Skoda India EV: A Game-Changing Electric Vehicle Set for 2028 Launch

Skoda Auto India is gearing up to revolutionize the Indian automotive landscape with its first locally manufactured electric vehicle, the Skoda India EV, slated for release by March 2028. As the demand for sustainable mobility surges, this strategic move positions Skoda to capture a significant share of India’s growing electric vehicle market. With a focus on affordability, localization, and cutting-edge technology, the Skoda India EV promises to redefine eco-friendly driving in the country.

A Strategic Leap Toward Electrification

The Skoda India EV is a cornerstone of Skoda’s ambitious electrification roadmap, aligning with India’s push for greener transportation. The company, a key player under the Volkswagen Group, is investing ₹15,000 crore to upgrade its Chakan plant in Pune to produce electric and hybrid vehicles. This investment underscores Skoda’s commitment to local manufacturing, which will reduce costs and make the Skoda India EV competitively priced in a market dominated by internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

Also Read-Hyundai Venue GST Rate Slashed: New Prices & Old vs New Comparison Tentative, Sep 2025

By launching the Skoda India EV, Skoda aims to leverage India’s evolving EV ecosystem, including government incentives and an expanding charging infrastructure. With EV penetration in India currently at 10-12%, Skoda’s timing for the 2027-28 launch is strategic, as infrastructure is expected to mature significantly by then. This positions the Skoda India EV to meet the needs of urban and semi-urban consumers seeking sustainable yet practical mobility solutions.

What to Expect from the Skoda India EV

While Skoda has kept specific details under wraps, the Skoda India EV is expected to be a compact or midsize SUV, possibly an electrified version of the popular Kylaq model. Built on a localized version of Volkswagen’s MEB platform or a new India-specific architecture, the Skoda India EV will prioritize range, performance, and affordability. Industry experts predict a battery capacity of 60-80 kWh, offering a range of 400-500 km (WLTP), making it a strong contender against rivals like the Tata Nexon EV and MG ZS EV.

The Skoda India EV will likely feature premium amenities tailored for Indian consumers, including Level 2 ADAS, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, and a 13-inch infotainment screen. Skoda’s focus on Indian road conditions ensures the Skoda India EV will be rugged yet refined, with suspension tuning optimized for diverse terrains and climates. Priced between ₹25-35 lakh (ex-showroom), the vehicle aims to balance premium features with mass-market appeal through localization.

Localization: The Heart of Skoda’s Strategy

Localization is the driving force behind the Skoda EV. By producing critical components like batteries and electronics locally, Skoda aims to reduce dependency on imports, which attract high duties. The upgraded Chakan facility will serve as the production hub, with an initial capacity of 20,000-30,000 units annually. This move not only lowers costs but also supports India’s “Make in India” initiative, potentially enabling exports to ASEAN markets.

Skoda’s focus on localization for the Skoda India EV extends to building a robust supplier ecosystem. By collaborating with local vendors, the company ensures cost-effective sourcing while maintaining global quality standards. This approach will make the Skoda India EV a benchmark for affordable electric mobility in India, appealing to cost-conscious buyers without compromising on quality or performance.

Also Read-Hyundai Aura SX Variant Hits Indian Market at Rs. 8.24 Lakh with Premium Upgrades

Skoda’s Broader Electrification Vision

The Skoda India EV is part of a three-phase electrification plan. The first phase involves importing global EV models like the Enyaq or Elroq by September 2025. The second phase, marked by the Skoda India EV launch in 2028, focuses on localized assembly. The third phase, by 2030, will see a fully India-developed EV tailored to local preferences. This roadmap reflects Skoda’s long-term commitment to India’s green mobility goals.

In addition to the Skoda India EV, Skoda plans to introduce strong-hybrid SUVs and sedans by 2028, built on the new IMP21 platform. These hybrids will comply with India’s stringent CAFE 3 norms, further diversifying Skoda’s eco-friendly portfolio. With a current market share of 1.7% (driven by models like the Kushaq and Slavia), Skoda aims to boost this to 5-7% by 2030, with the Skoda India EV playing a pivotal role.

Expanding Reach and Infrastructure

To support the Skoda India EV launch, Skoda is expanding its customer network from 315 to 350 touchpoints by the end of 2025, focusing on Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. This ensures accessibility for a wider audience, particularly in regions where EV adoption is gaining traction. Skoda is also collaborating with charging infrastructure providers to address range anxiety, a key concern for Indian consumers.

The company’s sales performance provides a strong foundation for the Skoda EV. With 53,000 units sold between January and September 2025, Skoda is poised for growth as EVs become mainstream. The Skoda India EV will cater to environmentally conscious buyers while maintaining the brand’s reputation for quality and innovation.

Also Read-VinFast’s Enters India with VF6 and VF7 Electric SUVs: Prices, Specs, and Features

Competitive Landscape and Future Outlook

The Skoda India EV enters a competitive market, facing established players like Tata Motors and emerging contenders like MG and BYD. However, Skoda’s focus on localization, premium features, and brand reliability gives it an edge. By 2028, India’s EV market is projected to grow significantly, driven by government policies and consumer demand for sustainable vehicles. The Skoda EV is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, offering a compelling blend of technology, affordability, and style.

As Skoda prepares for this landmark launch, the SkodaEV represents more than just a vehicle—it’s a statement of intent. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and local relevance, Skoda is set to redefine electric mobility in India, paving the way for a greener future.

For the latest updates on the Skoda India EV, visit Skoda India’s official website or follow industry news for insights from company executives.