Car buying, redefined

CEO Klaus Zellmer says the Slavia is proof that a shrinking segment can still be won. While SUVs continue to dominate global sales charts, Škoda Auto's global CEO Klaus Zellmer believes there's still meaningful room to win in the sedan segment — and the newly unveiled Slavia facelift is the brand's clearest bet on that thesis.Addressing what he called a broader shift in consumer sentiment — sometimes described as "SUV fatigue" — Zellmer didn't shy away from the data. "If you...

Global CEO Klaus Zellmer says a larger, fully localised EV is the "clear plan" for the Indian market. Škoda Auto has ruled out its compact EV, the Epiq, as the vehicle that will lead its electric push in India, with global CEO Klaus Zellmer confirming that a larger, more India-specific model is already in development.Speaking exclusively with ACKO Drive about the brand's electric vehicle roadmap, Zellmer acknowledged that the Epiq — which had a strong global premiere earlier this year —...

CEO Klaus Zellmer confirms ongoing discussions with multiple Indian groups, but urges caution. Škoda Auto is actively exploring a strategic partnership with an Indian company, according to global CEO Klaus Zellmer, who confirmed the brand has held discussions with "various different organisations" as it looks to deepen its roots in one of its most important growth markets.Speaking exclusively with ACKO Drive on whether a local partnership was a necessity or simply a welcome possibility, Zellmer avoided naming any specific group but...

Klaus Zellmer says India is Škoda's "second leg", as brand posts 96% growth and record sales. Škoda Auto's global CEO Klaus Zellmer has firmly dismissed speculation that the Czech carmaker is scaling back its India ambitions, calling such rumours baseless and "the opposite" of the company's actual strategy.Speaking exclusively with ACKO Drive, Zellmer addressed talk that has been circulating in trade circles suggesting uncertainty around Škoda's long-term India commitment. "There's no plan to leave India. It's quite the opposite," he said,...

The locally assembled i5 long-wheelbase variant is expected to challenge Mercedes-Benz and Tesla in India’s fastest-growing luxury segment. BMW is preparing to launch a long-wheelbase version of its i5 electric sedan in India, with the car set to become the German marque’s first all-electric sedan assembled locally, at its Chennai facility. At the launch of the X1 LWB, the company showcased the i5 LWB as well, formally acknowledging this launch for the Indian market.The move would give BMW a locally built...