Skoda Auto has taken a major leap in its global expansion strategy by inaugurating a new production facility in Vietnam. Located in Guang Ninh Province, this plant will assemble key components for the Skoda Kushaq SUV and Slavia sedan, models originally manufactured in India.
This move strengthens Skoda’s foothold in the Asian market, thanks to a collaboration with Vietnam’s Tang Cong Group. The facility is equipped with advanced welding, painting, and assembly lines, along with a quality control centre and a 2-kilometre test track for rigorous vehicle assessments.
Key Highlights of Skoda’s New Vietnam Plant
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Guang Ninh Province, Vietnam |
| Models Produced | Kushaq (first), Slavia (later in 2025) |
| Facility Highlights | Welding, Paint Shop, Assembly Line, Quality Control, Test Track |
| Testing Standards | Over 330,000 km of testing for Kushaq |
| Special Features | Left-Hand Drive (LHD), Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Leather Upholstery |
| Imported Models | Karoq & Kodiaq (from Europe) |
What’s Different in the Vietnam-Spec Kushaq & Slavia?
The Vietnamese versions of the Kushaq and Slavia will come with left-hand drive (LHD) configurations, unlike the Indian models. Additionally, buyers in Vietnam will enjoy premium features such as:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Leather Upholstery
These features are currently not available in the Indian variants, making the Vietnam-spec models more premium.
Why Vietnam? Skoda’s Strategic Move
Skoda’s CEO, Claus Sellmer, stated:
“The opening of this new assembly line is a milestone in our expansion in the fast-growing Vietnamese market, strengthening our position in Asia. By leveraging synergies with India, we create a win-win for Skoda and our partner, Tang Cong Group.”
This expansion highlights India’s growing role as a manufacturing hub for global markets. With automakers shifting focus to developing nations, India is emerging as a key player in supplying vehicles and components worldwide.
What This Means for Indian Automotive Industry?
- India strengthens its position as an auto export hub.
- More job opportunities in manufacturing and supply chains.
- Potential for feature upgrades in Indian models based on Vietnam’s premium offerings.
See Also
10 FAQs About Skoda’s Vietnam Plant
1. Where is Skoda’s new plant located?
✅ Guang Ninh Province, Vietnam.
2. Which models will be produced there?
✅ Kushaq (first), followed by Slavia.
3. Will these models be different from Indian versions?
✅ Yes, they get LHD, adaptive cruise control, and leather seats.
4. Does Skoda sell other models in Vietnam?
✅ Yes, the Karoq and Kodiaq are imported from Europe.
5. How rigorous is Skoda’s testing in Vietnam?
✅ Over 330,000 km of testing for Kushaq.
6. Who is Skoda’s local partner in Vietnam?
✅ Tang Cong Group.
7. Will this plant affect Indian production?
✅ No, India remains a key manufacturing hub for exports.
8. Are there any job opportunities due to this expansion?
✅ Yes, in both Vietnam and Indian supply chains.
9. Will India get the premium features seen in Vietnam models?
✅ Possibly in future updates, but not confirmed yet.
10. What’s Skoda’s long-term goal in Asia?
✅ Strengthening market share in fast-growing economies like Vietnam.
