#ExploreŠkoda Podcast

Welcome to a brand new season of Explore Škoda, a podcast looking at the latest innovations in the world of Škoda.

This week, for our first edition, we’ll be getting the lowdown on the brand new Elroq from the people who designed it and brought it to market. 

This is the first production car with Skoda’s new design language - Modern Solid. 

So what's new about it? Definitely the lights which is something we're going to discuss with the designer who created them, Petr Nevřela. And we’ll also invite you into the interior, to talk about the Elroq’s infotainment system with Radek Špic. 

Thanks for tuning in!

Mladá Boleslav, 31 October 2024 – Škoda Auto maintains its positive momentum: deliveries to customers in the first nine months of 2024 increased to 671,300 vehicles (+4.5% YoY). This growth was supported by a strong third quarter, with 222,700 vehicles delivered (+6%). The automaker is performing particularly well in Europe, outpacing the overall European market. The company’s financial figures underscore its position of strength: revenue increased to €20.4 billion (+3.8%), operating profit rose by 34.8% to €1.7 billion, and the return on sales (RoS) reached 8.3% (6.4%). The most successful markets in terms of absolute growth in the first three quarters are Germany, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, Poland, and France. The all-electric Enyaq remains one of the best-selling BEVs overall in key markets like Germany, where it also ranked first among electric cars in September. This result makes the Enyaq the second best-selling electric car in Germany in the first nine months of 2024. Škoda has solidified its position as the fourth best-selling brand in Europe. It aims to build on this success: the recently launched all-electric compact SUV, Elroq, stands out as the most affordable EV in its class, taking into account its extensive standard equipment and battery size. In a first for the brand, sales began immediately after its premiere. 

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Mladá Boleslav, 22 October 2024 – The Škoda Felicia was introduced in October 1994 as a modern five-door hatchback successor to the Favorit. Six months later, the practical estate variant followed. It was the first car developed in collaboration with the Volkswagen Group after joining forces with Škoda in 1991. Between 1994 and 2001, more than 1.4 million Felicia models were produced, with the car also achieving success in motorsport.

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Mladá Boleslav, 16 October 2024 – The non-profit educational institute 42 Prague held its first international hackathon from 11 to 15 October, bringing together competing teams from various countries to explore innovative ideas and solutions for the Škoda Connect and MyŠkoda apps. The winning team, Škoders from 42 Heilbronn campus, was awarded for their project ‘interactive range map for electric vehicles after charging’. This hackathon followed similar events where Škoda Auto gathered programmers to create digital solutions in the fields of sustainability and IT. 

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Mladá Boleslav, 15 October 2024 – With the all-new Škoda Kylaq, Škoda is set to unveil the next phase of its product campaign in the Indian market on 6 November 2024. The compact SUV will expand Škoda’s SUV line-up in India, joining the Kodiaq and Kushaq models. With the Kylaq, Škoda will be entering the popular sub-4-metre segment, which accounts for nearly 30% of the Indian car market and is among the fastest-growing segments in the country. The Kylaq features elements of the new, global Modern Solid design language. It boasts a modern, bold, and robust look, proven Škoda driving dynamics, and uncompromising safety features. After the Kushaq and Slavia models, the Kylaq is the third Škoda model locally developed and produced in India, the brand’s largest market outside Europe.

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Mladá Boleslav, 1 October 2024 – Today in Prague, Škoda Auto celebrated the world premiere of the all-new Škoda Elroq. The event was attended by over 350 international media representatives who watched Škoda Auto CEO Klaus Zellmer – alongside Board Members Martin Jahn and Johannes Neft, and Head of Škoda Design Oliver Stefani – unveil the first model to feature the brand’s new Modern Solid design language.

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Mladá Boleslav, 25 September 2024 – Škoda Auto is offering a sneak preview of the all-new Elroq, releasing a video teaser that highlights key exterior details of the uncovered compact SUV. The Elroq, which is the first Škoda model to feature the brand’s new Modern Solid design language, will celebrate its world premiere on 1 October at 19:30 CEST, broadcasted live on Škoda’s Instagram channel. The unveiling will take place on a media cube in Prague city centre. Afterwards, a recording of the event will be available on the Škoda Storyboard and Škoda’s YouTube channel.

Mladá Boleslav, 13 September 2024 – For the past 25 years, the Škoda Fabia has played an indispensable role in the history of the Škoda brand and the small car segment. The first generation made its debut on 14 September 1999 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, quickly winning over customers with its advanced technology. The subsequent three generations built on that foundation, with nearly five million units sold to date. The Fabia has also left a lasting mark on motorsport, entering the scene in 2003 with the Škoda Fabia WRC, a legacy that the current Fabia RS Rally2 continues with considerable success.

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Mladá Boleslav, 12 September 2024 – The life story of Petr Hrdlička, who celebrates his 90th birthday today, is closely tied to the Czech automotive industry and the Škoda brand. Thanks to his expertise in modern car design, he became the Director of Technical Development, where his main task was to develop the Škoda Favorit model. He also left his mark on the Škoda 1000 MB and the evolution of rear-engine Škoda cars in the 1980s. 

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Mladá Boleslav, 9 September 2024 – On #WorldEVDay, Škoda unveils new details of the all-new Elroq, its first production model to adopt the Modern Solid design language. The first exterior sketches of the Elroq provide a sneak preview of the standout design, including a new front with Škoda lettering, Tech-Deck Face and Matrix-LED headlights integrated into a bold bumper. Other visual highlights include details in Unique Dark Chrome and the new Elroq-exclusive Timiano Green colour.

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Mladá Boleslav, 2 September 2024 – On 31 August, the 11th iteration of the Škoda Classic Tour saw 212 crews with historic and vintage cars line up at the start near the Škoda Museum in Mladá Boleslav. The 126 km route included a drive through Škoda’s main production plant nearby and an intensive itinerary with three precision trials and a photo session with camouflaged Škoda Elroq prototypes.

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Mladá Boleslav/Kvasiny/Vrchlabí, 2 September 2024 – This year, Škoda Auto is commemorating anniversaries at its Kvasiny and Vrchlabí plants: The Kvasiny site has been producing cars for 90 years and was integrated into Škoda’s production network in 1947. The history of the Vrchlabí plant spans 160 years, yet the first Škoda models did not roll off its production line until 1946. In 1945, both facilities were nationalised and incorporated as part of Škoda, then known as AZNP (Automobilové závody, národní podnik). In recent years, these plants have undergone a radical transformation, extensively incorporating Industry 4.0 technologies. At Kvasiny, Škoda currently produces the Karoq, Kodiaq, and Octavia series, while the Vrchlabí plant focuses on manufacturing DQ200 automatic direct-shift transmissions. Both sites play a crucial role in advancing the company’s sustainability strategy, having achieved significant milestones in recent years.

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Mladá Boleslav/ Kvasiny, 29 August 2024 – The first updated Škoda Octavia built at the Kvasiny plant has rolled off the production line. The production of additional units of the brand's bestseller in Kvasiny was made possible thanks to the new-generation Superb now being manufactured at the Volkswagen plant in Bratislava. At the same time, production of the Octavia continues at Škoda’s main facility in Mladá Boleslav. Around 7.5 million units have been produced since the first modern-generation Octavia was introduced in 1996. 

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Mladá Boleslav, 21 August 2024 – On Sunday, 18 August, the third iteration of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift concluded with the eighth stage, a challenging mountain stage from Le Grand-Bornand to Alpe d’Huez. The overall winner was Katarzyna Niewiadoma, while Marianne Vos clinched the points classification. During the award ceremony, Johannes Neft, Škoda Auto Board Member for Technical Development, presented her with the green crystal trophy created by the Škoda Design department. Škoda Auto was the main partner of the race for the third time, providing the organisers with 70 electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The fully electric Škoda Enyaq served as the ‘Red Car’ for Race Director Marion Rousse. This year, the partnership with the organising body A.S.O. was extended until 2028, encompassing 20 major cycling races for both men and women.

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Mladá Boleslav, 20 August 2024 – The all-new Škoda Elroq brings a fresh perspective to sustainable automotive design with its innovative use of interior materials like Recytitan and Technofil. In line with the brand’s Modern Solid design language, the Elroq’s interior emphasises simplicity, spaciousness, and clean lines. At the same time, the selected materials underscore Škoda’s commitment to environmental protection and reducing the CO2 footprint of its vehicles: the seats and upholstery fabrics are made from recycled plastic bottles and, for the first time, recycled post-consumer clothing. These are carefully reprocessed into high-quality new yarns and fabrics for the Elroq. The Czech car manufacturer thus takes the next step towards further realising its sustainability goals. 

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Mladá Boleslav, 13 August 2024 – Škoda Auto served as the official partner to the Prague Pride Festival for the third consecutive year. Through this partnership, the Czech carmaker emphasises its commitment to respect, acceptance, equity, diversity and mutual understanding. As in previous years, Škoda employees also took part in the Pride Parade – the highlight of the Festival – including members of Škoda’s employee resource group (ERG), Škoda Proud. This year marked a special milestone with the Škoda Auto Company Brass Orchestra providing the musical backdrop for the first time. Throughout the Festival week, Prague Pride highlighted critical issues and the needs of the LGBTQ+ community through a diverse range of programmes aiming to amplify their voices.

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Mladá Boleslav, 8 August 2024 – Škoda Auto is the official main partner of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift for the third consecutive year. From 12 to 18 August, 154 riders in 22 teams will embark on a 950 km route across eight stages through the Netherlands, Belgium and France. Škoda Auto is providing the organisers with 70 electric and plug-in hybrid Škoda vehicles. Race Director Marion Rousse will oversee the event from an all-electric Enyaq, which will be serving as a Red Car. Fans can stay up-to-date with the latest news from the peloton and behind-the-scenes insights on the WeLoveCycling social media channels, with posts shared by Polish rider Katarzyna ‘Kasia’ Niewiadoma.

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Painting car bodies is a highly sophisticated process that is continuously evolving. One of the most advanced paint shops in Europe is situated in Mladá Boleslav. What sets it apart? How does the painting process unfold? Which stage is the most challenging? Pavel Saska, Paint Shops Process Planning Coordinator at Škoda Auto, provides the answers.

Mladá Boleslav, 2 August 2024 – Škoda Auto achieved solid sales and financial results in the first six months of 2024, proving its resilience and flexibility amid a challenging market environment. The key financial figures underscore the brand’s strong position: sales revenue of €13.652 billion remains comparable to H1 2023 (-0.7%); operating profit rose to €1.149 billion (2023: +26.1%); return on sales increased to 8.4% (6.6%); net cash flow totalled €1.408 billion (+135.8%). The positive development in operating profit is largely due to a better mix of cars sold, favourable exchange rate effects, and the consistent implementation of the Next Level Efficiency+ programme. The increase in cash flow stems from higher operating profit and improved working capital. The automaker delivered 448,600 vehicles from January to June, 3.8% higher than in the same period last year. The Octavia was once again the brand’s bestseller, with deliveries up by 24.1%, while the all-electric Enyaq remains one of the best-selling BEVs overall in key markets like Germany. In recent months, Škoda significantly updated its broad portfolio, including efficient ICE models as well as plug-in hybrids, mild-hybrids and fully electric models. For the first time, Škoda rose to fourth position in European registrations, proving this balanced approach resonates with customers. This autumn, Škoda Auto will be introducing the fully electric Elroq model in the compact SUV category, the largest sub-segment in Europe by volume.

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Škoda Auto's portfolio has expanded with the all-electric model Elroq. This attractive new compact SUV stands out with its new design language Modern Solid, spaciousness, and agility. Elroq is ideal for both city driving and beyond. We discussed its design, advanced technologies and assistance systems with Elroq Project Manager Radek Špic.

Mladá Boleslav/Nice, 22 July 2024 - A camouflaged Škoda Elroq, the brand’s latest all-electric model to be unveiled this autumn, joined the final-stage time trial of this year's 111th edition of the Tour de France to accompany the riders. The overall winner, Tadej Pogačar, received the popular crystal glass trophy created by Škoda Design, and Škoda Auto CEO Klaus Zellmer presented a green crystal trophy to Biniam Girmay, the points classification winner. Škoda Auto has been supporting the Tour for twenty-one years now, and this partnership including providing the official fleet has been extended to last until 2028. The brand is currently a partner of 20 top cycling events, including the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift since 2022.

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Mladá Boleslav, 10 July 2024 – Top ratings for the all-new models Škoda Kodiaq and Superb: Both models have achieved the maximum five stars in the independent Euro NCAP crash safety reference test. The Škoda Kodiaq achieved 84% of the total maximum points, while the Škoda Superb achieved 87% of the total maximum points. This result continues the string of top ratings for the Czech carmaker, even under the more stringent assessment criteria introduced in 2023. Each new Škoda model since 2008 has achieved a five-star rating.

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Mladá Boleslav, 10 July 2024 – Škoda Motorsport has now sold 100 vehicles of its latest rally model, the Škoda Fabia RS Rally2. The 100th vehicle was handed over to Romanian driver Andrei Gîrtofan, the front runner of the Romanian championship, during a small ceremony held at the team’s head office in Mladá Boleslav.

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Mladá Boleslav, 4 June 2024 – Motorsport has been part of Škoda’s DNA for more than 120 years. This heritage is traditionally reflected in the Škoda RS range. And the new Škoda Octavia RS is no exception, as Oliver Solberg confirms. The young rally driver from Sweden took the sportiest Octavia model for an extensive test drive.

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Mladá Boleslav, 28 June 2024 – The bright yellow, all-electric Škoda Enyaq, which covered more than 33,000 kilometres on a challenging expedition across Africa, has become part of the Škoda Museum’s collection. By embarking on their adventurous journey, Dutch explorers Renske Cox and Maarten van Pel hoped to inspire a shift towards more sustainable travel. After withstanding thousands of kilometres in harsh conditions, the modified vehicle successfully returned to the Netherlands. The daring travellers offered the car to Škoda Auto and received a new Škoda Enyaq 85x Laurin & Klement at the Customer Centre.

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What are the key pillars for digital transformation at Škoda Auto? What role does AI play in car manufacturing? Or what trends are emerging in electric vehicle production? We also discussed sustainable manufacturing and future outlooks. We talked about all this with Mr. Andreas Dick, Member of the Board for Production and Logistics at Škoda Auto.

Mladá Boleslav, 27 June 2024 – Škoda Auto marks its 21st consecutive year as the official main partner of the Tour de France. The 111th iteration of the world’s most famous cycling race begins on 29 June with the Grand Départ in Florence, Italy. For the first time, the event will not finish in Paris this year, due to the Olympic Games starting in the French capital just a few days later. On most stages, the all-electric Škoda Enyaq will be serving Tour director Christian Prudhomme as the ‘Red Car’, leading the peloton throughout the race. The route will take the 176 riders and 205 Škoda support vehicles across 21 stages and nearly 3,500 kilometres to reach Nice on 21 July. Through the carmaker’s social media channels and the WeLoveCycling website, fans can access exclusive background information and compete for exciting prizes. In February this year, Škoda Auto underlined its commitment to cycling, extending its partnership with the cycling event’s organiser, A.S.O., until 2028. The Czech carmaker is also supporting the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift for the third consecutive year.

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Mladá Boleslav, 26 June 2024 – The functionality of Škoda’s voice assistant Laura has been significantly expanded thanks to the integration of Chat Pro from technology partner Cerence Inc.. Alongside previously available sources of information, the Chat Pro function is now directly connected to the advanced AI tool ChatGPT to answer questions beyond the scope of Laura’s original knowledge. The feature is now available in Škoda Enyaq family models with the new 4.0 software version released for the 2024 model year, the new-generation Škoda Superb and Kodiaq as well as the updated Škoda Octavia. User and car data are secure at all times.

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How long does it take to develop lights for one model? What is the most technologically challenging aspect of the whole process? How are Scala and Kamiq different from other models? What does the headlight testing process look like? Or what are the trends? All of this is answered by Front Lighting Development Engineer at Škoda Auto Vilém Holeček.

Mladá Boleslav, 11 June 2024 – Effective from 3 June 2024, Chan Park has assumed the role of Head of Interior Design at Škoda Auto. The alumnus of the Royal College of Art joins the Czech carmaker with a wealth of experience from several major automotive brands. In the future, the interior of Škoda’s production and concept vehicles will bear his signature. In addition to a minimalist design approach, Park will focus on enhancing the synergy between driver and vehicle. His predecessor, Peter Olah, is taking on a new role at Škoda Design and will be responsible for the Art Direction - One Design Identity in the future.

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Mladá Boleslav, 3 June 2024 – Škoda Auto has taken part in European Diversity Month for the fourth consecutive year. This initiative, promoted by the European Commission each May, underscores the importance of diversity and inclusion in both the workplace and society generally, especially in light of evolving work environments and the need to protect employee rights. Under the motto ‘Škoda Auto – A Place for Everyone’, the Czech carmaker has rolled out various initiatives focusing on fostering respect across generations and genders, and through international collaboration. In its most recent  Diversity Report 2023, Škoda Auto shares the most important milestones achieved last year, such as successfully increasing the proportion of women in management to 18.3% (up from 14.6% in 2021) and raising the share of international staff in leadership roles to 31%.

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Mladá Boleslav, 30 May 2024 – Škoda Auto has inaugurated new facilities for the Emissions Centre and a brand-new Simulation Centre in Mladá Boleslav. Following investments of almost €22 million, the laboratory will bolster the car manufacturer’s in-house development capabilities within the Technical Development department. The state-of-the-art technologies allow for the precise and accurate simulation of a wide range of climatic conditions, enabling comprehensive tests that mimic real-world operations. The new Simulation Centre houses a laboratory unique in the Czech Republic and the Volkswagen Group and is among the most modern facilities of its kind in Europe.

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Mladá Boleslav, 27 May 2024 – The Czech Republic has won the home IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship, which took place from 10 to 26 May. In a closely contested final, the Czechs won 2:0 against Switzerland in the capital of Prague yesterday and became only the fifth nation ever to win the tournament on their home ice. The final was attended by 17,413 fans at the sold-out arena. Škoda Auto Board Member for Sales and Marketing, Martin Jahn presented the MVP trophy to the tournament’s best player, the Swiss forward Kevin Fiala. The Škoda Design team has been creating these trophies since 2018. For the 31st time, the Czech carmaker was the official main sponsor of the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship.

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The dynamic presentation of The new Škoda Octavia took us to Southern Moravia. We thoroughly discussed the brand's bestseller from A to Z, with a particular emphasis on connectivity, which has noticeably advanced. Insights were provided by František Budinský, Škoda Connect Specialist, and Michal Polma, Product Marketing Specialist - Škoda Octavia.

Mladá Boleslav, 22 May 2024 – To mark the International Day for Biological Diversity, Škoda Auto is presenting its measures and projects aimed at promoting biodiversity around the world as part of its GreenFuture strategy. The carmaker’s goal is to minimise the environmental footprint of its business activities along the entire value chain. Moreover, Škoda continues to drive sustainable growth and supports the preservation of both biodiversity and sustainable ecosystems, in line with the Volkswagen Group’s new regenerate+ sustainability strategy. A comprehensive overview of Škoda’s sustainability measures can be found on the dedicated sustainability microsite. 

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Mladá Boleslav, 22 May 2024 – Škoda Auto has released the first official silhouette images of the all-new Elroq. The fully electric compact SUV is Škoda’s first production model to adopt the Modern Solid design language. The minimalist exterior combines robustness, functionality and authenticity, while conveying a sense of safety and strength. The world premiere of the Škoda Elroq in autumn 2024 marks the beginning of Škoda’s new e-model campaign, which will see the launch of six battery-electric models in the coming years.

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The flagship of Škoda's car portfolio with combustion engines is arriving with a new generation. Featuring the latest Matrix LED headlights and a new generation of adaptive DCC+ chassis and the latest generation of plug-in hybrid drive. We discussed all of this with product expert Superb, Jana Eliášová, and product manager Superb, Jiří Kučera. 

Mladá Boleslav, 7 May 2024 – Škoda Auto is the official main sponsor of the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship for the 31st time. The car manufacturer will also serve as the official mobility provider for the event, taking place in the Czech Republic from 10 to 26 May, and will supply a fleet of 45 vehicles. This will include the new generations of the Kodiaq and the Superb Combi, as well as the all-electric Enyaq Coupé RS. These models, alongside the Enyaq Coupé Respectline, will be on show at the two championship venues in Prague and Ostrava and their surroundings. Moreover, Škoda Auto is inviting fans to put their hockey skills to the test through various activities, while also offering opportunities to engage digitally with the game experience.

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Mladá Boleslav, 2 May 2024 – With the new Enyaq RS Race concept study, Škoda Auto is exploring new sustainability possibilities in motorsports while further enhancing the brand’s emotional appeal. Raising Škoda’s motorsport DNA to the next level, the Enyaq RS Race features an aggressive design highlighted by a massive rear wing. This concept offers insights into how motorsport technology can help accelerate the shift towards a dynamic and sustainable automotive future. It also serves as an ideal platform for the development and rigorous testing of cutting-edge electric technologies for future battery-electric production vehicles. 

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Mladá Boleslav, 2 May 2024 – Škoda Auto has begun 2024 with solid financial and sales results. Demand for the Czech car manufacturer’s models remains high: in the first three months of the year, Škoda Auto delivered 220,500 vehicles worldwide (+5.2%), while the order books continue to show promise. The return on sales (RoS) remains robust at 8.1%. Net cash flow reached €457 million (+10.7%). In the first quarter, there was a modest decline in sales revenue by 3.2%, totalling €6,574 million compared to the previous year, with an operating profit of €535 million, a decrease of 1.3%. This was partly due to rising material costs. In Germany, Škoda Auto’s largest single market, the company delivered 43,500 cars between January and March, up 3,300 units from the previous year. This represents the highest growth in deliveries for the brand in the first quarter of 2024. Poland and Ireland ranked second and third in sales growth. The Octavia remains the brand’s top-selling model, with 61,200 units delivered (+36%). Production of the upgraded version began in early April at the main plant in Mladá Boleslav. Additionally, the all-electric Enyaq model recorded global deliveries of 14,000 units, an increase of 12.3% compared to the same period in 2023.

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The all-new Škoda Kodiaq presents a more captivating design, comfortable seats, multifunctional Smart Dials controls and an extensive range of efficient engines. Our recent tour of this SUV in Barcelona revealed its highlights. What impressed us? A detailed conversation with Jil Katharina Mahler, Head of SUV Product Marketing at Škoda Auto.

Mladá Boleslav, 22 April 2024 – Škoda Auto has introduced its own ‘Curiosity Fuel’ coffee at its Czech plants and offices. The coffee, which is grown, roasted and packaged specially for the car manufacturer, preserves the local environment and supports fair and secure wages for local workers by adhering to Rainforest Alliance principles. Additionally, the coffee aims to ‘fuel curiosity’ about sustainable practices along the entire value chain. As a car manufacturer, Škoda takes a holistic approach to sustainability and focuses on minimising the footprint of its business activities along the whole value chain, driving sustainable growth and promoting circular economy principles: The coffee bean husks of Škoda’s Curiosity Fuel, which would otherwise be discarded as waste, are used to sustainably tan the leather for the seats in the Suite Design Selection of the Kodiaq and Octavia. This project is strongly supported by the KOVO trade unions. 

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Mladá Boleslav, 18 April 2024 – Škoda will unveil the Škoda Vision Gran Turismo concept car on 24 April at 18:00 CEST. The world premiere will be broadcast live from the PLAYzone Arena in Prague and can be followed on the official Škoda Motorsport and Škoda Auto Česká republika YouTube channels. The event will also be streamed on the PLAYzoneCZ Twitch channel. Ahead of the premiere, the Czech car manufacturer has released a first teaser picture showcasing the taillights of the Škoda Vision Gran Turismo concept car.

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The enhanced MyŠkoda app impresses with its sleek design, user-friendly interface,and above all, a wide range of practical features conveniently consolidated in one place. What posed the most significant challenge during its development? All of these aspects and more were discussed by Škoda Auto experts Chloe Hoi Ying Wong and Adam Klas.

Mladá Boleslav, 8 April 2024 – Škoda Auto has launched series production of the refreshed Octavia at its main plant in Mladá Boleslav. The upgraded fourth generation of the brand’s bestseller features a redesigned Škoda grille, new second-generation LED matrix beam headlights and the integration of ChatGPT into the Laura voice assistant, among other enhancements. With Octavia production being transferred to the Kvasiny plant later this year, the Czech carmaker will create additional capacities in Mladá Boleslav.

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Mladá Boleslav, 4 April 2024 – The refreshed MyŠkoda app now serves as a unified platform for owners of all current compatible Škoda models. It offers seamless vehicle access and introduces a wide range of new and further improved features, including smart services like Pay to Park and Pay to Fuel as well as Track & Explore and a loyalty program for users, initially rolled out in selected markets. Moreover, the integration of Powerpass into the app streamlines the charging process for electric Škoda vehicles, consolidating these services into one convenient, intuitively designed app.

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Mladá Boleslav, 28 March 2024 – Škoda Auto is opening a Volkswagen Group Technology Solutions India (VWITS) regional office in Prague. The new facility will strengthen collaboration and create new links with specialists in India, where VWITS operates one of its largest global IT centres. The strategic partnership and further development of in-house expertise underline Škoda Auto’s efforts towards advancing digitalisation, a cornerstone of the Next Level – Škoda Strategy 2030.

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Vehicle acoustics is becoming an increasingly important topic. What are the key trends in this field? How will car sounds evolve in the foreseeable future? And what makes electric vehicles distinct? These and many more topics were explored in our conversation with Jaromír Žák, Specialist of technical regulations for external noise at Škoda Auto. 

Mladá Boleslav, 20 March 2024 – The 2023 Škoda Auto Sustainability Report provides a comprehensive overview of the Czech carmaker’s updated sustainability strategy, detailing initiatives and advancements across all Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) areas. Škoda Auto is dedicated to systematically reducing the environmental impact of its operations. At the same time, the company is committed to enhancing local ecosystems and offering international humanitarian aid, supporting individuals, communities, and regional development in Mladá Boleslav, Vrchlabí, and Kvasiny, where its sites are located. In addition to these efforts, the report includes insights into corporate governance, corporate culture policies, and the implementation of integrity tools.

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Mladá Boleslav, 20 March 2024 – This year marks the 65th anniversary of two iconic model designations, which have carved out their place in Škoda Auto’s current era: the Octavia and Felicia. Both vehicles were first presented to the public at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1959, and subsequently in Leipzig. Launched in 1996, the modern Škoda Octavia has attracted over seven million customers in more than 60 markets across its four generations.

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Mladá Boleslav, 15 March 2024 – Small becomes epic: Škoda Auto has revealed the name of its battery-electric city SUV crossover, along with a design study showing a first glimpse of the new model. The Škoda Epiq, due to be unveiled in 2025, will cost around 25,000 euros. At 4.1 metres in length, it will feature a spacious interior and up to 490 litres of luggage capacity. The vehicle will fully incorporate the powerful, functional and authentic new Modern Solid design language – inside and out. This will be complemented by a flawless digital experience, with new technologies and assistance features.

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Mladá Boleslav, 15 March 2024 – The Škoda Auto Group achieved a record revenue of €26.5 billion in 2023 (2022: €21.0 billion; +26.2%). The company significantly increased its operating profit by 182.3% compared to the previous year to €1.8 billion (2022: €628 million euros). The Czech carmaker also improved its return on sales (RoS) to 6.7% (2022: 3%). Globally, Škoda Auto delivered 866,800 vehicles to customers last year (+18.5%). With 81,700 units sold, the Enyaq recorded the highest percentage growth among all models (+52.1%), making it one of the top-selling BEVs in many European markets. By entering the Vietnamese and Kazakh markets, the Czech car manufacturer continued to implement its internationalisation strategy. In addition, Škoda is also resolutely implementing its plans in the areas of digitalisation and electrification: The company is committed to investing billions of euros in e-mobility in the coming years. These strategic investments, coupled with the company’s robust financial performance, are essential for ensuring its long-term success in the rapidly evolving automotive industry.

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Mladá Boleslav, 13 March 2024 – This Friday at 10:00 CET, Škoda Auto will present its 2023 financial results and provide an outlook on its current developments and strategic plans via livestream. Additionally, Škoda Auto will offer an exclusive sneak peek of its design concept for a future entry-level BEV. The first sketch of the vehicle’s interior is also available on the Škoda Storyboard and the company’s social media channels.

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Mladá Boleslav, 7 March 2024 – Škoda Auto will be broadcasting this year’s Annual Press Conference live online on Friday, 15 March at 10:00 Central European Time. The livestream will be accessible on the Škoda Storyboard and the company’s official social media channels. The carmaker will present its 2023 key financial indicators and provide an outlook on its current developments and strategic plans. Additionally, Škoda Auto will share an exclusive sneak peek of its design concept for a future battery electric vehicle.

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Mladá Boleslav, 5 March 2024 – From 29 February to 1 March, Škoda Auto hosted the BeeGreen hackathon. The carmaker extended invitations to seven teams consisting of 60 international IT experts to take part in the competition. The participants were tasked with presenting innovative ideas aimed at enhancing the sustainability of the overall customer experience, developing GreenFuture business models, and improving supply chain management practices. The ETAS team won over the jury with their ideas and will have the opportunity to further develop their ‘Cycle App’ project with Škoda Auto. The event was opened by Karsten Schnake, Škoda Auto Board Member for Procurement, and Soňa Klepek Jonášová, a member of Škoda Auto’s External Sustainability Council and founder of the Institute of Circular Economy (INCIEN).

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 Mladá Boleslav, 4 March 2024 – After laying the foundation stone in May 2022, Škoda Auto is pleased to announce the completion of its new headquarters in Mladá Boleslav, the Laurin & Klement Kampus (LKK). The first employees of the Czech automaker will begin working at the state-of-the-art facility this month. The new building complex is designed to foster interdepartmental collaboration and uphold the highest standards of sustainability. 

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Mladá Boleslav, 29 February 2024 – Building on two decades as the Tour de France’s official main partner and vehicle provider, Škoda Auto announces the extension of the partnership to 2028. The renewed agreement with Amaury Sport Organisation (A.S.O.) also encompasses the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift as well as 18 other international cycling events, including five standalone women’s races. Both partners underline their commitment to sustainability, taking steps to further electrify the vehicle fleets used across all the races.

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Mladá Boleslav, 27 February, 2024 – Škoda Auto India has announced an all-new compact SUV as the next step of its product offensive in the country after Kushaq and Slavia. The strategically important new car in the popular compact segment – developed and built in India – will strengthen Škoda Auto’s position in the market and further accelerate the company’s internationalisation strategy. The sub 4 metre SUV will debut in India in the first half of 2025. 

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Mladá Boleslav, 22 February, 2024 – Škoda Auto has reached a significant milestone in advancing its e-mobility strategy, marking the production of 200,000 units of the Enyaq and Enyaq Coupé models. The jubilee car is a white Enyaq Coupé Sportline, which rolled off the production line on 16 February. In the current model year, the Enyaq continues to evolve with enhancements including more powerful and efficient drivetrains, even more range, faster charging, and new software with an upgraded and more intuitive user interface. Looking ahead, Škoda Auto is set to further its commitment to e-mobility with the world premiere of the new Elroq later this year. This all-electric compact SUV signals the start of an ambitious campaign, introducing six new electric models in total over the coming years to complete Škoda’s fully electric line-up.

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Mladá Boleslav, 15 February 2024 – Protecting the environment and minimising the company’s environmental impact has long been central to Škoda Auto’s corporate strategy. Between 17 January and 16 June, the Škoda Museum is hosting a comprehensive exhibition showcasing the company’s sustainability efforts and initiatives to visitors. The exhibition also marks the public debut of the all-new Kodiaq, now offering a plug-in hybrid drivetrain for the first time.

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Mladá Boleslav, 14 February 2024 – A repeat success: this year, both the Škoda Fabia and Octavia have secured the title of best import car within their respective classes in the renowned Best Cars Readers’ Choice Awards. In the 48th iteration of the competition, organised by the German automotive magazine ‘auto motor und sport’, 92,798 participants cast their votes, with a record number of 455 models competing in 13 categories. The Octavia extended its impressive winning streak, claiming the title of best import compact vehicle for the eleventh time in a row, marking its twelfth Best Cars award in total. The Fabia was crowned winner among imported small cars for the third time, following victories in 2008 and 2023.

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The refreshed Škoda Octavia has had its digital premiere. The facelift of Škoda Auto's best-selling model brings a variety of novelties. Where have the key changes taken place? What about the individual engine options? Adding her intriguing perspective to all of this is Denisa Pánková who is responsible for Car projects model line A at Škoda Auto.

Mladá Boleslav, 12 February 2024 – The world premiere of the refreshed Škoda Octavia is drawing closer: Škoda Auto will reveal its updated bestseller on Wednesday, 14 February at 10:00 CET. The event will take place in a Virtual Studio venue and will be broadcasted on both Škoda Storyboard and Škoda’s official YouTube channel. 

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Mladá Boleslav, 6 February 2024 – Škoda Auto has published exterior sketches of the refreshed Octavia. The fourth modern generation continues the legacy of the brand’s iconic model, which has achieved over seven million sales since its launch in 1996. This latest iteration introduces a refined exterior with new headlights, redesigned bumpers, and an updated Škoda grille. The digital global premiere is set for 14 February.

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Mladá Boleslav/ Kvasiny, 5 February 2024 – Škoda Auto announces the opening of advanced technical training facilities at its Kvasiny site, aimed at strengthening robotics and automation skills among its workforce. The initiative is designed to equip employees with both the theoretical and practical knowledge required for modern automotive production techniques. As the Czech automaker gears up to launch Octavia production in summer 2024, this move greatly enhances the plant’s capabilities thanks to cutting-edge production processes. The investment underscores Škoda’s commitment to broadening its technical training offering at its second largest Czech site.

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Mladá Boleslav/ Paris, 31 January 2024 – At the Rétromobile exhibition in Paris, Škoda is celebrating the 90th anniversary of the Superb’s production launch. Along with the Superb, the carmaker’s display at Porte de Versailles includes the sporty Škoda 1100 OHC Coupé, the prestigious 1928 Škoda Hispano-Suiza, the innovative Voltavia project combining elements from 1969 and 2023, and the Škoda Vision 7S concept: This study of a large electric family SUV, presented in 2022, previews the Modern Solid design direction for Škoda’s future vehicles.

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Mladá Boleslav, 31 January 2024 – Škoda Auto is offering a sneak peek at the modernised Škoda Octavia with a short exterior teaser. The updated bestseller, available in both hatchback and Combi estate body styles, will be officially unveiled soon.

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Mladá Boleslav, 30. January 2024 – Advancing its ongoing internationalisation strategy, Škoda Auto has officially entered the Brunei market. In the Bruneian capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, the carmaker inaugurated its first showroom alongside representatives of its local partner, T.C.Y. Motors. To cater to the specific preferences of Bruneian customers, Škoda Auto has introduced the Octavia RS and Kodiaq Sportline models imported from Europe as well as the Slavia and Kushaq made in India. The carmaker is committed to expanding its regional offer, with plans to roll out the Karoq Sportline and the new-generation Kodiaq later this year.

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Mladá Boleslav, 29 January 2024 – Škoda Auto has started producing the updated Scala compact car and the Kamiq city SUV at its main plant in Mladá Boleslav. The latest enhancements to these product lines include new equipment features and assistant systems, usually exclusive to higher vehicle classes. Additionally, the carmaker has substantially increased the use of sustainable materials in both models.

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Mladá Boleslav, 26. January 2024 – Škoda Auto has opened a new Experience Centre in Hanoi. This unique showroom, rolled out in the Czech automaker’s new corporate identity, serves customers during the day and transforms into a cultural centre at night. The opening was attended by Ondřej Černý, Chief Representative of Škoda Auto in Vietnam and Nguyễn Anh Tuấn, Chairman of the TC Group. The showroom displays the Karoq and Kodiaq models and is equipped with various digital elements for interactive customer engagement. The brand anticipates significant growth in the dynamic Vietnamese market, with sales potentially reaching over 40,000 units annually after 2030. The carmaker also plans to introduce the India-made Kushaq and Slavia models to its Vietnam portfolio soon.

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Mladá Boleslav, 26 January 2023 – The Škoda brand has been closely associated with motorsport since the very beginning, with a history marked by significant achievements and heroic performances. The Škoda Favorit teams literally wrote their chapter in golden letters. The gradual technical evolution of this car, combined with the enthusiasm and masterful performances of drivers and navigators led to a highly successful campaign in 1994. It began in January with the Sibera/Gross team, who clinched their fourth consecutive victory at the traditional season opener, the Monte Carlo Rally. However, the noteworthy achievements spanned the entire season, culminating in a landmark trophy for Škoda Motorsport in the FIA Championship.

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Mladá Boleslav/ Rožnov pod Radhoštěm, 24 January 2024 – Škoda Auto demonstrated the importance of continued technology innovation for the advancement of the automotive industry through its ongoing collaboration with onsemi. During a meeting in Prague, Karsten Schnake, Škoda Auto Board of Management for Procurement and Head of Volkswagen Group’s cross-brand and cross-functional task force COMPASS (Cross Operational Management Parts & Supply Security), and Hassane El-Khoury, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of onsemi, discussed the importance of semiconductors to the automotive industry and highlighted how their importance will rapidly increase in the coming years as consumers demand more autonomous features and transition to electrification. The two companies’ efforts are intended to make a sustainable contribution to strengthen the Czech Republic’s position as a European semiconductor centre.

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Mladá Boleslav, 23 January 2024 – In 2023, Škoda Auto manufactured over 781,000 vehicles at its Czech plants, and its international facilities contributed an additional 107,000 units. The company’s scope of production was not limited to vehicles; it manufactured key components, including PHEV and MEB battery systems, axles, and engines, which also installed in other Volkswagen Group brands’ vehicles. Additionally, Škoda Auto made strategic advances in its internationalisation strategy in 2023: The brand entered the Vietnamese market in September and began preparations in mid-October for resuming production in Kazakhstan.

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Mladá Boleslav/ Kvasiny, 17 January 2024 – Škoda Auto announces the launch of series production of the second-generation Kodiaq, its SUV flagship model, at the plant in Kvasiny, Czech Republic. In preparation, the company has made considerable investments into modernising both the production line and welding shop. By transferring the production of the new-generation Superb from Kvasiny to Bratislava, Slovakia, the Czech carmaker has created additional capacity at Kvasiny to manufacture the successful Kodiaq and Karoq SUV models.

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Mladá Boleslav, 12 January 2024 – In 2023, Škoda Auto achieved a notable increase in its vehicle deliveries, reaching a total of 866,800 units. This represents significant growth of 18.5% over the previous year. Germany continues to be the brand’s largest single market, with 157,800 vehicles delivered (+17.6%). Additionally, Škoda Auto posted a strong result in the Czech domestic market, with 87,800 deliveries (+23.4%). The strongest growth was recorded in Germany, the UK and the Czech Republic. The all-electric Enyaq series, which is among the best-selling EVs in many European markets, set a new record since its launch, with 81,700 vehicles sold (+52.1%). Moreover, by entering the Vietnamese and Kazakhstan markets in H2 2023, Škoda Auto is systematically advancing its internationalisation strategy.

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Mladá Boleslav, 10 January 2024 – Škoda Auto announces the integration of the AI-based chatbot ChatGPT into its Laura voice assistant. This important step will enhance the in-vehicle experience of many customers and help to make everyday life easier. Škoda models based on MEB GP and MQB EVO platforms will benefit from this new feature. They will be able to access a vast AI database and have content read out to them while driving. This new function is powered by Cerence Chat Pro from technology partner Cerence Inc., offering a unique, automotive-grade ChatGPT integration. Personal data and vehicle information are protected at all time.

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In the Austrian Alps we thoroughly tested the electric Škoda Enyaq for the model year 2024. How did the new engines handle challenging terrain? How has charging speed improved? How does the latest vehicle software version 4.0 perform? And what changes have taken place in the exterior and interior? Jiří Brynda, the spokesperson at Škoda Auto for Enyaq, answers these questions and much more.

Vrchlabí, 18 December 2023 – Škoda Auto is transforming its logistics processes to a uniform system under a Group-wide project called Project ONE Log. A new, standardised SAP solution will replace a large variety of existing systems. The Company thus consistently uses digitisation and centralisation to leverage potential for cost savings and increased flexibility in production & logistics. The project is the largest system changeover at the Vrchlabí plant over the last 25 years. 

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Mladá Boleslav, 14 December 2023 – The iconic circular Škoda logo with the winged arrow was first registered as a trademark at the patent office in Pilsen on 15 December 1923. Since its initial appearance on vehicles from Mladá Boleslav in 1925, the logo has only undergone a few modifications, with its original visual concept remaining practically unchanged. In August 2022, Škoda Auto introduced a comprehensive update to its corporate identity and also redesigned its picturemark. Aimed at improving visibility on digital platforms, this revamp ensures a more impactful look, especially on mobile devices. Learn more about the evolution of the Škoda logo on the Škoda Storyboard.

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Mladá Boleslav, 13 December 2023 – As an innovator in the digital arena, Škoda Auto is introducing its brand to younger audiences. The company has developed a unique gaming experience within the well-known online video game Fortnite. Through this initiative, featuring the new Fortnite Creative map ‘Out of Bounds Odyssey’, Škoda aims to engage potential future customers, who are increasingly spending time in the gaming world. The map is now available for players to explore.

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Dutch couple Renske Cox and Maarten van Pel embarked on an incredible journey across Africa in Škoda Enyaq 4x4. They managed half of the expedition solely on solar energy they generated themselves. How did this extreme adventure unfold? What do they consider the most extraordinary moment? And what are their future plans?

Mladá Boleslav, 8 December 2023 – Škoda Auto is steadily expanding its previously announced partnership with Allur in Kazakhstan. Martin Jahn, Board Member for Sales and Marketing, along with partner representatives in Astana, signed key documents shaping the future of this collaboration. Beyond sales and production, the companies agree to enhance technical training in Kazakhstan as part of the memorandum of understanding (MoU). The commitments include assembling vehicles from Semi Knocked Down (SKD) kits as well as exploring the feasibility of local production from Completely Knocked Down (CKD) kits, potentially starting after 2025. During his visit, Jahn also met with Roman Sklyar, Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan, to discuss strategic plans and the automotive industry in both countries.

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Mladá Boleslav/ Bratislava, 1 December 2023 – Four weeks after its world premiere near Prague, Škoda Auto has started producing the fourth modern generation of the Superb at the Volkswagen brand plant in Bratislava. This strategic relocation of its ICE flagship model from Kvasiny opens up production capacity at the Kvasiny site, which will be used to build additional units of the Octavia. The Superb has been the ICE flagship of Škoda’s model range since the first modern generation was introduced in 2001.

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Mladá Boleslav, 27 November 2023 – Škoda Auto has launched the global rollout of its new corporate identity (CI) across its extensive network of over 4,000 dealerships. The first showrooms featuring the new design are in Vietnam, and in Europe, the first revamped dealership is in Estonia. Additionally, Belgrade, Serbia, welcomed its first City Store completed in the new CI back in October. Meanwhile, a state-of-the-art showroom in Kuwait underlines Škoda Auto’s commitment to delivering a holistic digital customer experience and underscores the brand’s ongoing internationalisation strategy.

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The new Pay to Fuel service simplifies and speeds up the refueling process by allowing remote payment for fuel through the vehicle's infotainment system. How does this new feature work? What are its main advantages? In which countries is it available? Tomáš Dražil, Business Owner Digital Services at Škoda X, shares his insights.

Mladá Boleslav, 22 November 2023 – Škoda Auto is expanding its digital services to include Pay to Fuel. After refuelling, drivers can pay via credit or debit card from the car’s infotainment screen. This service is now available in six European countries,  and there are plans to include more countries and fuel stations in the future. 

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Mladá Boleslav, 22 November 2023 – In this year’s ‘Auto Trophy’, readers and online users of the German trade magazine Auto Zeitung awarded Škoda four accolades. Now for the tenth consecutive year, Škoda has clinched the title of ‘Best Import Brand’. The Škoda Enyaq was recognised as the ‘Best Electric SUV under €50,000’ in the import ranking, while the Škoda Superb led the ‘Midsize Import’ class. The Škoda Kamiq was named the ‘Best SUV under €30,000’, also topping its respective import category.

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Mladá Boleslav, 20 November 2023 – The Škoda 1203, a legendary vehicle of its era, was a modern and robust light commercial vehicle featuring a cab-over body design. Following 12 years of extensive development, the production-ready model was unveiled on 14 September 1968. Series production started on 20 November of the same year at the Vrchlabí plant. Over the next three decades, the vehicle was manufactured in numerous versions and designs, catering to a wide range of customer needs. 

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Mladá Boleslav, 13 October 2023 – The Škoda pavilion at the Autostadt in Wolfsburg, Germany, has been completely redesigned. A host of interactive elements introduce visitors to the rich heritage of Škoda, one of the world’s oldest car manufacturers still active today. The exhibition also offers insights into the Czech carmaker’s evolution, its strides in electromobility, and future aspirations. Initial preparations for the new exhibition concept began in January 2023.

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Škoda unveiled the fourth generation of the Superb model in Dolní Břežany, Czech Republic. What are its key design innovations? What were the most intriguing aspects of its development? And which part of the preparation process was the most challenging? Exterior Design Coordinator Petr Matušinec at Škoda Auto, addresses all these questions and more.

Mladá Boleslav, 31 October 2023 – Škoda Auto is paving the way for carbon-neutral production at its Czech plants by the end of the decade. In cooperation with ČEZ ESCO and ŠKO-ENERGO, the car manufacturer has commissioned three rooftop photovoltaic systems at its main plant in Mladá Boleslav and the Škoda Parts Center logistics hub. Covering an area of over 10,000 m2, equivalent to more than 15 tennis courts, the new solar power plant is expected to generate more than 2 GWh of emission-free electricity annually with its more than 5,400 photovoltaic modules. This energy output could fully charge approximately 25,000 Enyaq 85 cars.

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Mladá Boleslav, 30 October 2023 – With a few clicks, Škoda owners can now create a Digital Certificate with verified details on their vehicle’s condition and service history within warranty time. This file is an official document from the manufacturer, compiling data from various sources, including the vehicle’s electronic service book. Customers consistently have reliable information about their vehicle at their fingertips without needing to visit a dealer or pay additional fees. The service is available for free on all European Škoda cars where Škoda Connect is provided. This website provides an overview of the respective countries for the respective features.

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Mladá Boleslav, 30 October 2023 – Škoda Auto is teasing the fourth-generation Superb, with a short clip offering a glimpse of both the exterior and interior highlights. The world premiere is slated for 2 November at 19:00 CET and will be broadcast live on the Škoda Storyboard and Škoda’s YouTube, X and LinkedIn channels.

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The Škoda Superb introduced a series of groundbreaking features in 1934. What were these innovations? Who could afford this car back then? Where in the world was it being driven? And how does it compare to the modern Superb? All of these aspects and much more are discussed by Michal Velebný, the coordinator of the restoration workshop at the Škoda Museum in Mladá Boleslav.

Mladá Boleslav, 27 October 2023 – Škoda Auto reports consistent growth throughout the first three quarters of the year, recording positive results across all key financial indicators. The automaker’s operating profit stands at 1.26 billion euros, marking a 47.2% increase compared to the same period last year, while the return on sales increased to 6.4% (2022: 5.6%). A key contributor to this positive trend has been the robust sales performance of the all-electric Enyaq series. Globally, Škoda delivered 642,200 vehicles during this period. At the same time, the automaker is advancing its internationalisation plan: As the strategic leader of the Volkswagen Group’s Brand Group Core in ASEAN, Škoda Auto took the first major step in September by entering the Vietnamese market – a gateway to the entire region.

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Škoda Storyboard

What do customers like the most about the Škoda Kodiaq? What are the main innovations they can look forward to? For whom is the Škoda Kodiaq the ideal car? What color options will be available for the new Kodiaq? And what new safety features does the Škoda Kodiaq offer? Head of Product Marketing SUV at Škoda Auto Jil – Katharina Mahler has the answers to this and much more.

Head of Interior Desing at Škoda Auto, Peter Olah, along with his team, provide a description of the new Škoda Kodiaq interior down to the last detail. What are the key changes in the vehicle's interior? In what configurations will the interior be available to customers?

Where do the Scala and Kamiq models use recycled materials? What are the main trends in interior design? What will the future of interior design be like in Škoda Auto? Color and Trim Designer in Škoda Auto Caroline Liehr answers all of that and much more.

The latest student car, Škoda Roadiaq, prepared by 29 students from Škoda Academy, is the first electric car within the unique Azubi Car project. This super-modern mobile office features a permanent internet connection, a 27-inch monitor, and a docking station. In a matter of moments, it can transform into a living space with a bed and a kitchenette. What other features have the students incorporated into the car? Talented student Agáta Fraňková and teacher Ivo Vollman in interview.

Where will the development of active safety assistants lead? What are the most significant innovations in this field? We thoroughly discussed all of this with ŠKODA Auto experts at the test centre at the Polygon site in Úhelnice, and they also had the opportunity to experience individual stations firsthand. What is it like, for instance, when a car is being driven by a robot and comes to a halt just before a pedestrian or cyclist?

How can we boost sustainability in the automotive industry? This podcast will not be about petrolheads and EV drivers locking horns. Instead, we’ll be taking a deep dive into the materials the cars are made of – both inside and out. In line with circular economy principles, the EKX department at Škoda Auto is looking for new materials – from interior details made of biomaterials, which are still in the early prototype phase, to the bumper-to-bumper project, which is almost production-ready and involves used bumpers being recycled from the scrapyard.

The guests on this episode are Lukáš Zuzánek and Dalibor Kopáč from this department. In collaboration with the Prototype Center and Design department, they have built a special show car – a demonstrator. It’s actually a fourth-generation Octavia with some doors and sections cut away – check out the YT version of the podcast to see it. It allows you to see into the car and examine the tested materials close-up. I jumped at the opportunity to take a look and asked Lukáš Zuzánek and Dalibor Kopáč to record this podcast while we were sitting next to the demonstrator. 

Could cars signal to pedestrians at the crosswalk that they are slowing down? So they can cross safely? Listen to today's SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST!

In the last episode, we discussed the IPA2X autonomous robot that stops cars approaching a crossing so people can cross safely. The Škoda car company also took part in the project financed by the European Union. It also developed a special mask for the Enyaq iV car with an HMI interface. Instead of a so-called crystal face, this prototype Enyaq has an LED screen, which can, for example, show pedestrians that they can cross safely. And in today's SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST, we will focus, among other things, on how similar communication between the car and the environment might work and why the current legislation does not allow it.

The IPA2X robot can be thought of as an intelligent assistant for pedestrians – an autonomous rover aimed at improving safety at crossings, for example, for children, people with mobility issues and all pedestrians. It has two main parts: The base, or if you will, a chassis with wheels driven by electric motors. On the two-meter pole is the second part of the robot, basically its brain, LiDAR, and cameras, thanks to which it can recognize objects in its surroundings, mainly approaching vehicles. This head also has an HMI, i.e., screens that signal to drivers and pedestrians. In addition, the vehicle can communicate with the approaching car, for example, through its infotainment system.

Put simply, it’s an intelligent, moving traffic light – you can see it in the video version of this podcast on the Škoda YouTube channel or on skoda-storyboard.com. This rover was developed by two Italian startups, Hipert and Lifetouch. Škoda Auto is also involved: The company even created a special mask for the Enyaq iV that can give signals to pedestrians. Prague’s CTU helped with the communication aspect between the rover and vehicles or unique applications. The entire EU-funded project is managed by the Technical University of Munich – and we’ll be discussing it in more detail in today’s SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST.

The IPA2X project is supported by EIT Urban Mobility an initiative of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union.
EIT Urban Mobility acts to accelerate positive change on mobility to make urban
spaces more liveable. Learn more: eiturbanmobility.eu

Unfortunately, the number of accidents at railway crossings is constantly increasing. Drivers who ignore warning devices or are not careful enough at unprotected intersections are often to blame. But Škoda Auto has developed an application that warns drivers of an approaching train - and should thus increase safety at crossings.

In most current Škoda models, you can download the Traffication app directly to the
infotainment system. The software evaluates potential dangers using trains' location data, among other things. During this trial period, Škoda collaborates with the train company Leo Express. How accurate is the app? And what other warnings can it provide? Today’s guest on the Simply Clever podcast is Michal Vondra from the EEH department at Škoda Auto.

Škoda broke the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the ‘longest continuous vehicle drift on ice’. Behind the steering wheel of the Mamba Green Škoda Enyaq RS iV on the frozen lake Stortjärnen, located in Krokom, Sweden, was the experienced racer and motoring journalist Richard Meaden, who, by the way, competed in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in 2007 and 2008. And, in 2011, he set a new world record for a production sedan at Bonneville Speed Week in a Škoda Octavia vRS – a record he held for ten years. Now, in an Enyaq RS iV, he’s officially broken the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the longest continuous vehicle drift on ice after reaching a distance of 7.351 km while drifting, simultaneously setting a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the ‘longest continuous vehicle drift on ice (electric car)’. And we had the chance to interview Dickie right after one of the attempts. Among other things, he explains how hard it is to make this electric SUV do something its electronic assistance systems usually try to avoid. 

As we enter the new year, you may be considering getting a new car, planning to take a look around a showroom or talking to a dealer. You might even be going through the specifications and looking at photos online. But what if you could explore a car from different angles and even take it for a drive without leaving your home? 

Škoda has already launched a virtual showroom – a website where you can configure your ideal car and see a 3D model of it. We discussed this with the head of the Customer Journey department at Škoda, Eric Boutin, back in November 2021. Now Škoda has taken another step by entering the ‘metaverse’, a virtual world where you can walk around the car and take it for a drive. There’s also an NFT gallery and a virtual island to wander round called Škodaverse. 

Today’s guest on the SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST is Luca Zicconi from the Customer Journey department at Škoda. 

Luca and his team also partnered with Diego Borgo, a Web3 ambassador, NFT collector, and advisor to Fortune 500 brands regarding the blockchain. 

And with Luca and Diego, we’ll be finding out what exactly the metaverse is and how it can benefit automotive companies and their customers.

ŠKODA presented a new version of its EV - ENYAQ RS iV. We had the chance to drive it in the south of Spain and test new update of ME3 software. We talked with Jaromír Mendl, product marketing manager of ENYAQ family about the development of new ME3 generation of software and its latest updates.

Nowadays, the cars for crash tests are full of sensors. But in 1972 it looked pretty different - the engineers equipped ŠKODA 100 with a steam rocket engine…To mark fifty years of crash tests, ŠKODA has invited journalists to the otherwise inaccessible crash laboratory in Úhelnice near Mladá Boleslav. Roman Minařík, head of the Škoda Auto test centre in Úhelnice, outlines the fascinating history of crash tests.

Data moves the world - especially in urban mobility. The municipalities, or f.e. service providers, are collecting the data and using them to improve their services and the place we live in. What data to collect? And how to use them for urban projects regarding mobility issues and climate change? That was one of the main topics of this year's Prague City Data Congress. And one of the speakers was Fábio Duarte, the principal research scientist at MIT Senseable City Lab.  

Fábio Duarte wants to improve the urban public space with the available data - preferably to eliminate as many cars as possible. With his colleagues, he worked, among other projects, on autonomous robotic boats or the optimization of taxi rides in New York. What data do you need for these solutions? And in what case should you invest in infrastructure that helps you collect the data? That's the topic for today's SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST, recorded directly on Prague City Data Congress. And the other guest is Jan Charouz, CEO of shared electric scooter platform BeRider. 

Find a parking space, select the zone in the app and pay on your phone. I guess we all know this process pretty well already. But ŠKODA has made it even simpler. In Switzerland, ŠKODA tested the Pay-to-park app in a pilot scheme, allowing you to select and pay for parking using the car’s infotainment system without pulling out your mobile. Plus, thanks to this service, you don’t have to pay for more time than you were actually parked in that zone. After Switzerland, ŠKODA has now launched this app in Germany, Finland, and Belgium, and it’s coming to other countries, including the Czech Republic, soon.
How does it work exactly? What data went into developing it? And how did the pilot scheme in Switzerland go? For this interview, we travelled to the city of Zug, near Zurich, with Tomáš Dražil from ŠKODA AUTO Digilab who was in charge of developing the application. And the other guest is Thushan Bala Marketing Coordinator at ŠKODA – AMAG Group. 

When you look at the provisional rankings of the World Rally Championship in the WRC 2 category, there are three drivers with the ŠKODA FABIA Rally2 EVO – the third generation of the rally FABIA – in the top three positions. And ŠKODA AUTO hopes that the next generation will be just as dominant. 

The FABIA RS Rally2, the fourth generation of this rally version of the popular FABIA, has just finished the homologation process, and we had the opportunity to take a ride as a co-drivers on the rally track near Klatovy in western Bohemia.

In this SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST, we'll be interviewing Michal Hrabánek, head of ŠKODA Motorsport, and other team members. We’ll be discussing the development of the rally FABIA, the important role of computer simulations, and how different it is to design a car for customer teams, as ŠKODA no longer has a factory team.

PRE, the third largest electricity supplier in the Czech Republic, opened a new charging hub in Prague’s eleventh district with ten AC and one fast DC charger. In cooperation with ŠKODA, they also installed this small container – so-called second-life battery energy storage. This device is an answer to common questions like “What happens to the battery once it degrades?” And also, “How can I charge my car if I live in a flat with no garage?” This energy storage contains 48 batteries from ENYAQ iVs and ENYAQ COUPÉ iVs and helps to supply up to ten AC chargers here in Prague 11 or gives a boost to the 150kW DC charger next to them. And in the future, it might also help to maintain the balance in the grid for nearby homes.

That’s the topic for Jan Železný from ŠKODA AUTO Digilab and Jan Špatný, ŠKODA AUTO e-mobility team.

It might be frustrating when your wifi internet speed fluctuates. But in the worst-case scenario, it means your download is taking a bit longer, or the stream is not stable. But the same situation in the production hall would mean the industrial robots are not working properly, which might cause serious damage. ŠKODA IT thus partnered with the Vodafone Czech Republic and installed the first big commercial 5G mobile private network at its manufacturing plant in Mladá Boleslav. This 5G network is faster, more stable, and more robust than the data transfer technologies the company has used so far. Otto Zeman, IoT solution & service Lead at Vodafone and Martin Polák from ŠKODA IT department were in charge of installing the new 5G network in Mladá Boleslav

Do you know that specific smell of a brand-new car? Everything is clean and polished, and all the parts fit together perfectly—every stitch on the seat, every piece of the bodywork. To achieve that, you need a high level of quality control - both during the development of the car and later during the production phase.

ŠKODA thus partnered with Swiss company Hexagon and, thanks to this collaboration, uses state-of-the-art laser technology in its production lines. And also, ŠKODA experts work closely with their swiss colleagues and can help further develop this highly accurate and high-speed measurement technology. 

In this episode of the Simply Clever podcast, I visited the Hexagon R&D facility in Unterentfelden, close to Zurich, Switzerland, to learn more about laser technology and its future in the automotive industry. And my guests are Niklaus Sutter, sales and marketing manager at Hexagon, and Valentin Baumann from Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence.

Welcome to the new episode of the SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST. Right after the summer break, we start with a big world premiere. At the end of August, ŠKODA unveiled its seven-seater VISION 7S concept. ŠKODA thus provides the first specific outlook on the brand's new design language. From now on, ŠKODA will be not only simply clever but also modern solid. This new design language combines robustness, functionality, and authenticity. 

With the new design language, there will also be a new corporate identity, which is the most radical change in 30 years, with a new picturemark and wordmark coming up in the next few months and years. 

Both the new design language and corporate identity are the topics for this episode of SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST. And my honorable guest is Oliver Stefani, head of ŠKODA Design, and later on Martin Jahn, Board Member for Sales & Marketing at ŠKODA. 

At the end of the 1950s, two ŠKODA coupés based on the 1100 OHC roadster began taking part in Czech road races. While they did enjoy some success in local races, their racing career didn’t last long – the 1960s saw a new category of racing cars, and the OHC Coupé went into retirement. Enthusiasts from ŠKODA Česana bought the two cars, but in the end, both were written off in crashes. One of them was so burnt that its unique all-aluminium body was destroyed. Nevertheless, today’s SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST 2.0 is all about this wonderful coupé, which was nicknamed the Czech E-type. This is because a few years ago, workers at the ŠKODA Museum joined forces with the ŠKODA AUTO Prototype Construction Centre to revive this burnt-out coupé using original plans, modern technology and above all the enormous enthusiasm and determination of everyone involved.

Apprentices from the ŠKODA AUTO Vocational School build a unique Student Concept Car every year. This time, they based it on ŠKODA’s smallest SUV, the KAMIQ. In collaboration with ŠKODA Motorsport, they created the amazing ŠKODA AFRIQ that could enter any special stage of the legendary Dakar Rally off the bat. Plus, it can make water out of the air - thanks to technology from the Israeli company WaterGen. The system extracts drinking water from the humidity of the air and can even generate drinking water in the desert. 

By installing a unit in the AFRIQ, ŠKODA AUTO is raising awareness of this technology that can help to combat water shortages in desert regions and eliminate the need for single-use plastic bottles. 

But how does it work? And how did this collaboration between ŠKODA AUTO and WaterGen come about? 

That's the topic of today's episode of the SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST 2.0. Joining me is Ludmila Prokopcová, head of technology scouting & business development, and Steve Elbaz, vice-president for mobility at WaterGen.

Today we’re at the M6 production hall of the ŠKODA AUTO factory in Mladá Boleslav. So far, this is where batteries for the plug-in hybrid cars, SUPERB iV and OCTAVIA iV have been produced. But not long ago, ŠKODA AUTO added traction batteries to the line-up. These are used in the all-electric models based on the MEB platform – the ENYAQ iV and ENYAQ Coupé iV. The company invested almost 130 million euros in the new facility. 200 new jobs will be created, and when running at full capacity, the line will produce  more than  250,000 traction batteries per year.

I recently had the opportunity to visit the new production line and find out how the batteries are assembled, how much of this work is automated, and how the employees were trained to work on this production line. That’s the topic of today’s episode and joining me is Christian Bleiel, Head of Component Production at ŠKODA AUTO.

Almost everyone knows the classic computer game, which aims to place variously shaped elements in a given space as compactly as possible. ŠKODA AUTO logistics has the same task whenever they have to load a 40-foot-long freight container. However, since 2020, they have been supported by an application using artificial intelligence technology: OPTIKON AI calculates the best way to place and the optimal number of different types of pallets, thus maximizing the loading capacity of the container.

How exactly does OPTIKON work? What does such a container loading look like in practice? And where else could similar optimization help the carmaker? The guests of today's SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST 2.0 are the coordinator of the ŠKODA AUTO transport systems, Jakub Novák, and Petr Švarc from the artificial intelligence department.

Today’s SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST is special. We won’t be talking about digital
technologies or innovations but about helping the people of Ukraine fleeing from Russian
aggression. Due to the war, PEKM Kabeltechnik temporarily suspended production at its
plant in Lviv, where they assemble cable harnesses for door panels, bumpers, seats, and
towbars. The factory is now operating again, but to a limited extent due to supply
constraints. This is why ŠKODA AUTO decided to help the company duplicate production,
i.e., double up production, specifically in Mladá Boleslav. 

How did ŠKODA AUTO manage to relocate part of the production from Ukraine to Mladá
Boleslav in just a few weeks? And how important is it for the carmaker? Today’s guests on
the SIMPLY CLEVER podcast are the head of the ŠKODA AUTO Connectivity and Electronics Purchasing department, Jan Melichar, the Supply Chain Risk Manager Pavel Odstrčil and ŠKODA AUTO Board Member for Purchasing Karsten Schnake. 

In this episode of the Simply Clever podcast, we’ll be offering some advice to people who have decided to switch to electromobility.

Imagine the situation – you have two cars at home, and you’re thinking about trading one in to get an EV, maybe one with a small battery that’s ideal for towns and cities.

I was in that situation not so long ago and had questions like:is it ok if I just use a standard plug socket to charge the EV? How is charging going to affect my bills? And should I start thinking about solar panels? Especially after energy priceswent through the roof at the end of the year. 

 I decided to ask somebody with lots of experience in electromobility, home charging, and solar energy. Today’s guest is EV enthusiast and YouTuber popularizing electromobility and photovoltaics, Jan Staněk, aka ElectroDad. Jan invited us to his house close to Brno and showed us what it’s like to live with two e-cars in the garage.

Sportier, more passionate, and more powerful - at the end of January, ŠKODA AUTO introduced a new version of the fully electric model ENYAQ iV - the ENYAQ COUPÉ iV. And now, in March, the journalists had the first chance to drive it - including the fastest version RS. The so-called Media Launch was held in Tuscany, Italy. And in this episode of SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST 2.0, I'm going to try out the new ENYAQ COUPÉ iV on my own.

With the two latest models, ŠKODA AUTO achieved excellent results in the drag coefficient. In the case of the brand new ŠKODA ENYAQ Coupé iV, it is thanks to the coupé silhouette. And today we will be referring to the fourth-generation FABIA introduced in 2021, which has the best aerodynamic drag coefficient in its category, thanks to the work of Vít Hubáček from the ŠKODA AUTO Aerodynamics Department. Mr. Hubacek and Jan (Honza) Jagrík, head of the Aerodynamics Department, will be our guests for this podcast. We will explain what factors influence a vehicle’s aerodynamics, how the airflow around a car can be simulated by computer, and why the Design department also gets involved when working on a car’s aerodynamics.

The expression peer-to-peer comes from computer terminology. In peer-to-peer networks, the clients or users communicate directly with each other. And peer-to-peer cArshAring works exactly the same way. As a customer, you do not rent from a carsharing company but directly from the car owner - when he is not using his vehicle. 

In this episode of SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST, we look back at the successful year of growth and expansion of the Czech peer-to-peer carsharing service HoppyGo with its CEO Robin Švaříček. For example, we talk about how the EV market growth in the Czech Republic changed this carsharing service. 

No fuel, just heartbeat - with these words ŠKODA AUTO introduced its new member of the EV family - ŠKODA ENYAQ COUPÉ iV and also its RS version. More aerodynamic profile, more sportive design, extended range and faster charging and in RS version the most powerful production ŠKODA ever. That's all you get with this new ŠKODA electric model, while you still have a spacious boot that is only 15 liters smaller than in regular ENYAQ iV. You can re-watch the world premiere on ŠKODA AUTO Czech republic Youtube channel. And here in SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST 2.0 I interviewed Daniel Pantůček, exterior designer at ŠKODA AUTO and Jaromír Mendl, product marketing manager for ENYAQ iV and ENYAQ Coupé iV.

Shortly after Skoda Auto presented its new model for the Indian market, the small Sedan Slavia, the car manufacturer announced another piece of news concerning its “global models”, specifically the next generation of vehicles for the Indian and South American markets, among others. Skoda Auto is taking over global responsibility for the MQB-A0 platform of the Volkswagen Group and will be developing the next generation of this platform, which incorporates the smallest models produced by the Group. This will include the successors of the recently introduced cars for the Indian market, Kushaq and Slavia. What does this mean for Skoda Auto? What is the potential of these “entry models” on global markets? What are the differences between the versions of the models presented on the individual markets? Jiří Dytrych, head of the Small product line at Skoda Auto, will be answering these questions in the newest edition of the Simply Clever podcast. 

In this episode of SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST 2.0 we visit Hamburg. This city with the population of almost 2 millions people is facing exactly the same problem as most of the big cities. Lots of cars, not enough space for parking and of course emissions. Volskwagen offers its own solution - ridesharing service called MOIA. 

You can see these golden painted electric minibuses pretty much everywhere on the streets of Hamburg. What you don't see is the clever algorithm behind the app which calculates the optimal route for you going for example to work and anybody else who might share the same direction you are headed. With only six seats in a spacious car you have much more comfort than in a public transport yet it is a bit cheaper and much more sustainable than taking a taxi or your own car. MOIA s vision is quite ambitious - to take one million cars off the road. In MOIA headquarters in the center of Hamburg we met with Sascha Meyer, Chief Product officer of the company. 

Probably nobody could have expected that right after the covid crisis there would be another global problem causing the vehicle production to stop - this time the global shortage of chips. Of course, covid19 played its role. One of the other reasons is probably that the production of chips is too centralised in Asia. But it was probably a combination of various factors combined. How are the automotive companies supposed to react? A what is the outline for upcoming months? These are the questions for Marek Jancák, head of ŠKODA AUTO vehicle production in a new episode of SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST 2.0.

Imagine that you are thinking about selling your old car. But not because you want to sell it, but because the car itself told you it is the right time to do it - based on used car market data. According to Eric Boutin, head of customer journey at ŠKODA AUTO this is not a science fiction. With proper data it is quite an easy thing to process. But we need to get to the point where there will be public consent that this kind of data usage is beneficial for the customers. 

What exactly is behind the term customer journey? Does it end at some point? And how has it changed because of covid, younger generation of customers and new digital technologies? I'm Vojtěch Koval and you are listening to SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST  2.0 with Eric Boutin, head of customer Journey at ŠKODA AUTO.

SIMPLY CLEVER PODCAST 2.0 - coming soon!