Skoda Auto and JSW Green Mobility have signed a non-binding MoU to explore an automotive partnership in India, with the potential cooperation including an India-specific electric vehicle (EV) platform and locally produced electric models.

The potential joint venture has been reported as possibly involving a 51:49 ownership structure in favour of JSW. Such an arrangement could provide funding for the India Main Platform (IMP), an India-specific EV architecture expected to underpin locally produced electric models from 2028.

Skoda Auto and JSW Green Mobility signed the non-binding memorandum of understanding on September 9th to explore an automotive partnership in India. Skoda Auto Volkswagen India subsequently confirmed that the proposed cooperation would cover its Indian operations. The companies have described the discussions as exploratory, and no definitive agreement has been reached.

India-specific EV platform at centre of potential partnership

The India Main Platform is being developed as an India-specific adaptation of Volkswagen Group's China Main Platform, with localisation of the platform, battery system and other components. The first locally produced Skoda EV based on the programme is expected in 2028, followed by another electric model at a later stage.

Last year, it was reported that Volkswagen could not invest as much of its own capital in the platform as originally planned. Autocar Professional reports that investment from a potential joint venture could fund products based on the IMP, although this is not a commitment contained in the MoU itself.

Skoda CEO Klaus Zellmer described two scenarios in an interview with T-Online: remaining independent or taking on a local partner. He said: "I am convinced that we can become better with an Indian partner: with local roots, local networks, and cultural ties to truly understand what is right and important in India."

Zellmer said: "To benefit from the growth in India, we must continue to invest massively. That's why we are evaluating different scenarios. One is stand-alone: we remain independent. The other option is to team up with a strong local partner who would contribute financially to the investments."

Handelsblatt reports that Volkswagen is willing to cede majority control to JSW. The Economic Times reports that the parties are discussing a structure under which JSW would hold 51% and Volkswagen 49%, while Reuters says the companies have described any prospective arrangement as involving joint control and a structured governance model. No ownership split has been formally confirmed.

JSW's existing EV interests

JSW already operates a joint venture with SAIC Group centred on the MG Motor brand. JSW MG Motor India launched the Hector Tomahawk EV and PHEV in August 2026, with EV deliveries beginning in September. JSW also plans to establish its own EV brand, JSW Motors, using technology from Chery.

The potential partnership with Skoda Auto would add another EV-related programme to JSW's existing automotive interests, with the proposed cooperation potentially supporting the development and production of vehicles based on the India Main Platform.

Skoda and Volkswagen's India operations

Skoda Auto Volkswagen India recorded an increase of around 36% in domestic sales in 2025, while Skoda itself more than doubled its sales. Skoda has been present in India since 2001, while Volkswagen entered the market in 2007.

Skoda holds roughly 3% of the Indian passenger vehicle market. Previous Volkswagen Group partnerships with Suzuki and Tata did not continue, while negotiations with Mahindra in 2024 also did not result in an agreement.