Skoda Kodiaq : Skoda Auto India has set a remarkable automotive milestone with its Kodiaq SUV becoming the first petrol-powered vehicle from India to reach the Mount Everest North Face Base Camp. This achievement has been officially recognized by both the India Book of Records and the Asia Book of Records, highlighting the vehicle’s endurance and engineering prowess.
The Journey and Its Challenges
The expedition covered over 6,000 kilometers across India, Nepal, and China, navigating extreme altitudes, sub-zero temperatures, and rugged terrains before arriving at the base camp in Tibet. The successful journey underscores the Kodiaq’s advanced engineering, robust performance, and adaptability in some of the world’s most demanding driving conditions.
Strategic Importance for Skoda in India
The achievement is significant for Skoda Auto India which is at the crucible of its growth story in the country. In the second quarter of 2025, the company revealed record half-yearly sales, 36,194 units, up 134% on the same period in 2024. This success has helped propel Skoda among the seven largest automakers in India.
The Kodiaq’s feat reinforces Skoda’s reputation for producing durable and high-performing vehicles, strengthening its position in India’s competitive SUV market. Additionally, it aligns with the brand’s strategy of enhancing customer trust through real-world demonstrations of reliability and innovation.
Behind the Scenes The Grueling Everest Challenge
The Path From Plains to the Roof of the World
The Kodiaq started out in India, went trekking through the rough and tough rain forested Terai plains to enter Nepal only to drive up into the Himalayas. The toughest section was the last climb in Tibet’s Rongbuk Valley, where the thin air, high and icy gradient and choking cold strained every component to their limits, from engine and gearbox to electronics.
Market Trends and Skoda’s Expansion
Over the years, the Indian automobile sector has been increasingly inclining towards the SUVs, and that too in the premium range. Skoda has countered by increasing its retail touchpoints and has now by a presence of more than 300 customer touch points in 172 cities. Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said, “This milestone is proof that Skoda Auto India’s efforts are starting to bear fruit in the highly competitive landscape of India.
Skoda’s Legacy and Future Outlook
Skoda Auto India The company has been operating in India since 2001 and it currently offers four models — Kylaq, Slavia, Kushaq and Kodiaq. Globally the brand has a solid manufacturing presence deploying facilities in the Czech Republic, China, Slovakia and India. It’s a great way to mark 25 years of Skoda in India and 130 years internationally, and a great marketing initiative to show how the brand is synonymous with exploration, engineering prowess and insouciance in the face of adversity. Going ahead, the company will use the platform to increase its market share in India’s burgeoning SUV segment as well.
Final Thoughts A Win for Skoda and Indian Automotive Pride
The Kodiaq’s Everest ascent is gimmickry with a difference; it’s a symbol of engineering strength that strikes a chord with aspirational buyers. As Skoda India completes 25 years and Skoda global completes 130 years,we are reaffirming the brand’s promise of continued innovation,enhanced durability as well as value proposition towards loyal patronage of millions of owners across India. And for Indian consumers, it’s a reminder that premium SUVs aren’t just about urban luxury — but can accomplish the extraordinary, too. And for Skoda, it’s a powerful statement: If it can climb Everest, it can cope with anything.
