Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Unveils Student-made Pickup Truck

Skoda Auto Volkswagen India (SAVWIPL) is committed to the government's ‘Skill India’ initiative through its Student Car Project. This year, the Mechatronics students have created an innovative Pickup Truck by merging a Volkswagen Taigun SUV and Volkswagen Virtus sedan. The project was developed in various phases, from car concept finalisation to ideas collection, market analysis, research and development, procurement, packing, and final car testing for launch over a period of nine months. 

The students designed and 3D-printed various parts, demonstrating their ability to utilise cutting-edge manufacturing techniques to solve design challenges. They also equipped the vehicle with specialised accessories like underbody protection, studded tyres, ambient lighting, and special roof-mounted lights, completing the rugged pickup truck design.

Throughout the project, the students were mentored by skilled professionals at SAVWIPL. The mentors helped and guided the students to collaborate with suppliers and industry experts, helping them bring their innovative ideas to life. This project is one among other initiatives that the company is driving in line with the Government's focus on skilling of youth as envisaged in the recent announcements in the Union Budget 2024.

Andreas Dick, Member of the Board of Management for Production and Logistics, Skoda Auto a.s., said, “The successful completion of Student Car Project 2.0 in India is a showcase of how young talent can learn to use cutting-edge technology, precision, and efficiency to create industry-leading vehicles. By bringing global manufacturing practices to India, our goal is to create environments where young innovators can grow into the changemakers of tomorrow, strengthening India’s role as a global manufacturing hub.”

Globally, the Skoda has an Azubi Student Car Project under the Skoda Academy. The Group aims to highlight the high level of training at its Vocational School while supporting the nation’s ‘Skill India’ initiative. The project offers students practical experience in idea evaluation and implementation, helping them grasp theoretical concepts more clearly while enhancing their skills in the manufacturing process.

Piyush Arora, Managing Director and CEO of Skoda Auto Volkswagen India, said, “Our unique Student Car project, is a great platform that gives wings to the imagination of the students to share the future of mobility. We firmly believe that these initiatives of the Government will be fundamental for a ‘Viksit Bharat’.”