Biplab Das 
Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL) has reached a significant milestone, producing over 1.5 million vehicles at its Chakan manufacturing facility. This achievement underscores the plant’s pivotal role in the Indian automotive industry since its inception in 2009.
The Chakan Plant, which began with the production of the Škoda Fabia, has now rolled out more than 1.5 million vehicles. This includes notable models from the Volkswagen Group such as the VW Vento, Polo, Škoda Fabia, and Rapid, along with recent models based on the MQB-A0-IN platform like the VW Taigun, Virtus, Škoda Kushaq, and Slavia.
Significant engine production
The facility’s Engine Shop has produced over 300,000 engines, focusing on the 1.0L TSI engines with a significant reliance on domestically manufactured components. This aligns with India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative and supports local manufacturing and talent development in line with the ‘Skill India’ movement.
INDIA 2.0 initiative and safety standards
SAVWIPL has produced 300,000 units of the INDIA 2.0 car range, including models such as the VW Taigun, Virtus, Škoda Kushaq, and Slavia. These vehicles have achieved five-star safety ratings for both adult and child occupants from Global NCAP, underscoring their high safety standards.
Export contributions
SAVWIPL exports over 30% of its car production to more than 40 countries, making it one of the top four exporters of India-made cars. This highlights the company’s role in showcasing Indian manufacturing capabilities and quality on the international stage.
Andreas Dick, Škoda Auto a.s. Board Member for Production and Logistics, stated, “India emerges as a vital contributor to Škoda Auto’s production prowess. The milestones achieved by Škoda Auto Volkswagen India reflect our commitment to excellence and innovation on a global scale.”
Dr Johannes Neft, Škoda Auto a.s. Board Member for Technical Development, added, “Achieving the 1.5 million production milestone is a testament to the exceptional engineering capabilities of our Indian manufacturing facility. Our top-class R&D centre in India plays a crucial role in driving innovation and excellence.”
Piyush Arora, Managing Director & CEO of Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited, noted the company’s significant output. “The production milestone of four successful MQB models highlights our dedication to India’s automotive industry.”
Focus on R&D and future growth
SAVWIPL continues to prioritise research and development, strategic partnerships, and talent investment to drive innovation and sustainability in the Indian automotive sector. This focus is seen as essential for the company’s future success and growth in both domestic and global markets.
Škoda Auto Volkswagen India’s production of over 1.5 million vehicles at the Chakan Plant marks a major milestone in the company’s contribution to the Indian automotive industry. Through ongoing investments in R&D and a commitment to excellence, SAVWIPL aims to continue driving growth and innovation in the sector.
