Skoda Auto is assembling the Kushaq and Slavia in Vietnam using CKD kits from India. The new production unit will enhance Skoda’s presence in the ASEAN market and aims for a total of 32 dealerships by 2025. Features of the vehicles include advanced safety and comfort amenities, and Vietnam is recognized for its significant growth potential in the automotive sector.
Skoda Auto, in collaboration with the Thanh Cong Group, has initiated the assembly of the Skoda Kushaq and Slavia in Vietnam using Completely Knocked Down (CKD) kits from its logistics center located in Pune, India. The assembly will commence with the Kushaq, followed by the Slavia, which is expected to start production during the summer. The assembly facility, situated in Quang Ninh province, features essential operations such as welding, painting, and final assembly.
Since its entry into the Vietnamese market in September 2023, Skoda has established 15 sales outlets, with an ambitious plan to expand this network to 32 dealerships by the year 2025. The assembly of vehicles locally is expected to enhance Skoda’s market presence within the ASEAN region and demonstrate a commitment to tapping into Vietnam’s rapidly growing automotive sector.
Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Skoda Auto, emphasized the significance of this new assembly line, stating that it represents a vital step in the company’s growth within the Vietnamese market. He noted how this initiative will create synergies with the Indian market, contributing positively to both Skoda and its local partner.
Vietnam’s market will see the introduction of left-hand drive versions of the Kushaq and Slavia, which will be equipped with features such as adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and synthetic leather upholstery. Currently, Skoda also markets imported SUVs like the Karoq and Kodiaq in Vietnam.
As the fourth-largest automotive market in Southeast Asia, Vietnam presents substantial growth potential with only 34 passenger vehicles per 1,000 residents in a population nearing 100 million. Skoda underscores Vietnam’s significant prospects for automotive development given the ongoing economic growth in the country. In India, the Kushaq is priced between Rs 10.99 lakh to Rs 19.11 lakh, while the Slavia is offered from Rs 10.34 lakh to Rs 18.34 lakh, both receiving a five-star safety rating from Global NCAP.
In summary, Skoda Auto has commenced the assembly of the Kushaq and Slavia in Vietnam using CKD kits from India, marking a significant expansion within the ASEAN market. The establishment of this facility in Quang Ninh will bolster Skoda’s presence, aligning with their strategy to enhance operations in growing markets. Moving forward, the introduction of advanced features in the vehicles aims to cater to Vietnamese consumers, while the national automotive market exhibits promising potential for growth.
Original Source: www.indiatoday.in
