Volkswagen is counting on its alliance with Skoda for developing India-specific cars.
German carmaker Volkswagen has entrusted Skoda to manufacture cars specifically for the Indian market. The Pune R&D team has already commenced work and evaluations are underway to determine the correct solutions for India. However, the launch timeline for the first product from this joint project is unknown yet.
The Czech carmaker was recently bestowed with the responsibility to develop cost-effective products for emerging markets. Volkswagen India’s Sales Director, Stefen Knapp said: “Let us give Skoda lead in developing these products in a clear alliance with Volkswagen, to make sure core brand values are met with development.”
Meanwhile, the Polo maker is planning to design, develop and engineer a low-cost version of its familiar MQB architecture. The new platform is expected to be ready by 2020 when BS6 emissions are implemented and could underpin the next-generation Polo, Ameo and Vento.
The Eco-car platform which Volkswagen is also readying will manufacture a premium hatchback for Skoda and a crossover or SUV for both Skoda and Volkswagen.
Volkswagen Entrusts Skoda
– Volkswagen has accorded Skoda to develop cost-effective products for emerging markets
– The company feels their cars are over-engineered for Indian quality standards
– The automaker intends to double its market share to 3 percent in the next 5 years
Source – ETAuto.com