According to an official release, Škoda Auto India sold more than 16,000 units in 2008, a 28.5% increase from 2007 sales totals. Furthermore, SAIPL is aiming to become the strategic hub in South and Eastern Asian markets for the Škoda Auto marque, by exporting its locally produced products to Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand. As of April 2009, it has sold over 61,000 units since operations began in November 2001.