Skoda Auto India Powertrain Strategy for EV and CNG Expansion

Skoda Auto is assessing a multi-powertrain roadmap for India, covering electric vehicles and CNG, as it responds to tightening regulations, global uncertainty, and evolving customer demand. Martin Jahn, board member for sales and marketing at Skoda Auto, said the company recognises the need to expand its Indian portfolio while navigating a rapidly shifting automotive environment.
He noted that while additional products are essential for India, the pace and direction of global transformation have complicated long-term decisions. “For the future, we need more products. But the world is now very volatile and we are observing the transformation to electric, because China is very strong and keep pushing. The US made a complete turnaround, going away. Europe slowing down a little bit. So now, we know that we need an electric portfolio for India," he said.
Skoda Auto India Powertrain Strategy Still Under Evaluation
Despite acknowledging the need for electrification, Jahn clarified that Skoda has not finalised the exact path forward for India. “We are still finding and looking for the best solution. So I cannot give you an answer today, but we all know that we need more products and we are working on it," he said, highlighting the cautious approach being taken.
CAFE III Norms Accelerate Powertrain Decisions
Upcoming CAFE III emission regulations are increasing pressure on automakers to adopt cleaner technologies or face penalties. Jahn stressed that timing and market alignment remain critical. “Of course, we need to find this right solution at the right time. The focus remains on offering products that align with Indian customer expectations in terms of size, design, and features," he said, adding that Kylaq was positioned correctly in its segment.
Partnerships Remain an Open Option
On future development models, Skoda has not ruled out collaboration. Jahn said, “The question is whether we do it alone or with a partner. Everything has pros and cons. But we're open and flexible and we are looking for the best solution because the world is so volatile, maybe sometimes it's better to calm down and take a moment before you make a decision."
He added that Skoda is dealing with challenges across multiple regions. “We have challenges everywhere. We have challenges in China as well. We have challenges in Europe. We have challenges in India. It's just a question of prioritizing and deciding," he said, noting that trade discussions between India and Europe are also being closely monitored.
Dealer Network and After-Sales Remain Key Focus Areas
Despite external pressures, Skoda reported its strongest performance in India to date. “We are now really enjoying the moment. We just doubled the sales last year, which is not easy for any brand," Jahn said, underlining the momentum the company has achieved.
Improving customer perception remains a priority. “ŠKODA had an image of having too expensive after sales, which is not the case anymore. Improving service quality and brand loyalty is a key priority," he adds. The company expects upcoming model lines to support further growth in volumes and market share.
MQB Platform Upgrades and Hybrid Feasibility
Skoda plans to continue enhancing vehicles built on the MQB platform with India-specific features. “There will be product enhancements. There are some important features that we need to bring to the Indian market. So MQB still provides a space for product improvement which we will bring," Jahn said. However, he confirmed that hybrid systems are not compatible with the MQB-A0-IN architecture.
Globally, Skoda is developing a wide spectrum of hybrid and electric technologies, but affordability remains a constraint for India. “Globally, we are developing a full range of vehicles, mild hybrids, hybrids, plug-in hybrids, full electric vehicles. Sometimes the best technology comes also with the highest cost. So we have to evaluate that. And also for India we have to evaluate everything on the price sensitivity of the market," he said.
At present, Skoda’s India portfolio remains petrol-only, but alternative fuels are actively being reviewed. “As I said, we are looking at everything. So, CNG I think is a possibility," Jahn said.