platform as the Kushaq. Taigun comes with a Volkswagen slatted grille at the front along with an LED-head light with LED DRL lights on each side. The fog lights come with a chrome casing. The top-end model comes with round wheel arches that are large in size and cover the 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels.

It is also expected to be packed with features like chrome door handles, silver roof rails and blacked-out B-pillars. As per the carmaker, the Taigun will have a wheelbase measuring 2,651 mm.

In terms of interior, the Taigun will come with a dual-tone finish coupled with a massive 10.1-inch main infotainment screen along with a 10.2-inch digital instrument system. In addition to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the other top features include ambient lighting, ventilated front seats and a sunroof.

Volkswagen has packed a slew of safety features in this SUV. The Taigun will come with as many as six airbags for enhanced safety in addition to other features like anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), electronic stability control, tyre-pressure monitoring system and traction control.

Just like the Kushaq, there is no diesel variant for the Taigun either. This vehicle will come in 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged (petrol) and 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbo (petrol).  The former will have 113 hp and 175 Nm of torque, while the latter will have 148 hp and offer 250 Nm of torque.

Both the variants will be equipped with a standard six-speed manual gearbox. The 1.0-litre variant will have a six-speed torque converter and the 1.5 -litre variant will come with a 7-speed DCT automatic option.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow