Volkswagen Group has chosen to use a cost-efficient adaptation of its Compact Main Platform (CMP) to develop mass-market electric vehicles (EVs) for India, Autocar India reported. The India-specific platform, dubbed the India Main Platform (IMP), will underpin four electric SUVs, including two models each from Volkswagen and Skoda, according to the report.
The IMP platform is being designed with regional adaptations to ensure affordability and compliance with India’s regulatory landscape. The platform’s flexibility will also enable the company to position its EVs competitively in a market where pricing plays a critical role. Additionally, SAVWIPL, the company’s local subsidiary, plans to target global exports of these models, though specific markets remain undisclosed.
The upcoming electric SUVs are expected to measure around 4.3 to 4.4 meters in length, placing them in one of India’s fastest-growing vehicle segments. These models are likely to compete with offerings from local and global automakers, including Mahindra’s highly anticipated BE 6. SAVWIPL is also considering the potential for seven-seat EV variants to address demand for larger vehicles, particularly in the family and utility segments.
Volkswagen’s decision to adopt IMP comes after evaluating other platforms, such as Mahindra’s INGLO and a scaled-down version of its MEB21 platform, referred to as MEB21G. While these alternatives offered certain advantages, they were deemed too costly or unsuitable for India’s cost-sensitive market.
The shift to IMP represents a strategic pivot aimed at addressing local consumer preferences and enhancing Volkswagen’s competitiveness in India’s burgeoning EV market. The platform’s development aligns with Volkswagen’s broader strategy to expand its global EV footprint by tailoring its solutions to regional markets.
With the IMP platform in place, Volkswagen is positioning itself to tap into India’s growing appetite for electric SUVs while simultaneously bolstering its export potential.