Skoda could start local assembly for Karoq

According to the Zac Hollis, director, sales, service and marketing at Skoda, the company is interested in completely-knocked down (CKD) operations for the Karoq in the future.

At present, the carmaker is focusing on selling the 1,000 units of Karoq that have been allotted for India. The Karoq is brought into the country via the completely built-up (CBU) route as part of the 2,500 homologation-free units rule. For local assembly, the car would have to be homologated in India. If the demand for the SUV is healthy, it would justify the additional investment required.

Skoda would have to also keep in mind the upcoming emissions norms. It is said that Real Driving Emissions (RDE) are expected to be introduced in 2023.

Skoda has launched the Karoq SUV priced at Rs. 24.99 lakh (ex-showroom, India). The Karoq is powered by a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that produces 148 BHP @ 5,000-6,000 rpm and 250 Nm @ 1,500-3,500 rpm. The engine is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission which drives the front wheels.

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