Škoda Auto Volkswagen India students develop pickup truck concept through skill development project

Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL) has reaffirmed its commitment to the government’s ‘Skill India’ initiative through its Student Car Project. This year, Mechatronics students have developed a unique pickup truck by combining a Volkswagen Taigun SUV with a Volkswagen Virtus sedan.

The project involved multiple phases, including concept finalisation, idea collection, market analysis, research and development, procurement, assembly, and final vehicle testing, which took place over nine months. The students utilsed advanced manufacturing techniques, such as 3D printing, to create various parts and equipped the vehicle with accessories like underbody protection, studded tires, ambient lighting, and roof-mounted lights to complete the pickup truck's design.

Throughout the project, students were mentored by professionals from SAVWIPL, who provided guidance and facilitated collaboration with suppliers and industry experts to bring their ideas to life. This project is part of several initiatives SAVWIPL undertakes to align with the government's focus on youth skill development, as outlined in the Union Budget 2024.

The SAVWIPL Academy’s Dual Vocational Training program in mechatronics, launched in 2011, has been a key initiative for upskilling high school students. This 3.5-year course is modeled after Germany’s vocational training system and aims to prepare young talent for the automobile industry. It encourages technological creativity, confidence, and a problem-solving mindset to foster the development of innovative technologies, offering students insights into the automotive industry, future trends, and Volkswagen Group standards.

On a global scale, Škoda runs the Azubi Student Car Project under the Škoda Academy, intending to highlight the level of training at its Vocational School while supporting India's ‘Skill India’ initiative. The project provides students with practical experience in evaluating and implementing ideas, which helps them better understand theoretical concepts and enhances their skills in the manufacturing process.

Andreas Dick, Member of the Board of Management for Production and Logistics at Škoda Auto a.s., mentioned that the completion of the Student Car Project 2.0 in India demonstrates how young talent can apply advanced technology, precision, and efficiency in vehicle creation. He emphasised that bringing global manufacturing practices to India aims to create environments for young innovators to develop and contribute to strengthening India's role as a global manufacturing hub.

Piyush Arora, Managing Director and CEO of Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited, expressed that the Student Car Project provides a valuable platform for Mechatronics students to develop concepts such as the pickup truck. He noted that the initiative aligns with the country’s ‘Skill India’ mission by fostering a culture of hands-on learning, enabling local talent to thrive in a global ecosystem. He added that such initiatives are fundamental to supporting the nation’s development goals and that Škoda Auto Volkswagen India is committed to societal growth, supporting local communities, and empowering the youth.