India’s First Petrol-Powered SUV Conquers Mount Everest’s North Face Base Camp. This remarkable vehicle has been acknowledged by both India and the Asia Book of Records for its achievement.
Mumbai: In a remarkable display of engineering, resilience, and exploration, Škoda Auto India has achieved a historic milestone with the Škoda Kodiaq. It is now the first petrol-powered SUV from India to successfully reach the North Face Base Camp of Mount Everest. This extraordinary accomplishment has been officially acknowledged by both the India Book of Records and the Asia Book of Records.
Commenting on this impressive accomplishment, Ashish Gupta, Brand Director of Škoda Auto India, stated, “At Škoda Auto India, we believe that exploration propels progress. This achievement is a clear testament to that belief and aligns perfectly with our strategy of staying relevant, driving differentiation, and building trust. It is relevant as it mirrors the increasing aspirations of Indian customers who seek to go further and demand more from their vehicles. It is differentiated because no other petrol SUV has faced such a significant challenge and emerged victorious. Most importantly, it reinforces trust—in our products, our engineering, and our dedication to safety, quality, and reliability. We will continue to focus on facilitating journeys that transcend the ordinary.”
Spanning over 6,000 kilometres across India, Nepal, and China, the Škoda Kodiaq traversed extreme altitudes, sub-zero temperatures, and challenging terrains to reach the Mount Everest North Face Base Camp on the Tibetan side. This expedition showcases the strength of the Kodiaq as a combination of cutting-edge technology, European design, and real-world performance.
In the first half of 2025, Škoda Auto India achieved its highest half-yearly sales ever, reaching 36,194 units. This accomplishment reflects a remarkable 134% increase compared to the first half of 2024, propelling the brand into the ranks of the Top 7 car manufacturers in India. Earlier in July, Škoda also surpassed 300 customer touchpoints, now established in 172 cities, which underscores its dedication to strengthening connections with customers nationwide. With a future-ready portfolio, a strong emphasis on customer-centricity, and a rapidly expanding network, Škoda Auto India is making significant strides in its 25th year in India and 130th year globally, driving its journey of growth with relevance and trust.