Škoda Auto Volkswagen India (SAVWIPL) announces the Student Car Project, a part of government’s ‘Skill India’ initiative, in which students of mechatronics have created a pickup truck by joining a Volkswagen Taigun SUV and Virtus sedan.
Pickup Truck: Student Car Project details
There were various phases of the project, which included car concept finalisation to idea collection, market analysis, research and development, procurement, packing, and final car testing for launch over a period of nine months to develop it.
The students designed and 3D-printed various components, showcasing their skills in advanced manufacturing techniques to tackle design challenges. They also outfitted the vehicle with specialised features such as underbody protection, studded tires, ambient lighting, and unique roof-mounted lights, finalising the rugged pickup truck design.
The students were mentored by skilled professionals at SAVWIPL, throughout the project, who helped them to collaborate with suppliers and industry experts, to bring innovative ideas. This project is one of the company’s efforts to align with the government’s emphasis on youth skilling, as outlined in the recent Union Budget 2024 announcements.
The Project: Origin
The SAVWIPL Academy’s Dual Vocational Training in mechatronics, launched in 2011, is a key program for upskilling high school students. This full-time, three and a half year course, based on Germany’s vocational system, prepares young talents for the automobile industry. It provides technological creativity, confidence, and problem-solving skills while allowing students to explore the automotive sector and learn about future trends and VW Group standards.
Andreas Dick, member of the Board of Management for Production and Logistics, Škoda Auto, said, “The successful completion of Student Car Project 2.0 in India is a showcase of how young talent can learn to use cutting-edge technology, precision, and efficiency to create industry-leading vehicles. By bringing global manufacturing practices to India, our goal is to create environments where young innovators can grow into the changemakers of tomorrow, strengthening India’s role as a global manufacturing hub. Our such projects not only focus on strengthening manufacturing capabilities but also ensure that the next generation is ready to drive innovation on a global scale.”
Piyush Arora, Managing Director and CEO of Škoda Auto Volkswagen India, said, “It is impressive to see the unique concept of developing a Pickup truck by our Mechatronics students as a part of the Student Car Project. Our unique Student Car project is a great platform that gives wings to the imagination of the students to share the future of mobility. Through this project we are aligned with the country’s ‘Skill India’ mission wherein we are instilling a culture of hands-on learning where local talent can thrive in a global ecosystem. We firmly believe that these initiatives of the Government will be fundamental for a ‘Viksit Bharat’. At Škoda Auto Volkswagen India, we are committed to the overall development of the society, supporting local communities and empowering the youth.”
Škoda has a global Azubi Student Car Project through the Škoda Academy, which showcases the high-quality training at its Vocational School and supports the “Skill India” initiative. This project gives students hands-on experience in evaluating and implementing ideas, helping them better understand theoretical concepts and improve their manufacturing skills.
