Škoda Kylaq sets off from Pune to Prague: Consul General flags off landmark journey
06.05.2026 / 06:00 | Aktualizováno: 06.05.2026 / 06:08
At the end of April, a Škoda Kylaq manufactured in Pune embarked on an over 18,000-kilometre journey to Prague. Rather than a standard export shipment, the project takes the form of a long-distance expedition by a series-production vehicle across thirteen countries in Asia and Europe.
The expedition was ceremonially flagged off at the production facility in Pune in the presence of senior management of Škoda Auto Volkswagen India and the Consul General of the Czech Republic in Mumbai, Mrs. Kateřina Vovková. The launch coincided with the first anniversary of the Kylaq’s introduction to the Indian market. During the “Pune to Prague” flag-off, the model was presented as a blend of Indian dynamism and European industrial heritage, reflecting the core positioning of the brand in India and the longstanding tradition of Czech engineering and manufacturing excellence.
Since its market debut, the Kylaq has achieved strong commercial traction. In 2025, more than 43,900 units were sold, placing the model among the best-performing vehicles in India’s highly competitive compact SUV segment. The model has contributed to strengthening Škoda Auto’s position in the country and to increasing its market share in one of the world’s fastest-growing automotive markets. The expedition highlights the growing role of India within Škoda Auto’s global operations. The Kylaq, developed and manufactured locally, is being showcased beyond its primary market without major modifications. This underlines the increasing capability of India not only as a key market, but also as a production and development hub within the company’s international footprint.
The route itself represents a demanding real-world test. Over the course of approximately two months, the vehicle travels through a wide range of conditions, from dense Indian traffic to high-altitude Himalayan routes, arid and desert regions, and finally European road networks. The journey combines variations in road quality, altitude and climate, providing a comprehensive demonstration of the vehicle’s robustness.
At the same time, the project reflects the broader strength of Czech industry, particularly in the automotive sector, which remains one of the pillars of the Czech economy and a key driver of exports. The presence of Škoda Auto in India demonstrates how Czech industrial know-how can be successfully adapted to global markets while maintaining its technological standards and brand identity.
The journey can be followed on the social media channels of Škoda Auto India and Autocar India under the hashtag #KylaqP2P, as well as on the dedicated website KylaqP2P.com.