Skoda Auto India plans to bring electric vehicles from its global portfolio to India in limited volumes next year as the Czech automaker looks to establish its presence in the EV market. According to Ashish Gupta, Brand Director of Skoda Auto India, the company needs an electric vehicle in its portfolio not only to meet future regulatory requirements but also to remain relevant as EV adoption gathers pace in India. The approach will be deliberately measured, with models such as the Epiq, Elroq and Peaq expected to arrive in restricted batches rather than as high-volume offerings, primarily to showcase the brand’s electric technology while navigating the constraints of current import duties that make competitive pricing difficult.
Gupta has emphasised that the immediate priority is not chasing large sales numbers but demonstrating capability and building familiarity among Indian customers. High customs duties continue to limit the commercial viability of fully built imported EVs, so the limited introduction is seen as a strategic first step that allows the brand to gain experience with charging infrastructure, after-sales training and customer expectations without overcommitting resources. Longer-term plans still centre on localisation, which the company regards as essential for any meaningful volume play in the Indian market. Discussions around a local manufacturing strategy and potential partnerships remain active, with global leadership indicating that finalising an Indian partner is a priority this year.
At the same time, Skoda’s interest in hybrids has cooled noticeably. Pure hybrids have hovered around just two per cent of the passenger vehicle market for an extended period, while interest in fully electric vehicles has shown clearer growth. Gupta has noted that recent trade developments favour petrol and diesel imports more than hybrids or EVs, further reducing the near-term attractiveness of a hybrid-focused path. The brand is therefore placing greater emphasis on pure electric options for its future compliance needs under tightening Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency norms, while continuing to strengthen its conventional petrol lineup and exploring CNG as a more accessible alternative powertrain for models such as the Kylaq.
This calibrated EV entry comes against the backdrop of Skoda’s broader India strategy, which has delivered strong growth through locally produced models including the Kylaq, Kushaq and Slavia. The company continues to refresh and expand that range while selectively bringing in global icons in limited numbers to maintain brand excitement. By introducing electric vehicles in controlled batches next year, Skoda aims to signal its long-term commitment to electrification without disrupting the momentum of its successful India 2.0 product cycle. The move reflects a pragmatic recognition that remaining relevant in a rapidly evolving market requires an electric presence, even if the path to scale will depend on clearer policy frameworks, deeper localisation and the gradual maturation of charging infrastructure across the country.