Volkswagen Group plans to enter India’s hybrid car market by 2028, leveraging its advanced India Main Platform (IMP) technology. This move comes amidst the growing popularity of hybrid cars and slower EV adoption. Locally manufactured hybrid SUVs and sedans may follow soon, along with the potential revival of the iconic Skoda Yeti.
Volkswagen’s Big Hybrid Push in India
Volkswagen Group is gearing up to tap into India’s growing demand for hybrid vehicles, with its first locally manufactured hybrid car expected by 2028. This move mirrors an industry-wide pivot towards hybrid models as EV adoption faces hurdles in Western markets. Hybrid car sales, on the other hand, have been surging, encouraging automakers to broaden their offerings beyond fully electric vehicles.
The India Main Platform (IMP): The Game Changer
Volkswagen is developing an India-specific architecture called the “India Main Platform” (IMP). Based on the Compact Main Platform (currently used in China), IMP is capable of supporting internal combustion engines (ICE), plug-in hybrids, and full-hybrid models. This flexibility makes launching hybrid cars in India a logical step for the carmaker.
IMP technology is versatile, but Volkswagen has yet to confirm which model will debut as the first India-produced hybrid car. Industry experts speculate that the newly-developed hybrid might serve as a successor to one of Volkswagen’s existing “India 2.0” models—such as the popular Skoda Kushaq or Volkswagen Taigun.
What’s Next for Hybrid Enthusiasts?
- Mid-Life Facelifts are likely in the pipeline for the Kushaq and Taigun, with an update expected as early as 2026.
- Next-Gen Models of the Skoda Slavia and VW Virtus could hit Indian roads as hybrid options a year later.
- If plans proceed as rumored, Volkswagen may even launch 7-seater SUVs under the Skoda and VW brands to directly compete with models like the Hyundai Alcazar.
Excitingly, Skoda may also bring back its beloved Yeti nameplate. Skoda CEO Klaus Zellmer has expressed enthusiasm about the Yeti’s potential comeback, giving hybrid SUV buyers another reason to look forward to future launches.
Volkswagen’s Hybrid Vision in India
By combining cutting-edge hybrid technology with local manufacturing capabilities, Volkswagen is set to make a significant impact on India’s automotive market. With rivals like Hyundai, Maruti Suzuki, and Toyota already offering hybrid models, Volkswagen’s entry into this space could provide buyers with greater choice and competition.
Stay tuned for more updates about Volkswagen’s hybrid revolution in India!