The new products will be based on MQB A0 IN platform and the first product developed under INDIA 2.0 strategy has been confirmed to be a mid-size SUV
Volkswagen Group today announced that they are going to invest €1 billion (Rs. 7,900 crore) in India. Skoda will take the lead in development of new made-for-India models. The project is named as INDIA 2.0 and both companies will launch two new cars every year from 2021 to capture the lost share in the Indian market.
The new products will be based on advanced modular MQB A0 IN platform and it will be localised heavily to keep pricing competitive. The first product to be developed for India will be a mid-size SUV due for debut in 2020 and it will be premium in nature. The second model might be a sedan which will replace the aging Vento and Rapid.
Also Read : Aggression For Future? Mass Hiring By Skoda In India Ahead Of Big Plans
Then, we can expect VW and Skoda to bring new generation of Polo and Fabia to India respectively underpinned by the MQB A0 IN platform of course. SKoda will open an engineering centre in India to develop models for the domestic market and in future, VW group is planning to export these models to global markets also.
We can also expect VW group to introduce global models as the localised platform will help in launching international products at an affordable price range for Indian customers.
Also Read : Skoda Confirms Launching New Vehicle In India In 2020
The engine lineup for upcoming models will include both petrol and diesel engines along with hybrid and CNG models later in the life cycle. VW group is also planning to make India as a hub for small engines, as the upcoming mid-size SUV will likely be powered by new three cylinder 1.0 L TSI engine and this engine will be used in other products also.
Skoda will officially reveal new mid-size SUV in 2020 and the launch will take place by 2021 in India. Apart from product development, the investment will also go into expansion of dealership network and service as it is one of the weak area of both companies. With the fresh investment and new products, Skoda and VW want to increase their market share to be 5 percent in India by 2025.