Gurpratap Boparai has taken charge as the managing director of Skoda Auto India. Boparai, who has extensive experience in the international and Indian automobile industry as well as expertise in managing large manufacturing operations, will be reporting directly to Skoda Auto CEO Bernhard Maier. He will be responsible for Skoda’s development in the domestic market.

"Mr Boparai’s appointment comes at an opportune moment when Skoda is set to strengthen its position in the Indian market. He brings with him vast knowledge of the Indian automotive landscape, which will enable the company to implement a comprehensive expansion plan. With him on board, we will continue to vigorously press ahead with the growth of our brand in India," said Maier.

Gurpratap Boparai said, "I am excited about my new role at Skoda Auto India and look forward to working with the young and dynamic team. I am confident that Skoda’s strong engineering tradition, emotional designs, superior technology, attractive model range, renewed after-sales impetus combined with the strategic initiatives to build new models will take Skoda India to a strong leadership position in the next years."

India a key market in Skoda’s future growth strategy
Skoda says the Indian market holds tremendous importance for its future growth strategy. In 2017, the Czech carmaker’s sales in India rose almost by 30 percent to 17,438 cars (+30% growth over 2016). Skoda Auto India, which has 70 dealerships and 70 service centres, currently offers four models for sale in India: the Octavia, Superb and Rapid sedans and the Kodiaq SUV, which was launched in October 2017. While the Rapid is manufactured at the Pune plant, the Octavia, Superb and Kodiaq are produced in Aurangabad.

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