Skoda Rapid Cabriolet built by Indian students showcased by the brand
Although the Skoda Rapid is no longer in production, Skoda surprised us with a one-of-a-kind convertible version of the Rapid. This unique Skoda Rapid Convertible was designed and developed as the first-ever student car project from Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited. A group of selected students from the Group Academy’s Dual Vocational Training in Mechatronics program is behind this project.
The open-top Skoda Rapid Convertible has several modifications compared to the stock version, including a retractable Skoda badge on the bonnet, an LED lip light at the front, and yellow accents on the front bumper, door panels, and brake callipers. The cabin of this project features seat-mounted seatbelts, as there are no B-pillars in this car. The team also reworked the cabin, giving it a sporty-looking scarlet-red upholstery and a touchscreen infotainment system. Skoda has not mentioned any changes to the engine under the hood. However, it is expected that the stock engine and gearbox are retained, with only exterior and interior alterations carried out.
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Piyush Arora, Managing Director and CEO of Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited said,
Sarma Chillara, Group Head of HR and Administration Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited said,
This car is one of the projects falling under the brand’s Azubi Student Car project, which is currently in its ninth edition. However, the Rapid convertible is the first car from Skoda’s Indian arm. With this project, the Indian Academy intends to make the Student Car Program a regular part of the syllabus for students. To make it more competitive, the student selection criteria will be improved, and the program will involve one cycle of projects every year.
Since 2011, the Academy’s Dual Vocational Training in Mechatronics program has been contributing to enhancing the skills of 10th-grade school students. Adopted from Germany, this program includes a full-time 3.5-year course, which allows the students to focus on developing their talent and expertise.
Piyush Arora, Managing Director and CEO of Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited, expressed his thoughts on this development of the first project car. He said that this initiative shows how the company is committed to nurturing talent and promoting innovation in India’s automotive industry.