Skoda is now responsible for developing the Volkswagen Group’s existing MQB-A0 Global Platform.
This will be used by VW Group brands Skoda and Volkswagen to develop new entry-level models for regions with high growth potential including India, Russia, Africa as well as the ASEAN countries and Latin America.
The MQB-A0 Global Platform is used worldwide and forms the basis for new models with combustion engines in the entry-level segments. The focus is on India, Latin America, Russia, Africa and the ASEAN countries where the entry-level segments are of major importance and at the same time offer further growth potential.
The move comes on the heels of Skoda’s specially adapted MQB-A0-IN platform for the Indian market, where it sells the Skoda Kushaq compact SUV based on that platform.
Skoda is therefore drawing on its high level of development expertise as well as the ability to coordinate complex group projects and experience in entry-level segments to implement the project in individual regions.
Thomas Schäfer, Skoda Auto CEO, says: “By assuming responsibility for the MQB-A0 Global Platform, Skoda Auto is in charge of the worldwide development of a platform for the first time. We are applying our development expertise, taking on even more responsibility within the Volkswagen Group and at the same time strengthening Skoda Auto’s headquarters as an important European development centre for the group. I am convinced that we will be able to win over many new customers thanks to the MQB-A0 Global Platform and bolster the VW Group’s position in the entry-level segments.”
Ralf Brandstätter, Chairman of the Board of Management at Volkswagen, added: “Through our comprehensive platform strategy, we achieve economies of scale that enable us to offer our customers worldwide state-of-the-art technology and high quality at competitive prices. Based on this, the Group’s volume brands – Volkswagen and Skoda – can quickly deliver products to customers that are unique in the volume segment. As a brand with significant expertise in entry-level mobility, Skoda is ideally positioned to assume worldwide responsibility for the successful further development of the MQB-A0 Global Platform within the Volkswagen Group. This way, we are creating synergies that will further increase profitability within the volume group.”
Johannes Neft, Skoda Auto Board Member for Technical Development, said: “Our development team has a deep understanding of the entry-level segments. We are now bringing this to bear with the development of the MQB-A0 Global Platform. For us, this is a great award and at the same time strong motivation to make the project a success. Based on this platform, new models will be created that are precisely tailored to the diverse customer needs in the various regions.”