Skoda Postpones EV Launch in India While Bringing More Global Models to Market
Skoda Auto India is pressing pause on its full-scale electric vehicle (EV) rollout in India, opting instead to focus on expanding its line-up of existing global internal-combustion engine models. In its statement, the company said it will monitor developments in the Indian EV ecosystem and regulatory policy before launching a dedicated EV offering in the country. EVMechanica
While the global Skoda group continues its rapid electrification elsewhere, over the coming year, the brand intends to bring additional global nameplates into India via imports rather than introduce EVs locally. According to Brand Director Ashish Gupta, the decision reflects concerns around infrastructure readiness, import duties, and an uncertain EV-policy framework in India.
In numbers, the company sold over 61,600 units in India between January and October 2025, achieving what it called “one of its strongest years”. Its current market share hovers around 2 percent of the domestic passenger-vehicle segment.
Looking ahead, Skoda says its EV entry into India is still on its long-term agenda but likely won’t arrive until after key conditions improve. Among the factors cited are clearer trade arrangements, localisation of batteries, and a mature charging network.
Editor’s View:
From a tyre-industry vantage point, this development underlines how automotive supply chains depend not only on vehicle propulsion trends but also on broader ecosystem readiness. For tyre makers and rubber compound suppliers, a deferral in EV launches like this means timing matters as much as propulsion type. While ICE vehicles continue to dominate the near term, the shift to EVs alters tyre load profiles, compound needs, and service-interval demands. By deferring its EV ramp-up, Skoda keeps the status quo tyre architecture alive for now, which means less immediate disruption, but it also signals that when the EV wave does arrive in India, the readiness of tyres, charging infrastructure, and service frameworks will matter.
