Skoda to incorporate Maruti's expertise in developing a small car
Skoda to incorporate Maruti's expertise in developing a small car
Skoda Auto has been in headlines with the launch of its long awaited car Skoda Yeti. But it doesn't look like they are done with the announcements. Czech auto maker has announced to develop a new small car with the help of Indian auto giant Maruti Suzuki which is expected to be unveiled in 2012. The new baby from Skoda, Skoda Yeti had a great launch in the domestic auto market. This sports utility vehicle comes with a price tag of Rs 15.40 lacs and Rs 16.63 lacs (ex-showroom, New Delhi). Thomas Kuehl responded when asked about the Czech car maker planning to launch the small car with the help of Maruti India by saying that there is a great possibility of seeking guidance from the Indian auto maker, Maruti for the small car. Volkswagen, Skoda Auto's parent company last year purchased 19.9 per cent stake in Maruti Suzuki Motor Corp for a whooping amount of USD 2.5 billion and in this regard the auto maker is looking for the opportunity to explore ventures which includes vehicle designs and automobile manufacturing. Mr Kuehl also said that, Suzuki likes Volkswagen's technology which they would like to apply in its own cars whereas Volkswagen is looking forward to explore the small car market with the czar in the small car segment, Maruti. The decision on the role of Maruti Suzuki in the new small car from Skoda Auto will be discussed later in the headquarters of the company. Volkswagen and Maruti Suzuki India signed a deal last month and are planning to announce the Indian specific plans on joint manufacturing and vehicle designs which may take shape in next year. Maruti India, has the expertise of the small car and it holds 50 per cent of the market share in 15 lacs cars in the Indian auto market. Also, Volkswagen technological expertise has made the company a success in the Indian market arena. From Skoda Auto, it is announced that the new small car will be coming on the Indian Terrain in the next two years which is expected to be priced between Rs 3 lacs and Rs 5 lacs. The company is also planning to introduce a sedan which is speculated to be priced in the range of Rs 6 lacs to Rs 7 lacs by 2011.