Ashish Gupta named Škoda India Brand Director, Nitin Kohli takes Volkswagen role

Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL), on Monday, announced a significant leadership transition, effective May 1, 2025. Ashish Gupta, currently the Brand Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars, will take over as the new Brand Director of Škoda India.

Gupta replaces Petr Janeba, who has served in the role and will now return to Škoda Auto’s headquarters in the Czech Republic after his tenure in India. He brings more than 20 years of experience in the automotive industry, including 12 years with the Volkswagen Group in various roles.

Piyush Arora, CEO and Managing Director of SAVWIPL, highlighted the company’s focus on developing local talent and said, “These leadership changes show our commitment to empowering Indian leaders who understand the market’s needs. Ashish and Nitin’s experience will guide Škoda and Volkswagen into their next phase of growth.”

For the past five years, Gupta has led Volkswagen’s brand efforts in India, successfully implementing the India 2.0 strategy, which introduced models like the Taigun and Virtus. These launches strengthened Volkswagen’s market position.

According to the company statement, Gupta, in his new role, will work to boost the brand’s growth, build stronger customer relationships, expand the dealership network, and enhance Škoda’s presence in India.

Taking Gupta’s place as Brand Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars is Nitin Kohli, who currently oversees Sales and Operations at Audi India. Kohli, with over 25 years of experience in automotive sales, including 12 years at SAVWIPL, has a strong background in business development and strategic planning.

Petr Janeba, a Škoda veteran since 1999, played a key role in strengthening the brand’s position in India. He led the launch of the Kylaq SUV and achieved record monthly sales. As per media reports, Škoda aims to sell 8,000 Kylaq units monthly by the end of 2025, supporting the company’s target of surpassing 100,000 vehicle sales annually in India starting in 2026.