Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Student Car Project reimagines a Pickup Truck Concept

• SAVWIPL reinforces the Government’s “Skill India initiative”
• The organisation drives innovation through its vocational training for students to deliver industry-leading mobility solutions,
• This year, the Mechatronics students crafted a unique pickup truck by combining the VW Taigun SUV and VW Virtus sedan

Pune : Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (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.

SAVWIPL Academy’s Dual Vocational Training in mechatronics is a flagship program launched in 2011 and has been instrumental in upskilling  high school students. This full-time 3.5-year course, modelled after Germany’s vocational system, is designed to develop and prepare young talents for the automobile industry. The program instils technological creativity, confidence and promotes a problem-solving mindset for developing innovative technologies. The project gives students the freedom to explore and offers valuable insights into the automotive industry, future trends, and VW Group standards.

Globally, the Škoda has an Azubi Student Car Project under the Škoda 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.

Andreas Dick, Member of the Board of Management for Production and Logistics, Škoda 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. Our such projects not only focus on strengthening manufacturing capabilities but also ensure that the next generation is ready to drive innovation on a global scale.”

Piyush Arora, Managing Director and CEO of Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited, said, “It is impressive to see the unique concept of developing a Pickup truck by our Mechatronics students as a part of the Student Car Project. Our unique Student Car project, is a great platform that gives wings to the imagination of the students to share the future of mobility. Through this project we are aligned with country’s ‘Skill India’ mission wherein we are instilling a culture of hands-on learning where local talent can thrive in a global ecosystem. We firmly believe that these initiatives of the Government will be fundamental for a ‘Viksit Bharat’. At Škoda Auto Volkswagen India, we are committed to the overall development of the society, supporting local communities and empowering the youth.”