Skoda launches new SUV for Chinese market

The brand new SUV Skoda Kodiaq is unveiled at the Paris International Motorshow on September 29, 2016. [File Photo: IC]

Next month, at the Beijing motor show, Czech auto manufacturer Skoda will launch a new SUV, the Kodiaq.

The Kodiaq is notable for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it will be offered solely for sale in China. This move reflects similar product offerings from several leading manufacturers over recent months, including parent company VW.

Secondly, the fact that Skoda is targeting the Kodiaq at Chinese consumers illustrates the importance of China to the brand.

Indeed, the firm is planning to double its sales in China within the next two years, which explains the desire to satisfy the increasingly popular market for SUVs in the country.

Interestingly, whilst planning to boost sales in China, Skoda seems to be struggling to meet demand at home in Europe.

The firm has been in discussion with unions at its main plant in Mlada Boleslav to open the production line on Saturdays.

Skoda argues that this is essential in order to avoid losing sales due to a lack of supply.

Other options for increasing vehicle production include building cars at VW plants, however these are also understood to be operating at close to their maximum capacity.