ENG: Škoda Official Site News & Press Release

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA developing the new Fabia R 5 for 2015

› ŠKODA Fabia R 5 to be ŠKODA’s new racing car
› The successor to the Fabia Super 2000 rally car will arrive on the scene in 2015
› ŠKODA crews Kopecký/Dresler and Lappi/Ferm will line up in the works team in 2014
› ŠKODA will be in action in the APRC and ERC this coming season
› Wiegand/Christian to drive for the ŠKODA AUTO Deutschland team in the ERC

Mladá Boleslav, 5 December 2013 – The successor to the successful ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 motorsport project has been announced: in 2014, work will begin in Mladá Boleslav to develop the ŠKODA Fabia R 5 rally car. The new development will line up in international rallies for the first time in 2015. The 2013 season, which has just reached its conclusion, saw ŠKODA Motorsport enjoy one of the most successful years in its 112-year motorsport history. Highlights: overall victories at three continental and six national championships.

ŠKODA will continue its motorsport programme with the tried-and-tested Fabia Super 2000 in 2014, meaning ŠKODA fans can look forward to another feast of rally action over the coming year. “Through the many international successes it has enjoyed, the current Fabia Super 2000 has been demonstrating our technical prowess for years. The challenge is now to follow on from this success. That is why we are working flat out to develop a new racing car, based on the ŠKODA Fabia, for the R5 category,” said Dr. Frank Welsch, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development at ŠKODA.

Michal Hrabánek, ŠKODA Motorsport Director, added: “The new R 5 rally car will be equipped with a 1.6-litre turbo engine, in accordance with FIA regulations. That is a big change compared to today’s naturally-aspirated, two-litre petrol engines. The R5 category succeeds the previous Super 2000 class. This way, we are able to continue to compete successfully in international championships and to push ahead with our customer programme. Entering the R5 class is a logical step for ŠKODA. As it stands, we are assuming that the new car will be homologated by mid-2015.”

ŠKODA will once again feature prominently on the rally scene in 2014 – with the established ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000. “We plan to enter the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC for short), and to compete at selected ERC rallies in the FIA European Rally Championship. Our 2013 crews will swap roles for the coming year: Jan Kopecký and Pavel Dresler will line up in the APRC, while Esapekka Lappi and Janne Ferm will race in the ERC. In the European Rally Championship, they will be joined by the German rally pairing of Sepp Wiegand/Frank Christian from the ŠKODA AUTO Deutschland team, who will also start in a factory car,” said Hrabánek.

The ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 project is one of the most successful in ŠKODA’s 112-year motorsport history. Having made its first public appearance as a design study at the Geneva Motor Show in 2007, the ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 made its first competitive outing at the iconic Rally Monte Carlo in 2009. Just one year later, ŠKODA claimed its first international success with the Fabia Super 2000: overall victory in the Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC) – in both the Manufacturers’ and Drivers’ Championship, courtesy of the pairing of Juho Hänninen/Mikko Markkula (FIN/FIN). ŠKODA repeated this success in 2011 and 2012 with Andreas Mikkelsen/Ola Fløene (N/N), claiming a total of 27 wins to become the most successful manufacturer in the history of the IRC.

At the same time as the successful outings in the IRC, works duo Hänninen/Markkula also triumphed in the Super 2000 World Championship (SWRC) and, one year later, in the European Championship. 2012 also saw the Fabia Super 2000 make its first appearance in the APRC, in which ŠKODA worked together with the MRF team to win both the Manufacturers’ Championship and the Drivers’ Championship (Chris Atkinson, AUS). Thanks to the full works support granted by ŠKODA, this success in the APRC was repeated in 2013 – this time with Gaurav Gill/Glenn Macneall (IND/NZ) coming out on top. The ŠKODA Motorsport works duo of Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN/FIN) also played a key role in the successful defence of the APRC Manufacturers’ title, chipping in with three victories. Jan Kopecký (CZ) crowned the best season of his career in 2013 with a dominant overall victory in the ERC. Together with co-driver Pavel Dresler (CZ), he won six of eight rallies and claimed a further two podiums.

Gustavo Saba/Victor Aguilera (PY/PY) won the FIA Codasur South American Rally Championship and their home championship in Paraguay in 2013 – both in a Fabia Super 2000. ŠKODA drivers accumulated a further five national titles in Austria (Raimund Baumschlager), Italy (Umberto Scandola), Bulgaria (Dimitar Iliev), Jordan (Marouf Abu Samra) and Portugal (Ricardo Moura).

[Karlheinz]

Trophies and thunderous applause: ŠKODA drivers honoured at FIA Gala in Paris

› ŠKODA acclaimed as winners of the Manufacturers’ Championship in the APRC
› Works drivers Kopecký/Dresler officially crowned European Rally Champions
› Gill/Macneall and Saba/Aguilera honoured as title holders in the Asia-Pacific and South America continental championships
› ŠKODA starts developing the R 5 as successor to the successful S2000

Paris, 7 December 2013 – A whole host of championship trophies and sustained applause from the motorsport elite assembled in Paris: the annual motorsport gala held by the International Automobile Federation FIA was the perfect end to a successful rally season for ŠKODA.

“In the fifth year since we launched our ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000, our drivers have once again proven emphatically that the Fabia is still one of the best rally cars in the world in the S2000 class,” said ŠKODA Motorsport Director Michal Hrabánek. “The successful title defences in the ERC and APRC, and the victory in the South American championship, are just the most prominent examples. The numerous successes achieved by our privateers on national stages around the world are equally satisfying.”

With a host of titles and victories to its name, 2013 will go down as one of the most successful years in the iconic manufacturer’s 112-year motorsport history. ŠKODA picked up the trophy for winning the Manufacturers’ Championship in the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) in Paris, as well as a further six international trophies for Driver and Co-Driver titles in rally championships in Europe, South America and the Asia-Pacific region. ŠKODA works pairing Jan Kopecký/Pavel Dresler (CZ/CZ) won the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC) in a Fabia Super 2000, while Gaurav Gill/Glenn Macneall (IND/NZ) triumphed in the Driver and Co-Driver Championship in the APRC.

Gustavo Saba/Victor Aguilera (PY/PY) came out on top in the 2013 FIA Codasur South American Rally Championship and also won the championship in their native Paraguay – both in a Fabia Super 2000. ŠKODA drivers also secured a further five national titles in Austria (Raimund Baumschlager), Italy (Umberto Scandola), Bulgaria (Dimitar Iliev), Jordan (Marouf Abu Samra) and Portugal (Ricardo Moura). Another highlight of the extraordinarily successful season was victory in the WRC-2 class at the Rally Monte Carlo, courtesy of the ŠKODA AUTO Germany pairing of Sepp Wiegand/Frank Christian (D/D).
Of all the victories, ŠKODA’s triumph in the APRC really stood out. Gaurav Gill claimed the title to celebrate what he described as “the biggest win of my career”. The 32-year-old Indian has lined up in the APRC for the ŠKODA MRF team since 2012. “I am APRC champion and overjoyed. I achieved the goal set by myself and the entire brand. That is fantastic. I would like to thank everyone at the ŠKODA MRF team and ŠKODA Motorsport in particular, who helped make my dream come true.”

For ŠKODA works driver Jan Kopecký, the European Championship title is the pinnacle of a success story that started back in 2008 with his first test drives in the Fabia Super 2000. The two-time Czech Rally Champion finished runner-up in the Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC) four years in a row between 2009 and 2012. The 31-year-old was in dominant form in 2013, winning six rallies and claiming a further two podiums in the ERC.

“In a way, the Fabia Super 2000 is my ‘baby’. After all, I was involved in its development right from the word go,” said Kopecký. The extraordinary success enjoyed at hundreds of rallies around the globe in 2013 showed just what a prime example of ŠKODA engineering the 270-hp four wheel-drive powerhouse is. Kopecký: “I feel rather proud when I see this car winning events and titles all over the world again this year. I am now looking forward to the start of an exciting new project.”

In 2014, ŠKODA will once again line up in the ERC and the APRC with its works drivers and the Fabia Super 2000. There will also be a successor to the successful ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 motorsport project when development begins on the ŠKODA Fabia R 5 in Mladá Boleslav next year. In line with FIA regulations, the new R 5 rally car will be equipped with a 1.6-litre turbo engine. “Entering the R 5 class is a logical step for ŠKODA. As it stands, we are assuming that the new car will be homologated by mid-2015,” said Hrabánek.

[Karlheinz]

Fresh, Modern, ‚Simply Clever’: The new face of the ŠKODA Dealer Network

› ‚Power of ŠKODA‘: New ŠKODA dealerships show the power of the brand
› Reorganization is an important pillar of the 2018 ŠKODA Growth Strategy
› Space for the new and expanded model range
› Simply Clever with a human touch‘: customer-friendly layout
› New face of ŠKODA dealerships to be implemented by the end of 2015

Mladá Boleslav, 9 December 2013 – The fresh, new face of the future ŠKODA dealership network: The worldwide network of over 5,300 dealerships will get a more modern and attractive form to accommodate the growing model range. The modernised appearance based on the new ŠKODA company design is an integral part of the 2018 ŠKODA Growth Strategy. By 2018 the company plans to have increased its worldwide sales to at least 1.5 million vehicles per year.

With their partners’ new appearance, ŠKODA is once again demonstrating the power of the brand. The entire design of the car dealerships is much younger and more dynamic. Key elements are modern architecture, new communication areas on the exterior with improved visibility both day and night, as well as an attractive salesroom design for customer-friendly business dealings. By the end of 2015, the transition should largely be completed.

“We are building our position as a strong international brand with the most comprehensive model campaign in corporate history,” says Werner Eichhorn, ŠKODA Board Member for Sales and Marketing. “In recent years we have invested heavily in modernizing and expanding our model range. Now our sales partners’ new appearance provides the ideal backdrop for the presentation of our vehicles to the customer.”

As part of their 2018 growth strategy, the Czech carmaker has renewed its product range over the last two years and expanded into important segments. ŠKODA has introduced eight new or completely redesigned vehicles in 2013 alone. The preliminary result of the most comprehensive model campaign in corporate history: a highly attractive, updated model range – from the new small car Citigo, the new Rapid and the new Octavia to the comprehensively revised flagship, the Superb and Superb Combi. Running parallel to this model campaign, the Czech car manufacturer has placed an emphasis on sharpening their brand presentation. In 2011, ŠKODA introduced a completely new corporate design. The most important elements of this fresh appearance are the updated logo with the winged arrow in the centre, fresher colours and new fonts. The overall appearance looks younger and more modern than ever before.

Redesigning the dealership network will follow these principles: Modern showrooms with a great look and feel, large glass fronts, creating a pleasant atmosphere and transparency. The base colours of elegant white and fresh green shall dominate, complemented by the warm wood tones in the furnishings inside.
The architectural design language is identical to the clear lines of the Czech manufacturer’s current vehicles, mirroring the brand’s traditional values everywhere. The guiding principle of the new face of the dealerships is the brand promise – ‘Simply Clever – clever engineering with a human touch’.

Exterior design: tidy, modern, clearly visible both day and night

The external design of the dealerships are to be completely revised. The new appearance of the ŠKODA dealerships will be the brand’s powerful statement both day and night – clear, transparent, modern and open. Recognizable elements provide unique orientation. An important aim is to improve the visibility of the buildings. “Customers should be able to identify the ŠKODA partner as such at first glance,” explains sales chief Eichhorn.

It is all to do with clarity: Reducing everything to the bare essentials for the customer was the architects’ motto. The architecture has been tidied up, now based on simple shapes, a few clear colours, modular design elements and a modern light concept. The key features of the dealership’s new exterior are:

› The green entrance set in front of a glass wall, utilizing daylight
› The large communications wall next to the entrance to the dealership
› The logo wall with the new ŠKODA logo on the side of the building
› A white frame, running along the sides and top of the building façade
› Dark-grey cladding
› New pylons (with brand logo and dealership name) and flags

The newly developed cladding for ŠKODA dealerships will be kept principally in dark-grey. This conservative tone forms an ideal background for all ŠKODA design and signal elements. The entrance side of the building consists of large, top to bottom glass elements, through which natural light can enter the interior.
At the front of the building, ideally to the right of the entrance, there is to be a huge communications wall. The standard size 8 x 8 metre wall is a real eye-catcher and gives a direct approach to customers. There are two possible variations: presenting new models on a large banner or a large LED screen. In addition to the five standard sizes between 4 x 4 and 8 x 8 metres, custom sizes will be possible, depending on the needs of the individual ŠKODA partner. The large ŠKODA Logo on the upper third of the wall is an integral part of communication wall. This will be lit up at night.

Another distinctive design element for all renovated ŠKODA dealerships will be a white frame running along the sides and top of the façade. The facing covers the entire façade and gives the building a clear optical structure. The area running horizontal to the white frame will be closed at the bottom with a narrow, green stripe, running over the entire width. The whole forms the perfect backdrop for the sign, consisting of the name of the dealership and the redesigned ŠKODA writing. The white frame indicates the main façade with the entrance area and should be clearly recognizable from the street. At night, an intelligent light concept provides illumination – naturally in ŠKODA-Green.

Customers shall enter the future dealerships through a newly designed entrance in ŠKODA-Green. Out of the hours of daylight, it will be illuminated in green to give a warm ŠKODA welcome. The entrance arch itself is not connected to the building, but rather serves as a free-standing element with its own foundations. The advantage of this modular solution is that it can be adapted to the individual needs of each dealership in terms of size.

For people to clearly recognize the dealership as a ŠKODA centre from the side, the side of the building will feature a large logo wall. The white façade extends almost seamlessly from the front panel in five modular increments of four to eight metres well over the side of the building, from floor to roof – similar to the communication wall on the building front, only without posters or the LED wall. Here, the ŠKODA logo is also illuminated at night.

All new design elements are modular and extremely flexible in their construction. This means that they can be adapted to the individual circumstances of the dealership. The new concept can be used simply for virtually any existing ŠKODA centre. The same is true of the future flags and pylons with the new ŠKODA corporate design.

Pure ŠKODA service centres will be fitted with some design elements as well, they will for example receive a sign saying ‘ŠKODA Service’ incorporating the new corporate design.

The new ŠKODA Showroom: friendly, bright, inviting

Fresh colours, clarity, openness and transparency – this is also distinguishes the new interiors of ŠKODA dealership showrooms. Simultaneously the new concept allows fast, direct and easy communication with the customer. “The dealership is the central location of the customers’ experience. This is where they come into direct contact with the brand and products. The new look is welcoming, approachable and modern. In short: Our cars and their modern design will be presented in an appropriate environment,” says sales chief Eichhorn.

Interior designers placed the highest priority on functionality and clear orientation options for the customer. The design fully follows function. It is exactly the same with the new showrooms as with the exterior; all new features are designed from the customer's perspective. New design features, quality materials and advanced communication areas will come into use. White as the base colour, complemented by Green, to the warm wood-tones of the new furniture, enhanced by effective lighting solutions. All of those make for a great atmosphere. The rooms are airy and spacious.

On entering the dealership through the green lobby, customers will get their first glimpse of the new highlight wall directly across from the entrance. This is a central part of the showroom. The wall consists of two sections: at the top, the large ŠKODA logo; underneath there are graphic motifs that can be exchanged freely. The wall serves as a background for any current ŠKODA vehicle, known as the ‘Hero Car’. This offers the respective dealer an attractive place to present to the latest models. The vehicle is exhibited on a prominently-highlighted surface.

The first point of contact for the customer is the welcome area, which, based on the new showroom concept, is located between the entrance and highlight wall. This is where customers will be greeted warmly. Customers should not have to go looking for a ŠKODA representative first.

The newly designed waiting room is directly adjacent. This is where customers can take a seat on comfortable lounge furniture should they need to wait for a consultation. A well-equipped kids’ corner shall also be available. In addition, the interior designers have provided a brand wall, where there will be a coffee and drinks station as well as current merchandising articles and brand accessories.

The ‘Car Configurator’ is an important part of the new showroom concept. On an LED screen, the customer can look through whole range of ŠKODA models on the configurator and organise their personal preferences with the representative.

All representatives’ and consultants’ places have been redesigned, which are also dominated by light, friendly wood tones and elegant white. A newly designed desk gives customers and representatives an open, personal space for discussion. The contact is less formal and more approachable. All representatives’ work stations are located ideally in close proximity to the vehicles on display in the dealership.

Implementation planned by the end of 2015

More than 5,000 suggestions from ŠKODA dealers around the world were included in the concept. The final concept has now been fully presented to all ŠKODA markets. The first dealerships have already changed over to the new design. Each individual country will have implemented this plan by 2015.

[Karlheinz]

European Rally Championship recognises
ŠKODA champions Kopecký/Dresler

› European Rally Championship (ERC) and promoter Eurosport honour the
European Rally Champions
› ŠKODA dominates the ERC season with eight wins for the Fabia Super 2000
› ERC title is the biggest success of Jan Kopecký and Pavel Dresler’s careers to
date

Mladá Boleslav, 11 December 2013 – The FIA European Rally Championship
(ERC) and promoter Eurosport have honoured ŠKODA works drivers Jan
Kopecký/Pavel Dresler (CZ/CZ) as European Champions. 2013’s top drivers
were presented with their trophies, in recognition of their outstanding
performances over the course of the season, at a ceremony in Paris. Four days
prior to this, the successful duo had also been honoured by the International
Automobile Federation (FIA).

“With three continental titles to our name, the 2013 season could hardly have been
better for ŠKODA,” said ŠKODA Motorsport Director Michal Hrabánek. “Of all our
achievements, the success in the ERC really stood out. Jan Kopecký and Pavel Dresler
made their mark on the ERC season and not only displayed their own extraordinary
ability. They also showcased the performance of the Fabia Super 2000 in a wide range of
conditions. We are extremely proud of everyone in our team.”

With six wins (Austria, Canary Islands, the Azores, Romania, Czech Republic, and
Croatia) from eight ERC starts this season, the Czech pairing secured the European
Championship title at the Rally Croatia, with races to spare. The ŠKODA works duo of
Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN/FIN) also won the season finale in Switzerland. Freddy
Loix/Frédéric Miclotte (B/B) added another ERC success for ŠKODA, winning the round in
Belgium. Alongside the European Championship title, ŠKODA drivers also claimed overall
victory in the continental championships in the Asia-Pacific region (APRC) and South
America, as well as six national titles.

The ERC title is Kopecký’s biggest international success so far. The Czech driver won
seven rounds of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC) between 2009 and 2012, and
ended the year in the runner-up spot on four occasions. The 31-year-old contributed
significantly to the success of the Fabia Super 2000. In 2008, Kopecký took part in the
first tests with the newly developed S2000 car and he has played a major role in the
development of the successful four wheel-drive powerhouse from the Czech Republic
since.
“The season went fantastically well for us. Everything came together perfectly,” said
Kopecký. “My team did a great job. It makes me hugely proud to have been involved in the development of the Fabia Super 2000 since the word go, and now to have achieved the biggest success of my career. I would also like to say a special thank you to my co-driver Pavel Dresler, with whom I have had the great pleasure of working for the last two years.”

As well as its six wins – including at their home event in the Czech Republic – the pairing of Kopecký/Dresler also finished runner-up in Corsica and third in Poland to claim a further two podiums in the ERC. The ERC title is also the biggest success of Dresler’s career so far. “We are extremely happy to win the European Championship title so convincingly in only our second season together,” said 27-year-old Dresler. “Jan and I are blending well and our team always ensured the Fabia Super 2000 was perfectly prepared.”

The European Championship-winning duo will go in hunt of its next title in the APRC in 2014. ŠKODA will also line up with its own works team in the ERC again. “Given the great year we enjoyed in 2013, we are very optimistic about the future,” said Hrabánek. There will also be a successor to the successful ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 motorsport project when development begins on the ŠKODA Fabia R 5 in Mladá Boleslav next year. In line with FIA regulations, the new R 5 rally car will be equipped with a 1.6-litre turbo engine. “Entering the R 5 class is a logical step for ŠKODA. As it stands, we are assuming that the new car will be homologated by mid-2015,” said Hrabánek.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA and VOLKSWAGEN Group Rus: One year of successful production in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia

› Production started one year ago in Nizhny Novgorod with the ŠKODA Yeti
› ŠKODA Yeti, ŠKODA Octavia and Volkswagen Jetta produced at the Russian GAZ plant
› ŠKODA plans further growth in Russia – pillar of the growth strategy

Mladá Boleslav/ Nizhny Novgorod, 11 December 2013 – ŠKODA and Volkswagen celebrate one year of successful vehicle production in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia. It was one year ago, on 6 December 2012 that the go ahead was given at the GAZ Group partner plant to start the CKD production of the ŠKODA Yeti. Meanwhile, the ŠKODA Yeti and Octavia and Volkswagen Jetta were running off the production lines at the production facility 420 km east of Moscow.

Both ŠKODA and the VOLKSWAGEN Group Rus (VGR) cooperate in production with the Russian car manufacturer GAZ Group. Under the production network within the Volkswagen Group, production in Nizhny Novgorod is the Group’s second location in Russia. ŠKODA has taken over responsibility for the project. “The local production is of central importance for the growth of the Volkswagen Group and the ŠKODA brand in the Russian market,” says Michael Oeljeklaus, ŠKODA Board Member for Production and Logistics. “The launch in Nizhny Novgorod one year ago marked a milestone for ŠKODA’s development in Russia. We have a strong local partner on our side with GAZ. After one year, our balance is very encouraging.”

One year ago, the ŠKODA Yeti was the first model to run off the production lines from CKD form as part of the cooperation in Nizhny Novgorod. The CKD production launch of the new ŠKODA Octavia was in June 2013 and the Russian plant has been producing the Volkswagen Jetta since March. CKD (Completely Knocked Down) form means the full production of a vehicle, including the areas of body shop, paint shop and assembly. The agreement for contract manufacturing between VGR, GAZ and ŠKODA was concluded in mid-2011.

A total of around 300 million euros was invested by the partners into the local CKD production in Nizhny Novgorod, as well as with local suppliers for new facilities and comprehensive modernization measures. In addition, a new training centre for the local production team was built in early 2012. “Consistent quality management in production is the central prerequisite for globally uniform quality and thus the success of our vehicles. After one year, we can see that our investments have paid off,” says Michael Oeljeklaus.

Russia is an important cornerstone of the ŠKODA growth strategy. In the Czechs achieved a new record with 99,100 deliveries in the Russian market. So far in 2013 ŠKODA has delivered 78,900 vehicles to Russian customers, making Russia the third-largest market worldwide and the number two in Europe for ŠKODA. Sales of the ŠKODA Octavia accounted for around 52% of ŠKODA deliveries in the first eleven months of 2013.

The ŠKODA models Octavia and Yeti produced in Nizhny Novgorod play a central role in ŠKODA’s growth plans. Having sold 41,800 units, the ŠKODA Octavia is by far the Czech car manufacturer’s best-selling model in Russia. The third generation Octavia is setting ever more standards in the compact segment. The vehicle boasts unrivalled space, new design, high functionality, innovative safety and comfort systems, economical consumption, numerous Simply Clever ideas and typical ŠKODA value for money.

The ŠKODA Yeti has also been very well received by Russian customers. Between January and November 2013, ŠKODA sold 12,300 units in Russia. A few weeks ago, the brand unveiled the completely redesigned Yeti in Europe. The Russian market launch is due in early 2014. The popular compact SUV is now available for the first time in two versions: the elegant ŠKODA Yeti for the city and the adventurous ŠKODA Yeti Outdoor. Both versions feature new designs, fresh interiors and innovative technology features.

As part the 2018 growth strategy, ŠKODA plans to increase sales worldwide to at least 1.5 million units per year. The most comprehensive model campaign in the company’s 188-year history is at the heart of the growth strategy. This year alone the manufacturer has presented eight new or revised models. By the end of 2015, ŠKODA will have renewed its entire range of models and have grown in important segments.

The auto-maker also plans to make significant gains in Russia with this product campaign. In addition to the Nizhny Novgorod site, ŠKODA’s Russian production also takes place at the Volkswagen factory in Kaluga, where the ŠKODA Fabia is currently produced. As of spring 2014, the production of ŠKODA Rapid is also planned in Kaluga.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA Sales Grow Stronger in November

​Mladá Boleslav, 12 December 2013 – ŠKODA’s results in November affirmed the positive trend of recent months. ŠKODA delivered 82,000 vehicles to customers worldwide, which is an increase of 5.3 % (November 2012: 77,900 vehicles). In Europe, the car manufacturer delivered 57,900 cars to customers, representing double-digit growth of 14 %, further increasing the brand’s market share in Europe. The new ŠKODA Octavia proved to be a big hit, with sales of the vehicle increasing 60.9 % in Western Europe in November.​


›    ŠKODA global deliveries to customers up by 5.3 % to 82,000 cars (November 2012: 77,900 cars)
›    ŠKODA model campaign proving its strength; eight new models in 2013
›    Sales in Europe up by 14 %; ŠKODA's market shares increase
›    ŠKODA Octavia: up 60.9 % in Western Europe

​Between January and November 2013, ŠKODA sold 850,700 vehicles worldwide (same period last year: 873,000; -2.6 %). ŠKODA's incoming orders continue to develop positively and exceeded last year's figures in November.

“With a 5.3 % increase in November, ŠKODA has strengthened its position for the third month in a row and affirmed its upward trend in the second half of the year,” says Werner Eichhorn, ŠKODA Board Member for Sales and Marketing. “Our model campaign is proving its increasing strength. We keep growing intensively thanks to the full availability of new models and we are continually increasing our market share in Europe. The new Octavia is doing very well, sales of the vehicle have exceeded our expectations,” he adds. Sales of the new Octavia increased by an impressive 60.9 % in Western Europe and by 23.7 % in Europe in total. The brand’s market share in Europe grew to 4 % by the end of November.

ŠKODA has stepped up another gear in the last few weeks of 2013. With eight new or revised models, 2013 has been a true 'power year' for ŠKODA. “2013 has seen the most comprehensive model campaign in the company's 118-year history,” says Werner Eichhorn. The brand’s latest ‘trick’ is the start of production on the completely redesigned Yeti in China. The popular compact SUV runs off the production line there in a version customised specifically for the local market. The car manufacturer has carried out a total of twelve production starts and eight international product launches this year.

In Western Europe, ŠKODA grew significantly in November. 34,000 customer deliveries represent an increase of 20.6 % (October 2012: 28,200). Thanks to this growth, which exceeded the market development, the brand's Western European market share grew to 3.2 % by the end of November (same period last year: 3.0 %). In Germany, the brand grew by 16.9 % to 12,300 delivered vehicles, further strengthening the position in its second strongest market as the strongest import brand. In the Netherlands, ŠKODA doubled its deliveries to customers to a total of 2,200 vehicles. The car manufacturer recorded double-figure growth in the UK (5,600 cars; up 43.7 %), in France (2,100 cars; up 13.9 %), in Switzerland (1,600 cars; up 12.0 %), in Belgium (1,300 cars; up 18.1 %), in Spain (1,300 cars; up 64.0 %), in Sweden (1,300 cars; up 18.7 %), in Finland (840 cars; up 50.4 %) and in Norway (770 cars; up 54.8 %).

In Eastern Europe, ŠKODA delivered 11,300 vehicles to customers (November 2012: 12,400; -8.7 %). By the end of November, the Czech brand had achieved a market share just short of 4 %. In Kazakhstan, ŠKODA achieved new record sales with 715 vehicles. In the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania), the brand grew by 10,1 % to almost 500 delivered vehicles. In Serbia, ŠKODA grew by 26.1 %. In ŠKODA’s third largest market, Russia, the manufacturer sold 7,400 cars (November 2012: 9,000; -18.0 %).

In Central Europe, ŠKODA deliveries to customers rose by 23.2 % to 12,600 cars (November 2012: 10,200). Thus, the brand grew significantly stronger than the overall market and increased the market share to 19.1 % by the end of November. ŠKODA achieved double-digit growth rates in all Central European countries. In the Czech home market, the deliveries to customers rose by 10.5 % to 5,900 cars (November 2012: 5,300). Over the eleven months, ŠKODA’s market share in the Czech Republic stood at 36.2 %.

In China, ŠKODA delivered 18,200 vehicles to customers in November (November 2012: 21,100 cars; -13.9 %). Cumulatively over the first eleven months, ŠKODA sold a total of 217,400 cars (January to November 2012: 225,900; -3.8 %). In India, a total of 1,600 customers opted for a ŠKODA (November 2012: 2.000; -19 %).


ŠKODA deliveries to customers - November 2013 (in units, rounded, arranged according to model; +/- % compared to November 2012):

ŠKODA Octavia (30,800; -6.0 %)
ŠKODA Fabia (14,500; -25.2 %)
ŠKODA Superb (7,100; -22.0 %)
ŠKODA Yeti (8,800; +30.1 %)
ŠKODA Roomster (2,900; +7.4 %)
ŠKODA Rapid (14,600; +475.1 %)
ŠKODA Citigo (only sold in Europe: 3,300; -29.6 %)

[Karlheinz]

New ŠKODA Octavia finalist in ‘Car of the Year 2014’


› New ŠKODA Octavia shortlisted as one of seven vehicles for the ‘Car of the Year’ title from among 30 other vehicles
› Nominations for the final yet another success for the ‘heart of the brand’
› ‘Car of the Year’ one of the most prestigious awards in the automotive industry


Mladá Boleslav, 17 December 2013 – The panel for the ‘Car of the Year’ awards have nominated the new ŠKODA Octavia as a finalist in the ‘Car of the Year 2014’ contest. Only seven of the original 30 cars made it to the shortlist. The ‘Car of the Year’ test drives for the final will be held in February; the award ceremony is to take place in early March 2014 at the International Motor Show in Geneva.


Introduced in Europe in early 2013, the third generation Octavia is the best Octavia of all time. Now more than ever, the compact vehicle confirms the unique position it has in its category. Both the saloon and Combi boast unrivalled space, new designs, maximum functionality, innovative safety and comfort systems, economical consumption, many Simply Clever ideas and value for money typical of ŠKODA.
With these excellent values, the new Octavia has managed to become one of this year’s top model launches onto the highly competitive European car market. “We are very pleased that the renowned ‘Car of the Year’ jury has nominated the car into the final,” says ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. “The Octavia is the heart of our brand, and the entire ŠKODA team has been working hard on this latest generation. To have made it into the final is a great honour for us.”


Being shortlisted for the ‘Car of the Year’ award confirms the great feedback the new Octavia has received even from the international trade media since its market launch in 2013. The ŠKODA Octavia has also proven to be a great commercial success. In November 2013, sales of the Octavia increased in Western Europe by an incredible 60.9%. On the European market, the new bestseller is available in four versions as the Saloon, Estate and Estate 4x4, as well as the sporty Octavia RS – with a top speed of 248 km/h, making this the fastest series-produced Octavia of all time.


The ŠKODA Octavia is a very significant car for the Czech carmaker. The first generation in 1996 was the first new model after the fall of the Iron Curtain and the start of the partnership between ŠKODA and Volkswagen. Since that time, nearly four million Octavias have been delivered to customers worldwide - approximately 38% of the brand’s total sales in this period, making the Octavia the number one best-seller in the company’s 118-year history.



Accordingly, the third generation is the most important model in the most comprehensive product campaign in ŠKODA’s corporate history. In addition to production in the Czech Republic, the compact vehicle also runs of the production lines in Russia, India, Ukraine and Kazakhstan. The vehicle will also be produced in China, ŠKODA’s strongest individual market from 2014. With an all new range of models, the manufacturer has stepped up the pace in the company’s international growth.


The international ‘Car of the Year’ award is one of the world's most prestigious and coveted car awards, and is already has running since 1964. The panel consists of 58 motoring journalists from 22 European countries. After extensive testing in February 2014, the experts will evaluate all models with regard to innovation, quality, value for money and design. The award ceremony and announcement of the winners is to take place on 3 March 2014 at the Geneva Motor Show.

[Karlheinz]

Successful year at ŠKODA plant in Kvasiny

› More than 500,000 units overall of the Superb line manufactured through the
end of December
› Successful product launches of the revised ŠKODA Yeti and ŠKODA Superb
models
› Large investments into modernisation and production capacity expansion
› Cogeneration unit in Kvasiny receives ‘Environmental Project of the Year’
award
› In total, more than 1,5 million ŠKODA vehicles manufactured in Kvasiny up to
date

Mladá Boleslav, 30 December 2013 – With a track record of 500,000 produced
units of the second generation ŠKODA Superb, the Kvasiny plant finishes 2013
as one of the best years in its history. The highlights of the past year include
the successful production launches of two heavily revised models, the Yeti and
the Superb, and the production launch of the ŠKODA Roomster on a new
production line. The Kvasiny plant has received large investments into
modernisation and environmental measures in line with the ongoing model
campaign. Other points of interest must also be commended in review of the
past year, namely the ‘Environmental Project of the Year’ award and significant
production anniversaries.

ŠKODA has wholly dedicated the year 2013 to new models. The Kvasiny plant has
generated two completely revised products for the brand, the Yeti and the Superb.
“Kvasiny is an important pillar in ŠKODA´s Growth Strategy. With a total of three
production launches and the necessary modernisation measures underway, the whole
workforce again displayed its high standard of performance and tackled the challenges
presented throughout this year with exceptional dedication,” says Michael Oeljeklaus,
ŠKODA Member of the Board for Production and Logistics.

A completely revised ŠKODA Yeti was phased into production at Kvasiny in November of
this year. Fully overhauled versions of the ŠKODA Superb and Superb Combi have also
been rolling off the line at Kvasiny since May 2013. Assembly and Body Shop operations
have received a boost in the form of new equipment and tooling. In addition, the plant
was able to optimise the overall logistics process and also redesign the Final Assembly
testing area. The company relaunched the production of the ŠKODA Roomster at Kvasiny
at the beginning of the year, and a part of the assembly line was modernised to handle
this task. The suspension alignment station was also modernised, and the overall
logistics concept at the Kvasiny plant was overhauled, including the construction of a new
logistics building.

The Kvasiny plant made a big impact this year in terms of environmental protection by
launching a new cogeneration unit into operation in July. With this system coming online, the plant will lower its annual CO2 emission output by 10%, or 8,000 tons. After only a few weeks in operation, this unit has received the ‘Environmental Project of the Year’ award in the Czech Republic. The environmental investment at Kvasiny amounted to approximately 3 million EUR. Two thirds of this amount was carried by ŠKODA, with one third coming from EU structural funds.

The success of the Kvasiny plant this year is underlined by two production anniversaries: In November, Kvasiny reached a jubilee of 1,5 million cars produced so far at the plant, and in the last week before Christmas it marked the 500,000th produced second generation ŠKODA Superb.

The Kvasiny plant builds on approximately 80 years of manufacturing heritage, and cars have been produced at this site since the early 1930´s, including the JAWA 700. The first model of the ŠKODA brand built at Kvasiny was the ŠKODA Superb in 1947. This was followed by the ŠKODA Felicia (1958-1964), the ŠKODA 110 R Coupé (1970-1980), and the ŠKODA Pick-up/VW Caddy Pick-up (1995-2001), among others. The new generation of the ŠKODA Superb went into production in 2001, followed by the ŠKODA Yeti in 2009. The production of the Roomster returned back to Kvasiny at the beginning of 2013. Today, the Kvasiny plant produces the ŠKODA Yeti, Superb and Roomster models, and employs a workforce of approx. 4,500 employees who build 800 vehicles per day in three shifts.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA 2013: Success with new models

› ŠKODA delivers 920,800 vehicles to customers in 2013 (2012: 939,200)
› Powerful final sprint with the best December in corporate history: 70,000 deliveries (December 2012: 66,200 deliveries, up 5.8%)
› ŠKODA model campaign proves its strength
› For the first time ŠKODA’s European market share grows to over 4%
› China is once again ŠKODA’s strongest individual market in 2013 with 227,000 sales
› Product campaign continues: a new model every six months on average

Mladá Boleslav, 10 January 2014 - ŠKODA AUTO has successfully implemented its international growth strategy in 2013 again, selling 920,800 vehicles worldwide (2012: 939,200). Following the model launches in the first six months, ŠKODA saw significant growth later in the year, and recently achieved the best ever December for ŠKODA. In the last month of the year, the company delivered 70,000 vehicles to customers, which is an increase of 5.8% over the previous December-record, set in 2012. In the years ahead, ŠKODA plans to grow further. To achieve this continued growth, the manufacturer will be introducing a new or revised model on average every six months until 2016.

“ŠKODA has demonstrated its strength this year. Despite the above-average number of production start-ups and fierce headwinds from some markets, we achieved the second-best sales year in corporate history - This is an excellent result,” says ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. “2013 was a record year with more new ŠKODA models than ever before. Eight new or completely revised models show the power of the ŠKODA brand. The winged arrow is shining, and our new cars are being very well received. Our attractrive model range, good flow of incoming orders and increasingly bright future on the European automotive markets make us confident for 2014.”

2013 - the third year of the ŠKODA growth strategy - was both a successful and an intense year for the Czech carmaker. Eight new or revised models, twelve international production start-ups, expansion of capacity in the Czech Republic, as well as in the growth markets of China and Russia, added to this the crisis in some markets: “2013 was really quite a year!” says Dr. Vahland. After the first half of the year had been characterized by the difficult market situation in Europe, as well as the production start-ups and the associated lower production volumes, ŠKODA was back on track in the second half of the year. With the full availability of the new models, sales increased significantly each month from September onwards. “Our model campaign is now showing its full strength. We are growing strongly and expanding our market shares continuously,” says Werner Eichhorn, ŠKODA Board Member for Sales and Marketing.

The new models have been very well received - especially the new ŠKODA Octavia, which is once again proving to be a great hit. In December, ŠKODA Octavia grew once again in Western Europe with high double-digit growth rates: up 52.3% compared to December 2012. In Europe as a whole, the Octavia recorded an increase of 19.1% in December.

In Western Europe, ŠKODA performed significantly better than the overall declining market in 2013. 369,600 vehicles sold represents an increase of 3.1% compared to 2012 (358,400). In December, Western European sales even rose by 17.8% to 31,300 vehicles (December 2012: 26,600). The ŠKODA market share in Western Europe increased for the year as a whole to 3.2% (2012: 3.0%). In the second largest market, Germany, ŠKODA grew to 136,400 deliveries in 2013, which is an increase over the previous year of 2.9% (132,600).

The market share rose to 4.6% and ŠKODA continues to build its position as the strongest import brand in Germany. In the UK, the manufacturer increased deliveries to customers over the past year by 24% to a new record high of 66,000 vehicles (2012: 53,200). The Czech brand also achieved double-digit growth in Denmark, up 40.7 % to 14,600 vehicles (2012: 10,400). Sales in Spain have also seen a positive increase (13,400 vehicles; +3.0%), Italy (12,100 vehicles; +2.0%), Norway (6,800 vehicles; +2.1%) and Sweden (12,300 vehicles, +1.4%).

In Eastern Europe, including Russia, ŠKODA delivered 125,400 vehicles to customers last year (2012: 137,100; -8.5%). ŠKODA’s market share reached 4%. In ŠKODA’s third-largest market, Russia, the manufacturer achieved 87,500 deliveries (2012: 99,100; -11.7%). The new Octavia was introduced there in the second half of the year. The Rapid is to follow in the first six months of 2014. Considerable growth was also seen in Kazakhstan in 2013, where 4,700 customers decided on a new ŠKODA, which is an increase of 145.7% over the previous year (1,900). ŠKODA achieved growth in the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania), where the brand grew by 3.4% to 4,600 vehicles sold in 2013 (2012: 4,500). In Serbia ŠKODA increased deliveries by 12.4% to 4,200 units (2012: 3,700).

ŠKODA grew once again in Central Europe in 2013. Deliveries to customers rose by 2.0% to 126,500 vehicles (2012: 124,000). ŠKODA’s market share rose to 19.2%. In December, brand deliveries in Central Europe grew by 13.5% to 11,300 (December 2012: 9,900). In the domestic market - the Czech Republic, ŠKODA sold a total of 60,000 vehicles in 2013, an increase of 0.6% (2012: 59,700). ŠKODA is defending its top position also in Poland. With 38,700 vehicles sold (2012: 36,300), representing an increase of 6.6% over the same period last year, the Czech carmaker remains the undisputed market leader for 2013.

Once again, China was ŠKODA’s strongest individual market in 2013, where the manufacturer delivered a total of 227,000 vehicles to customers (2012: 235,700 units; -3.7 %). The market launch of the new Octavia is on the cards only for the start of 2014. In India ŠKODA achieved a total of 22,600 deliveries in 2013 (2012: 34,300; -34.2%). In 2013 ŠKODA was also particularly successful in Israel (14,400; +11.7%), Turkey (12,800; +23.2%) and Algeria (9,100, +85.3%).

ŠKODA deliveries to customers in 2013
(in units, rounded off, according to model; +/- in % over 2012):

ŠKODA Octavia (359,600; -12.2 %)
ŠKODA Fabia (202,000; -16.0 %)
ŠKODA Superb (94,400; -13.4 %)
ŠKODA Yeti (82,400; -5.7 %)
ŠKODA Roomster (33,300; -12.3 %)
ŠKODA Rapid (103,800; +320.3 %)
ŠKODA Citigo (Only sold in Europe: 45,200; +51.0 %)

ŠKODA deliveries to customers in December 2013
(in units, rounded off, according to model; +/- in % over the same month in 2012):

ŠKODA Octavia (25,400; +3.5 %)
ŠKODA Fabia (14,400; -18.5 %)
ŠKODA Superb (5,100; -18.9 %)
ŠKODA Yeti (6,700; -5.6 %)
ŠKODA Roomster (2,900; +2.1 %)
ŠKODA Rapid (12,400; +312.4 %)
ŠKODA Citigo (only sold in Europe: 3,100; -34.3 %)

[Karlheinz]

New ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback guarantees best residual value

› EurotaxGlass study: ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback beats competitors in residual value comparison tests in four European countries
› ŠKODA’s young compact successfully launched in the markets

Mladá Boleslav, 21 January, 2013 - The new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback scores as one of the best value-retaining compact hatchbacks in Europe, according to the latest EurotaxGlass study, conducted in four European countries. The study compared the most sold compact hatchback models, with ŠKODA’s young compact guaranteeing the best residual values after three years and 60,000 km on the clock.

The ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback – the first of the Czech brand’s compact hatchback models – has been a top player in this high-volume segment since its launch in September 2013. The vehicle boasts fresh designs and the very best ŠKODA qualities. The latest EurotaxGlass study confirms the high quality of the new ŠKODA model with respect to expected residual value.

The investigation includes the four markets of Germany, Spain, France and Italy. EurotaxGlass is an international service provider for the automotive trade. With its eponymous study, the company forecasts the depreciation of newly introduced models across the brand. The EurotaxGlass study is widely recognized as an independent guide for the value retention of vehicles.

As part of their most recent study, EurotaxGlass compared most sold compact hatchbacks: the ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback, the Hyundai i30, Ford Focus, Citroen 4, Renault Mégane and the Kia Ceed. In all four countries, the study predicts the new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback will come out on top in terms of residual value, compared to the other models, after three years’ service and 60,000km on the clock. The Czech car’s residual value is estimated to be between 41% and 47%. One of the best results 46% was achieved in Germany, ŠKODA’s second strongest market worldwide.

“The outstanding results for retaining residual value confirm the top quality and high price retention of the new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback,” says Werner Eichhorn, ŠKODA Board Member for Sales and Marketing. “Our first compact hatchback model breathes new life into the highest-volume segment in Europe and is an ideal car for young people, families and commercial customers. Winning the EurotaxGlass study is yet another great reason to buy the ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback.”
The study examines criteria, such as fuel consumption/CO2 emissions, value for money, quality and reliability. Design and brand aspects are also included in the evaluation.

[Karlheinz]

Owsianski new Executive Director of ŠKODA
Marketing and Sales in China

› Thomas Owsianski will promote the implementation of the ŠKODA growth strategy in the important automotive market of China

Mladá Boleslav/Shanghai, 22 January 2014 - Thomas Owsianski (46) takes over as Executive Director of ŠKODA Marketing and Sales Business at Shanghai Volkswagen, with effect from 1 February 2014. His responsibilities are to include the ŠKODA brand’s marketing, sales and aftersales activities in China.
Thomas Owsianski has many years of international experience in senior marketing and sales positions in the automotive industry. Since December 2012, and most recently, he has been responsible for ŠKODA’s global marketing activities.

“That our top marketing manager is assuming responsibility for Sales and Marketing in China emphasizes the importance of the market to our company,” says ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland.

Owsianski succeeds Paul Willis, who taking over as Managing Director for the Volkswagen Group in the UK.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA Octavia and Superb come top in ‘The Best Cars of 2014’ readers’ poll

› Readers of ‘Auto Motor und Sport’ vote new ŠKODA Octavia best compact car among imported cars in Germany
› Fourth victory in a row: ŠKODA Superb once again comes top in import rankings in mid-class category
› ŠKODA Fabia makes it into top 3 in small car category

Mladá Boleslav, 31 January 2014 - More than 115,000 readers of the trade rag ‘Auto Motor und Sport’ (AMS) voted the ŠKODA Octavia and ŠKODA Superb ‘The Best Cars of 2014’ in their respective classes. In the small car category, the ŠKODA Fabia achieved an outstanding third place among import models. This is the fifth class victory in the readers’ poll over the last four years for the Czech carmaker.

The new ŠKODA Octavia is a real winner: The third generation of the traditional brand’s bestseller managed to jump into the top 10 of the German new vehicle registration statistics straight away. The import car has now won over the readers of the trade rag ‘Auto Motor und Sport’, who voted the Octavia ‘Best Car of 2014’ in the mid-class import rankings. Despite strong competition, 18.4% of the participants gave the successful model their vote.

The Superb – the flagship of the ŠKODA model range – came out on top for the fourth consecutive time, voted in the ‘Auto Motor und Sport’ readership poll as the best mid-class import model. This year the Superb gained 22.2% of the votes.

The ŠKODA Fabia also secured a place on the podium. In the small car import rankings, 8.6% of all participants voted for the Fabia, ensuring one of the coveted podium positions with third place.
“We have been very pleased this year to have won over the readers of ‘Auto Motor und Sport’ with the ŠKODA Octavia and ŠKODA Superb,” said Dr. Frank Welsch, ŠKODA Board Member for Development during the award ceremony in Stuttgart. “The results show us that the ŠKODA brand makes the right cars for their customers: Attractive, practical, high-quality vehicles with modern technology and clever ideas at great value for money.”

ŠKODA has been a rip-roaring success on the international markets recently, especially with the new Octavia collecting some hard-earned prestigious awards. In Germany, readers of ‘AUTOStraßenverkehr’ (CARtraffic) and ‘Eltern’ (Parents) voted the Octavia ‘Family Car of the Year’. The Octavia RS was also voted by the readers of the trade rag ‘Auto Bild Sportscars’ the sportiest series saloon of 2013. In Russia, readers of ‘Za Rulem’ (At the Wheel) voted the Octavia the winner of the ‘Best value for money’ category. In Switzerland, the Octavia achieved an outstanding second place in the ‘Schweizer Illustrierte’ (Swiss Illustrator) readers' choice for ‘Most Popular Car of the Swiss’. In Finland, Denmark, Slovenia, Lithuania and Latvia the third-generation Octavia is the ‘Car of the Year’. And even in its home market of the Czech Republic, the Octavia has done very well, recently winning the title ‘Car of the Year 2014’ in the audience rating.

In addition, the new ŠKODA Octavia has been nominated for the final vote in the ‘Car of the Year 2014’ competition. Only seven of the original total of 30 cars made it to the shortlist for ‘Car of the Year’, one of the world's most prestigious and coveted car awards. The winner will be announced in early March in Geneva.

[Karlheinz]

Exceptional ŠKODA Classics at the Rétromobile

› ŠKODA displays four vehicles at various stages of restoration in Paris
› From the 90 year old L&K 210 to a fully restored ŠKODA Superb
› Trade fair premiere for the unique streamlined ŠKODA 935
› Fascinatingly rare ŠKODA children’s car from 1940

Mladá Boleslav, 5 February 2014 – At this year’s Rétromobile classic car exhibition in Paris (5 to 9 March 2014), ŠKODA will be exhibiting four vintage cars from various points in the company’s history, spanning the last 119 years. By presenting vehicles at various states of restoration, the Czech car manufacturer underlines its outstanding expertise in the authentic restoration of historic vehicles.

The Rétromobile in Paris is one of the most important vintage car shows around the world and is taking place for the 39th time this year. "ŠKODA's display at Rétromobile is an annual challenge for us," says Michal Velebný, Restoration Workshop Manager at the ŠKODA Museum. "This year, we will be presenting the work of both our predecessors and our experts from the restoration workshop."

The oldest exhibit on the ŠKODA stand is the 90-year-old Laurin & Klement 210. The open-top car was built in 1924 and sold to the Czechoslovakian Ministry of Defence in the October of the same year. The vehicle, from the depository at the ŠKODA Museum, is almost complete but for the lack of a dashboard, and will serve as an example for a typical classic car ‘barn find’ at the fair. After nine decades, the body still bears the original colour ‘Petroleum’, common at that time for the army. During its long life, the car suffered a lot, which can be seen in the bullet holes to the radiator grille. The disused car served in the army; probably as a target.

The streamlined ŠKODA 935 is also a particularly rare specimen, dating back to 1935. The 935, to be shown in Paris, is the only surviving model of its kind in the world and has had an eventful history. After the premiere at the 1935 Auto Show in Prague, the prototype changed hands several times, and in 1968 the newly-founded ŠKODA Museum acquired the car. The model is currently undergoing extensive restoration and the lacquering is scheduled immediately after the Rétromobile event.

Two fully-restored vehicles will also be among the group going to Paris: the ŠKODA Superb 4000 (Type 919) from 1940, representing automotive luxury before the war. The brown-lacquered saloon - when not on the road – is an exhibit at the ŠKODA Museum in Mladá Boleslav. The ŠKODA Superb 4000 is powered by a V8 petrol engine with 96 hp and a displacement of 3991 cc. Only around ten such vehicles were built at that time.

Another favourite on the classic car scene is the ŠKODA Felicia - even in Paris, visitors can admire the red restored piece from 1960, which is registered to a French owner. With its elegant body shape, the Felicia Cabrio sets classic car enthusiasts’ hearts racing. ŠKODA built a total of 15,000 such models between 1959 and 1964. In addition to the folding roof, a practical hardtop was also available for an additional charge, allowing the car to be used all year round. The convertible from Mladá Boleslav is a typical representative of the type of vehicle which does not often slip under the radar of collectors. The prices for this particular vehicle have risen rapidly over the past decade.
The Felicia weighs in at only 930 kg and has a top speed of 130 km/h. The car is powered by a four-cylinder petrol engine with 50 hp and a 1089 cc displacement.

Small but impressive – a very special ŠKODA at the Rétromobile. The car is a 1940 custom-built Children’s car scaled 1:2 and driven by a 12-volt electric motor, which has been faithfully modelled on a ŠKODA Popular.
Participating at the prestigious Rétromobile trade fair is another of the ŠKODA Museum’s activities for the general public and the expert audience. The museum itself underwent a complete reconstruction in 2012 and now displays the most modern trends in the exhibition industry. The museum participates in leading classic car gatherings and rallies with selected historical cars. For more information about the ŠKODA Museum visit http://museum.skoda-auto.com.

[Karlheinz]

New ŠKODA Superb and new ŠKODA Yeti launched in India

› Indian premieres - The completely revised ŠKODA models at the 2014 New Delhi Motor Expo
› Superb and Yeti with new ŠKODA designs, fresh interiors, innovative technology and top features
› Indian market launch for Superb and Yeti in 2014, production in Aurangabad

Mladá Boleslav/New Delhi, 5 February 2014 – ŠKODA continues its model campaign in India. The completely revised ŠKODA Superb and rejuvenated ŠKODA Yeti celebrate their premieres on the subcontinent at the New Delhi Motor Expo (5 to 11 February 2014). Both models sport new designs, fresh interiors and enhanced technological features. The Superb is to be launched in February, with the Yeti arriving in the second half of 2014.

“India is an important market for ŠKODA. The ŠKODA Superb and ŠKODA Yeti offer that ‘bit more car’ at an affordable price in their segments – now more than ever. This means that the cars meet the needs of Indian customers perfectly,” says Werner Eichhorn, Member of the Board responsible for Sales and Marketing.

The ŠKODA Superb is the flagship of the Czech brand. The completely redesigned mid-class saloon features the new ŠKODA design language. The front and rear sections have been completely redesigned. Clean lines and balanced proportions attest to precise design and the highest quality; the interior sports new steering wheels, while at the same time, the Superb confirms all the good values that have defined the model’s success in India over the past ten years: lots of space, maximum functionality, highest levels of comfort, best safety and fantastic value for money. The space and comfort in the Superb go well beyond the usual offers found in its class. The engines offered for the Superb in India – a petrol 1.8 TSI-118 kW and diesel engine 2.0 TDI-103 kW – win over customers with their performance and efficiency.

The second half of 2014 is to see the launch of the completely revised ŠKODA Yeti on the Indian market. The compact SUV now features newly-designed front and rear sections. The Yeti, soon to be available in India, is based on the Yeti outdoor version. Its hallmark: a distinctive off-road look. Design elements such as bumpers, air intakes, under-ride protection, side mouldings and door sills are customized in black lacquered plastic. In addition, there are other attractive comfort and design features fitted as standard, including bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights, 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, an electronically-adjustable driver’s seat, a multifunction steering wheel, electronic tyre pressure monitoring system, and the automatic locking and start system KESSY (Keyless-Entry-Start-and-Exit-SYstem). In addition, the enormously generous amount of room and the superior functionality of the compact SUV have won over customers around the world. There are two diesel engines available for the Indian Yeti: the 2.0 TDI/81 kW with manual five-speed gearbox and 2.0 TDI/103 kW with manual six-speed gearbox. The 2.0 TDI/81kW engine is available with front-wheel drive; the 2.0 TDI/103 kW comes with all-wheel drive fitted as standard.

“The success of recently launched new generation Octavia heralds a new era for ŠKODA India. The new design language has been well received and appreciated by our consumers. The redesigned Superb and Yeti will further strengthen ŠKODA’s position in the premium category in India,” says Sudhir Rao, Chairman & Managing Director, ŠKODA Auto India. “We will continue to focus on providing our customers with great products and an enhanced ownership experience. There will be an increased thrust in the aftersales domain with an aim to build a loyal customer base and strong lasting relationships with the customers in India,” adds Rao.
With the launch of the new models, ŠKODA is committed to further strengthening success of the Superb and Yeti on the Indian market: The Superb was launched on the subcontinent in 2004; the Yeti in 2010. By the end of 2013, the manufacturer had delivered more than 15,500 Superbs and more than 4,500 Yetis to customers in India. Both models are produced at the Indian ŠKODA plant in Aurangabad, where the Czechs also produce the Octavia model. The new Octavia made its Indian sales debut in the autumn of 2013.

The international product campaign is at the heart of the comprehensive ŠKODA growth strategy. Over the coming years, the carmaker plans to increase worldwide sales to at least 1.5 million vehicles per year. In 2013, ŠKODA sold 920,800 cars worldwide. That was the second-best sales year corporate history.
ŠKODA first appeared on the Indian market in 2001 and has since sold a total of 187,100 cars to customers in India. In 2013, the brand sold 22,600 vehicles in India.

[Karlheinz]

‘ŠKODA VisionC’ Design Study – a brand on the move

› Evolution: Design Study ‘ŠKODA VisionC’ the next stage of development in ŠKODA’s design language
› Design: Expressive, dynamic, emotional
› Concept: ŠKODA takes on first five-door coupé body design

Mladá Boleslav, 5 February 2014 – Premiere at the Geneva Motor Show 2014: The highlight of ŠKODA’s appearance at Lac Leman this year will be to present the spectacular ‘ŠKODA VisionC’ design study, with which ŠKODA’s dynamic model & design development of the last few years moves into the next stage. The next evolutionary step of ŠKODA’s design language underpins the dawn of the brand. During the course of the most comprehensive model campaign in corporate history, ŠKODA is renewing and broadening the entire range of models. The design of ŠKODA cars is playing an ever more important role and shows the brand’s emotional vibrancy and power. The design language of the dynamic and elegant five-door coupé is taking the leading role in the next evolutionary steps: ŠKODA’s design is becoming more expressive, dynamic and emotional. At the same time, the five-door coupé study shows the possibility of innovative body concepts.