Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) and Skoda Auto Volkswagen India (SAVWIPL) are on the verge of finalizing a 50:50 joint venture agreement. This collaboration will focus on sharing costs, technology, and vehicle platforms, with a particular emphasis on developing battery-powered SUVs for both the Indian and international markets. An official announcement is anticipated by the end of the year.

While the joint venture will include some fossil fuel-based models, the primary focus will be on electric SUVs. This collaboration will utilize existing production plants in Chakan, near Pune, owned by both SAVWIPL and Mahindra. The vehicles sold under Volkswagen, Skoda, Audi, and Porsche brands will not be part of this agreement.

This partnership is vital for both companies. Mahindra intends to invest ₹12,000 crore in its EV business over the next three years, and this joint venture will support their objective of having electric vehicles constitute 20-30% of their SUV sales by 2027. For the VW Group, this venture represents a significant move toward strengthening its position in India’s expanding auto market, where it has faced challenges competing with Japanese, South Korean, and local brands.

The joint venture discussions have advanced through several rounds of both virtual and in-person meetings. This collaboration builds on a previous supply agreement for components of Volkswagen’s MEB platform, which Mahindra will utilize in its forthcoming Born Electric (BE) models.

For the VW Group, this move aligns with the Indian government’s push for electric vehicles and stricter carbon emission regulations, requiring significant investments. Skoda has identified India as a key market outside Europe, especially as they slow down operations in China and exit Russia. This partnership marks a significant step for Mahindra as they expand their presence in the EV market, with plans to launch seven new electric models by 2030.

This joint venture could mark a significant milestone for both Mahindra and Skoda Auto Volkswagen in India. It represents a major collaboration between an Indian and a global automaker, aimed at addressing the evolving automotive market with a strong focus on electric vehicles.