Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL) has reaffirmed its commitment to the Indian government's Skill India initiative through the launch of its innovative Student Car Project 2.0.
This year, students from the company’s Mechatronics programme have successfully transformed a Volkswagen Taigun SUV and Volkswagen Virtus sedan into a fully functional pickup truck, demonstrating creativity and technical proficiency in automotive design and manufacturing.
Students utilised 3D printing technology to create various vehicle components, showcasing their ability to apply cutting-edge manufacturing techniques. The finished truck also features rugged accessories, including underbody protection, studded tyres, ambient lighting, and roof-mounted lights, giving it a robust, off-road-ready appearance.
The students were mentored throughout the process by industry experts at SAVWIPL, who guided them through every phase—from collaborating with suppliers to overcoming design challenges. This hands-on experience is part of the company’s broader efforts to support the government’s focus on youth skill development, as outlined in the recent Union Budget 2024.
SAVWIPL’s Dual Vocational Training program in Mechatronics, launched in 2011, has been instrumental in upskilling students across India. The 3.5-year course, based on the German vocational system, prepares high school students for careers in the automotive sector, promoting creativity, problem-solving, and a deep understanding of future mobility trends. The Student Car Project is a cornerstone of this initiative, offering participants valuable insight into the industry while fostering their technical skills.
Globally, Škoda Auto has implemented similar initiatives, including the Azubi Student Car Project under the Škoda Academy, aimed at showcasing the high standards of training offered at the company’s Vocational School. The programme equips students with practical experience in idea generation and implementation, helping them grasp theoretical concepts while honing their skills in modern manufacturing processes.
Commenting on the success of the Student Car Project in India, Andreas Dick, Member of the Board of Management for Production and Logistics at Škoda Auto, said, “The completion of Student Car Project 2.0 in India highlights how young talent can leverage cutting-edge technology, precision, and efficiency to create vehicles that meet industry standards. By incorporating global manufacturing practices, we aim to empower young innovators to drive India’s emergence as a global manufacturing hub.”
Piyush Arora, Managing Director and CEO of Škoda Auto Volkswagen India, said, “The unique pickup truck concept developed by our Mechatronics students showcases the power of imagination in shaping the future of mobility. This project aligns with India’s ‘Skill India’ mission, fostering a culture of hands-on learning and enabling local talent to thrive in a global ecosystem.”
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