In an innovative move towards sustainable development and community empowerment, Škoda Auto Volkswagen India (SAVWIPL) is supporting Škoda Auto a.s. “Curiosity Fuel’ initiative by connecting with Indian coffee planters. This unique project endorses the nation’s ‘Make-in-India’ initiative by enabling Indian coffee to reach European markets directly.

Škoda Auto a.s.  is using coffee bean husks as a tanning agent for leather seats in Škoda’s Kodiaq and Octavia models, leading the way in eco-friendly automotive manufacturing. This innovative use of an agricultural by-product exemplifies the group’s commitment to the circular economy, transforming what was once considered waste into a valuable resource.

India, the world's eighth-largest coffee producer with an export value of close to $1.25 billion, is known for its unique coffee flavours,. The annual coffee consumption at Škoda Auto Volkswagen India's headquarters in the Czech Republic amounts to approximately 25 tonnes. Recognizing India’s rich coffee heritage, the brand strategically chose to directly source the coffee and, in turn, support family-owned coffee farms in Coorg. The 'Curiosity Fuel' initiative is redefining the coffee supply chain by directly engaging with local farmers and eliminating multiple intermediaries. This approach not only ensures fair trade practices certified by the Rainforest Alliance but also promotes permaculture farming, emphasizing ecological and social responsibility.

Škoda Auto a.s. has rolled out a new coffee called ‘Curiosity Fuel’ across the company in the Czech Republic. This special blend is grown, roasted, and packaged in a way that is friendly to both nature and farmers. Specially created for Škoda Auto a.s., ‘Curiosity Fuel’ is designed to inspire staff with fresh ideas and further the group’s sustainability objectives as outlined in Strategy 2030.

Karsten Schnake, Board Member- Procurement, Škoda Auto a.s. commented, “Our 'Curiosity Fuel' initiative highlights Škoda Auto's commitment to innovative sustainability by integrating social, environmental, and circular economy principles into our supply chain. From ethically sourced coffee for our employees to utilizing coffee byproducts in our vehicles, we're setting new sustainability standards in the automotive sector.”

Piyush Arora, Managing Director & CEO, Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited, added, "Our 'Curiosity Fuel' project demonstrates Škoda Auto Volkswagen India's commitment to holistic sustainability. By bridging the gap between Coorg's coffee planters and our global operations, we're fostering community development. This initiative exemplifies our belief that true progress in the automotive sector must encompass environmental responsibility and community empowerment. It's about creating a symbiotic relationship between our industry and India's rich agricultural heritage."

By connecting agriculture and automotive innovation, Škoda is showcasing how cross-sector collaboration can drive sustainable development and rural prosperity, promoting a more regenerative and inclusive economic model.