Latest news with #ŠkodaAuto
Hindustan Times
04-07-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Skoda Auto crosses major milestone, rolls out 500,000th car in India
Skoda Kylaq is the latest launch from the brand. It goes up against sub-compact SUVs like Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet and Mahindra XUV 3XO. Check Offers Škoda Auto Volkswagen India has announced a key manufacturing milestone with the rollout of its 500,000th car produced in India. This significant achievement comes over two decades after the Czech carmaker began its local production journey in 2001 with the Octavia model at its Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (formerly Aurangabad) plant. The half-a-million mark reflects not just growing customer demand but also Škoda Auto Volkswagen India's steady integration of global manufacturing standards with Indian operations. Production is currently carried out across two major facilities in Pune and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, with roughly 70 per cent of the vehicles assembled in Pune. Škoda's journey in India has been marked by the introduction of several key models, ranging from early favourites like the Octavia and Laura to more recent offerings such as the Kushaq and Slavia. These vehicles have catered to a wide spectrum of Indian buyers and have contributed to Škoda's expansion into a more accessible and locally relevant portfolio. Watch: Skoda Kylaq review | Practical, no-nonsense 'baby Kushaq' | Should you buy the Nexon, Brezza rival? Beyond serving the domestic market, Škoda's Indian manufacturing is also playing an increasingly important role in its international strategy. Components and parts manufactured in India are now being used to assemble cars in Vietnam, including models like the Kushaq and Slavia. This development aligns with India's broader objective of becoming a global manufacturing hub under the "Make in India" initiative. According to Andreas Dick, Škoda Auto's Board Member for Production and Logistics, this milestone is not only about the volume but about building a responsive, scalable ecosystem that supports international quality benchmarks. He noted the importance of combining global processes with Indian engineering talent to meet evolving market demands. Škoda Auto Volkswagen India CEO and Managing Director Piyush Arora emphasized the emotional significance of the achievement, viewing the 500,000 units as not just products but meaningful customer connections. He highlighted the company's ongoing efforts to deliver vehicles with a focus on quality, safety, and engineering precision. Also Read : Skoda Octavia RS spotted in India for the first time. Here's when it will arrive This milestone also comes at a symbolic time, as Škoda Auto marks its 130th anniversary globally and its 25th year in India. Earlier in 2025, the company recorded its highest-ever monthly sales in March, delivering 7,422 units—further underscoring the brand's momentum in the Indian automotive landscape.Škoda Auto Volkswagen India has announced a key manufacturing milestone with the rollout of its 500,000th car produced in India. This significant achievement comes over two decades after the Czech carmaker began its local production journey in 2001 with the Octavia model at its Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (formerly Aurangabad) plant. The half-a-million mark reflects not just growing customer demand but also Škoda Auto Volkswagen India's steady integration of global manufacturing standards with Indian operations. Production is currently carried out across two major facilities in Pune and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, with roughly 70% of the vehicles assembled in Pune. Škoda's journey in India has been marked by the introduction of several key models, ranging from early favourites like the Octavia and Laura to more recent offerings such as the Kushaq and Slavia. These vehicles have catered to a wide spectrum of Indian buyers and have contributed to Škoda's expansion into a more accessible and locally relevant portfolio. Also Read : Confident of Kushaq sales bouncing back in 1-2 months: New Skoda boss. Facelift coming soon Beyond serving the domestic market, Škoda's Indian manufacturing is also playing an increasingly important role in its international strategy. Components and parts manufactured in India are now being used to assemble cars in Vietnam, including models like the Kushaq and Slavia. This development aligns with India's broader objective of becoming a global manufacturing hub under the "Make in India" initiative. According to Andreas Dick, Škoda Auto's Board Member for Production and Logistics, this milestone is not only about the volume but about building a responsive, scalable ecosystem that supports international quality benchmarks. He noted the importance of combining global processes with Indian engineering talent to meet evolving market demands. Škoda Auto Volkswagen India CEO and Managing Director Piyush Arora emphasized the emotional significance of the achievement, viewing the 500,000 units as not just products but meaningful customer connections. He highlighted the company's ongoing efforts to deliver vehicles with a focus on quality, safety, and engineering precision. This milestone also comes at a symbolic time, as Škoda Auto marks its 130th anniversary globally and its 25th year in India. Earlier in 2025, the company recorded its highest-ever monthly sales in March, delivering 7,422 units—further underscoring the brand's momentum in the Indian automotive landscape. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2025, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date: 04 Jul 2025, 12:00 PM IST
Al Bawaba
23-06-2025
- Automotive
- Al Bawaba
Škoda Auto announces Q-Auto as its exclusive distributor in Qatar, with new showroom opening in Second Half of 2025
Škoda Auto has announced Q-Auto as its new exclusive distributor in Qatar, emphasising the Czech brand's commitment to one of the region's most dynamic economies. A brand-new showroom, which is set to launch in the second half of 2025, will reflect Q-Auto's strong reputation of delivering high-quality, customer-oriented mobility solutions. Škoda Auto's partnership with Q-Auto will ensure the brand's presence in the market is built on a foundation of trust, expertise, and exceptional service. Q-Auto, a respected name in the Qatari automotive sector, brings deep market knowledge and operational sales and aftersales excellence to this partnership. Moreover, all existing warranties for Škoda cars will continue to remain valid, guaranteeing peace of mind for all customers. New-car buyers in Qatar can now choose from five high-value models: the Kodiaq, Škoda's flagship seven-seat SUV celebrated for its space and versatility; the Karoq, a well-rounded compact SUV that balances practicality with style; the Kushaq, an agile, city-focused SUV; the Octavia, a global favourite renowned for performance, practicality and comfort; and, launching soon, the all-new Superb, whose generous cabin and efficiency make it an ideal choice for Qatar's growing fleet market. Collectively, these models showcase Škoda's hallmarks of European craftsmanship, safety and Simply Clever features that simplify everyday driving. Lukas Honzak, Managing Director of Škoda Middle East, commented: 'Our partnership with Q-Auto, which brings a strong reputation for service excellence through its previous work with Volkswagen and Audi, is a major milestone for the brand in Qatar. This partnership fully supports our regional expansion plan and lays the foundation for long-term growth here. With rising demand for intelligent, value-driven vehicles, Qatar offers an ideal platform for Škoda to showcase its top-tier products. It also supports our target of achieving 10,000 annual deliveries across the Middle East in the coming years.' Ahmed Shariefi, CEO of Q-Auto, quotes: "Qatar's rapid development calls for automotive solutions that reflect its ambition. With Škoda, Q-Auto has found a partner that shares our commitment to excellence and uncompromising quality. From our strategic presence at Doha Festival City to our upcoming showroom and dedicated service centre located at Street 41, we are building an integrated automotive ecosystem where innovation meets deep local insight. This initiative is not just about launching new vehicles; it's about redefining the entire ownership experience for Qatar's drivers, offering them a journey that is clever, rewarding, and distinctly Škoda.' Building for the future in a dynamic Qatari market With one of the highest GDP per capita rates in the world and a young, tech-savvy population, Qatar presents significant opportunities for Škoda to grow its customer base. The Qatari market has shown a strong desire for European brands that offer a balance of innovation, safety, and lasting quality, traits that are at the core of Škoda's DNA. With a heritage spanning over 130 years, Škoda has continually evolved building on its strong customer-centric ethos. Its dedication to delivering quality, safety, and Simply Clever solutions has transformed the brand into a respected global player. In Qatar, Škoda remains committed to this legacy of bringing smart, practical vehicles that resonate with the driving habits and expectations of today's Qatari motorists.
Daily Mirror
21-06-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
Major car brand opens up about what 3-letter symbol on your fuel cap means
Brits are being encouraged to check their car's fuel cap for a three-letter symbol that shows whether their motor is ready to use a type of diesel that not only protects your car - but also the planet UK motorists are only just discovering what a common three-letter symbol on your car's fuel cap actually means. The next time you go to fill up your vehicle, check for a capitalised abbreviation found near the fuel cap, which will show whether your motor is ready to use a type of diesel that not only protects your car, but also the planet. This initialism, which is steadily becoming more common on vehicles, means they are compatible with a much more eco-friendly energy source called paraffinic diesel — clean, synthetic fuel characterised by its high purity, near-zero sulphur and very low aromatic content. Across Europe, compatibility with such fuels is signified by the letters "XTL". Demand for renewable diesel — also known as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) and R99 — has been increasing in recent years, with major investments in the renewable diesel supply chain enabling broader access for businesses. Among the manufacturers leading the charge with this greener tech is Škoda — many of the company's diesel models use HVO, which can reduce CO₂ emissions across the fuel and vehicle lifecycle by up to 90 per cent. Tests have shown HVO can be used without any issues in most Škoda diesel cars manufactured from 2015 onwards. Martin Řepka from the Škoda Auto Technical Development team said: "The key is how the fuel is made. HVO diesel is mostly produced from used cooking oils and waste vegetable oils. These plants absorbed CO₂ from the atmosphere by photosynthesis while growing, and that same CO₂ is released again when the fuel is burned." Cars that can use HVO have a label inside the fuel tank cover or around the filler neck itself. It will say both B7 (standard diesel) and XTL. If you see XTL, you're good to go — you can fill up with HVO without worry. XTL stands for X-to-Liquid — a synthetic diesel that meets the EN15940 standard for paraffinic fuels. These can be made in several ways: BTL (biomass-to-liquid) from biomass, GTL (gas-to-liquid) from natural gas or biogas, and PTL (power-to-liquid) from CO₂ and water using renewable electricity. Emphasising the fuel's trouble-free nature, Martin from Škoda said: 'Technical difficulties, such as degradation of rubber seals or fuel system components do not occur when using HVO, unlike ethanol-based fuels.' He added: "According to tests, HVO can last in the tank for more than 10 years without degrading and does not damage the fuel system in any way." This makes HVO an excellent choice for long-term storage. Its high cetane number means more efficient combustion. Reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 90 per cent. Produces fewer harmful emissions, especially particles which then reduces the frequency of particulate filter regeneration. Reduces engine buildup and deposits. Can be stored in the tank for up to 10 years without any signs of degradation. Doesn't absorb moisture from the air. So if your vehicle has the XTL label, you can most probably use renewable diesel. However, it is always advisable to check your manufacturer's guidelines to ensure it's compatible with all equipment and warranties.
The Hindu
12-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Hindu
Škoda Auto India focuses on automatic vehicles to propel its growth
Škoda Auto India, celebrating 25 years in India, has now decided to focus on automatic cars as a major differentiating factor to power its next round of growth. While the industry automatic average is 25%, it is 53% for Škoda Auto and the company plans to take it to over 70%, Ashish Gupta, brand director, Škoda Auto India told The Hindu. 'We are very strong in automatic and have a robust portfolio. We want to play on our strength in the market. Our automatic technology is proven and there is opportunity in the market and we can influence this as a strategy,' he said. With this the company is planning to double its market share in 2025 from 1.8% from year till date and 0.9% in 2024. Besides this it plans to retain its number 7 rank among passenger car companies in the country which it has achieved from 11th position previously, he said. 'India is the most important growth market for Škoda Auto outside Europe. We are focused on building a strong, future-ready brand with strength of purpose, clarity of vision, and agility of execution,' Mr Gupta said. 'Our product offensive strategy is in tune with evolving consumer needs and aspirations, fuelling our journey of progress. We are getting closer to customers, strategically expanding our network, and reinforcing our legacy of quality, safety, and value,' he said. 'With the wheels in motion across all our business imperatives, 2025 will be the year where we significantly strengthen the brand and surge ahead in India,' he added. In products line up Škoda Auto India which is having a strong SUV portfolio with its slogan 'SUV for Everyone' with the Kylaq, Kushaq, and Kodiaq SUVs which are positioned at different price points, the company said it will build its sedan legacy driven by the Slavia and a soon-to-be-launched 'global icon'. Škoda Auto India is expanding to tier II and tier III markets. From over 165 cities today, It targets to be present in over 200 cities this year. The company has already grown from 120 customer touchpoints in 2021 to over 290 today, with an aim for 350 touchpoints by the end of 2025. Škoda Auto India said it would further strengthen its certified pre-owned business to power its growth. While it already caters to government agencies and other fleets, it will focus on renewed actions at garnering further growth from these avenues, while enhancing corporate and rural channels.
Al Bawaba
28-05-2025
- Automotive
- Al Bawaba
Škoda Launches the New Octavia in the Middle East, Elevating Everyday Driving
Škoda has officially announced the highly anticipated arrival of the new Octavia model in Oman, a bold evolution of the brand's global best-seller with enhanced design, functionality, and sustainability. With over seven million units sold worldwide, the Octavia, the embodiment of high-quality European engineering and craftsmanship, continues to anchor Škoda's line-up, offering ideal interior, boot and storage space with simply clever features throughout the cabin. Available in four distinct trims – Essence, Selection, Sportline and the sporty range-topper RS - this new model features a sharper design language, smarter technology, and even more dynamic performance, tailored to meet the evolving expectations of drivers across the region. The new Octavia's exterior reflects subtle yet impactful enhancements. Revised front and rear aprons, a reimagined Škoda grille, and second-generation LED Matrix beam headlights contribute to a more confident, contemporary look. These advanced headlights feature 36 matrix segments for improved illumination, while animated LED rear lights add a striking visual signature on the Sportline and RS variants. A refreshed alloy wheel portfolio includes bold new designs up to 19 inches, including Sportline-exclusive Vega and RS-specific Elias wheels in anthracite. The colour palette comprises nine exterior paint options, with Mamba Green reserved for the Sportline and RS trims, enabling greater personalisation. Inside, the Octavia sets a new benchmark with its commitment to premium comfort and eco-conscious materials. A 13-inch infotainment display makes its debut, complemented by a newly redesigned 10-inch Digital Display that replaces analogue dials as standard across the range. Enhanced USB-C ports now provide 45W fast charging, while the upgraded Phone Box delivers 15W wireless charging with integrated cooling. Passengers enjoy increased comfort and mindful design, with seat upholstery incorporating recycled materials and sustainably tanned leather. Features such as dual-zone Climatronic, enhanced KESSY keyless entry, and Simply Clever additions — including a new rear storage box and a sustainably sourced umbrella — complete the thoughtfully upgraded cabin. Powertrains That Combine Efficiency and Excitement The new Octavia range features two turbocharged petrol engines that strike the perfect balance between efficiency and performance. The 1.4 TSI engine delivers 150 hp through an 8-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth, responsive performance ideal for everyday driving. Remarkably efficient, the 1.4 TSI achieves fuel consumption as low as 5.6 litres per 100 km, offering drivers both spirited dynamics and long-distance economy in one Simply Clever package. For those seeking a more exhilarating experience, the range-topping Octavia RS is powered by a 2.0 TSI engine that produces 265 hp and 370 Nm of torque. Paired with a 7-speed DSG transmission, the RS accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h. With progressive steering, a VAQ limited-slip differential, and a sport suspension lowered by 15 millimetres, the RS offers dynamic handling, outstanding traction, and a level of driving enjoyment that stands out in the segment. Advanced Safety That Inspires Confidence The new Octavia also raises the bar for safety. The addition of Attention and Drowsiness Assist provides more intelligent monitoring of driver alertness while advanced driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control will be available later this year. With up to seven airbags, enhanced camera-based assistance systems, and advanced emergency braking, the Octavia reinforces its five-star Euro NCAP rating and stands among the safest sedans in its segment Simply Clever Features for Everyday Comfort The Octavia continues to lead in everyday practicality, thanks to Škoda's signature Simply Clever innovations. Designed with comfort and convenience in mind, the Octavia can be equipped with wireless phone charging with active ventilation ensuring the device stays cool and powered, while multiple fast-charging charging ports, including one in the rear-view mirror, keep everyone connected on the go. Additional thoughtful features such as a reversible boot mat, a fully sustainable integrated umbrella in the passenger door and a removable waste bin in the door panel, ensure the Octavia is always ready for real-life demands—whether on the school run or a weekend getaway. Heritage and Future in Harmony As Škoda celebrates its 130th anniversary this year, the Octavia continues to stand as a key pillar of the brand's global success since the modern version's debut in 1996. With a presence in over 60 markets, It remains one of the top-selling models in seven European countries and a consistent winner of prestigious automotive accolades. Lukáš Honzák, Managing Director of Škoda Middle East, commented: 'The launch of the new Octavia represents another important step for the brand in our Middle East journey. For the first time, we're introducing new entry-level trims that will make the Octavia accessible to an even wider audience, including price-sensitive customers and businesses seeking fleet solutions. All without compromising safety, comfort, or design, something that will resonate with our customers here who value innovation, reliability, and refined European engineering. Meanwhile, at the top of the range the Octavia RS continues to lead with its bold design, impressive performance, and confident drive. As a halo model for the brand in this region, the Octavia RS really sits in a category of its own.' With its refreshed design, forward-thinking technology, enhanced safety, and commitment to sustainability, the new Škoda Octavia sets a new standard for everyday driving in Oman. Whether chosen for its practicality, performance, or premium features, the Octavia continues to embody Škoda's promise of delivering accessible, intelligent mobility — now more refined and future-ready than ever before.
