Learning curves

摘要

If Skoda Auto was still an independent business, it is more than likely that it would no longer exist unless it was subsidised by the state. As part of the Volkswagen Audi Group (VAG), though, is has been allowed to grow and prosper in a way that few would have thought possible at the time of its takeover. However, it has been the result of a careful balancing act that has enabled it to succeed. Such was the shocking reputation of the old Skoda company that there was no way that the new owners could adopt a hands-off policy, but the risk was that it would be transformed into a poor man's Volkswagen. To a certain extent this has happened, the result of an over-indulgence in platform sharing, but this has been to Skoda's advantage. Many buyers have recognised the fact that underneath the bodyshell is VW technology, drivetrain and running gear that can be purchased at a far lower price because it is wearing the Skoda nameplate.