ENG: Škoda Official Site News & Press Release

[Karlheinz]

Four ŠKODA Citigo G-TECs to start in Monte-Carlo Alternative Energy Rally

› Bivalent city runabouts with fuel consumption of only 2.9 kg CNG/100km step up to the competition in alternative drive concepts
› Energy efficiency, uniformity and manoeuvrability will be rated
› Seven-times German rally champion Matthias Kahle is looking forward to the challenging route through the Maritime Alps
› Rally to the South of France plus loop over original stages to give that classic "Monte" feeling.

Mlada Boleslav, 20 March 2014 – ŠKODA will be starting at the ‘Rallye de Monte-Carlo des Énergies Nouvelles’ from 20 to 23 March with four natural gas-powered Citigo 1.0 G-TECs. The event is the most prestigious competition for vehicles with alternative drive. The most important criterion is the energy efficiency rating on the 1,000+ kilometre route.

One of the 50 kW (68 hp) ŠKODA Citigo 1.0 G-TEC is to be driven by the seven-time German Rally Champion Matthias Kahle, accompanied by his long-time co-pilot Peter Göbel. Kahle and Göbel are not only specialists in off-road and high-speed, they have also taken numerous victories in regularity events. Being about maximum efficiency, the race is a new challenge for ŠKODA driver Matthias Kahle: “With a predetermined travel time and speed through the French Maritime Alps, accelerating and using as little gas as possible requires extreme sensitivity and concentration.”

Thus, the rally veteran alludes to the special regulations of the Monte-Carlo Rally for alternative drives. It is not pure speed that counts here, but rather a ‘triathlon’ of qualities essential to everyday motoring. The most important criterion is the energy efficiency rating - the consumption of the different drive concepts and fuel types are converted into a common classification according to a points system. Multiple regularity trials are included in the championship, taking place on some of the classic test routes the Rally Monte-Carlo. The third rating point is the manoeuvrability of the vehicles that will be tested in the principality’s yacht harbour. All tests are run on closed routes not public roads.

The ŠKODA Citigo G-TEC has many qualities that are in demand in the "alternative Monte": With a combined fuel consumption of just 2.9 kilograms of natural gas per 100 kilometres, it is rated in the EU's energy efficiency class as A+. Thanks to the low CO2 emissions of a combined 79g/km, it has been entered in the 2013/2014 environmental car list of the Traffic Club Germany (VCD). No other model on this list is more economical or climate-friendly.

At the same time, the bivalent Citigo G-TEC, driven by natural gas and petrol, gives a very agile performance: with its 50 kW (68 PS) engine, the car sprints from 0-100km/h in 16.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 164 km/h. With a turning circle of 9.8 meters and compact 3.56 metre overall length, the vehicle is ideal for city driving and winding country roads. Electronic stability control and ASR traction control are fitted as standard.

The ‘Rallye de Monte-Carlo des Énergies Nouvelles’ is considered one of the most challenging races for alternative fuel vehicles. Electric, hybrid and internal combustion engines and types of energy such as natural gas, LPG, biodiesel, solar power, hydrogen and others will be competing against each other in various rating classes. Only vehicles that produce very little or no CO2 are allowed to participate.

In keeping with the classic Monte Carlo Rally, the "alternative Monte" also starts with a rally, in which all four ŠKODA Citigo G-TECs will be competing in Clermont-Ferrand, France. They will have driven around 550km by the time they reach the stage finish in Aix-en-Provence. From there, the teams will drive about 365 miles to Monaco. Around the Principality, they will be driving a 190kilometer loop, mostly on special stages of the Monte Carlo Rally. In total, the ‘Rallye de Monte-Carlo des Énergies Nouvelles’ is 1105 km long. The victory ceremony will take place on 23 March held in 2014 at the Port of Monaco.

[Karlheinz]

Record: ŠKODA AUTO has built eleven million cars in Mladá Boleslav

› ŠKODA main factory is the heart of the global ŠKODA production network
› The root and origin of a 118-year corporate history
› Cornerstone of the ŠKODA growth strategy; extensive investments

Mladá Boleslav, 21 March 2014 - ŠKODA AUTO has produced eleven million vehicles at its main factory in Mladá Boleslav. Six ŠKODA models are currently produced in Mladá Boleslav: the Octavia, Octavia Combi, Fabia, Fabia Combi, Rapid and Rapid Spaceback. As part of the most comprehensive product campaign in its corporate history, the carmaker has extensively modernized and expanded the production facilities over the past three years.

“Mladá Boleslav is the heart of the global ŠKODA production network,” says Michael Oeljeklaus, ŠKODA Board member for Production. “This, the eleven million vehicles produced, demonstrates the strength and importance of both the plant and the company. More than 50 percent of all ŠKODA cars built to date have left the production lines in Mladá Boleslav, of which one million were produced in the last two years alone. ŠKODA’s heart beats in this town and at this factory. The whole team is very proud of the eleven millionth milestone. In the years ahead, ŠKODA will continue to grow with the most comprehensive model campaign in the company’s history and our main factory is going to play a key role.”

The Mladá Boleslav plant is the mainstay of production in the model campaign that the Czech manufacturer launched around three years ago. Almost 10,000 employees work on producing the current ŠKODA Fabia, the new ŠKODA Octavia, as well as the new ŠKODA Rapid and the new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback. To accommodate the production of the new models, ŠKODA launched one of the most extensive modernization and expansion projects in the history of the plant. The focus was to increase the production capacity of production line I from 800 to 1,200 vehicles every day. Among other things, a new body shop and a fully-automated paint shop for body interiors were installed. In addition ŠKODA built a new, environmentally friendly press line.

The investments are paying off: the new models made in Mladá Boleslav are selling very well. Growing by more than 30 percent in West & Central Europe, the new ŠKODA Octavia has been a massive hit in the first two months of 2014. The new ŠKODA Octavia is available as Octavia, Octavia Combi, Octavia Combi 4x4 and the powerful Octavia RS version. The new Octavia Scout and the new CNG-driven Octavia G-TEC are soon to follow in 2014. It has not even been two years since the market launch of the new ŠKODA Rapid, and it has already become the brand’s third-strongest model. In 2013, ŠKODA was able to more than quadruple deliveries of the Rapid over the previous year.
The ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback has been the brand’s first compact hatchback since mid-
2013.

The Mladá Boleslav plant on Václav Klement Road is the ŠKODA plant par excellence and
is regarded as the heart of the company’s 118-year success story. In close proximity to
the current production halls, the two vehicle pioneers, Václav Laurin and Václav Klement
launched the construction of bicycles in 1895, then motorcycles, and from 1905, they
began constructing automobiles.

Besides the main plant in the Czech Republic, ŠKODA has two other production sites;
Kvasiny and Vrchlabí. The Yeti, Superb and Roomster run off the production lines at
Kvasiny and the Vrchlabí plant currently produces the DQ200 double-clutch gearbox for
the Volkswagen Group. The Czech manufacturer and Volkswagen Group invested around
€170 million into producing the DSG.

In addition to domestic production, ŠKODA, as part of the international growth strategy,
is focusing on increasing local capacities in key global growth markets, particularly of
China and Russia. The Czechs produce vehicles in partnership with Shanghai Volkswagen
(SVW) at the locations of Anting, Yizheng and Ningbo in China, where more than one
million ŠKODA vehicles for China have been built to date. The production of the new
Octavia for the Chinese market has been set for mid-2014. ŠKODA models are also
produced at the Russian production sites of Nizhny Novgorod and Kaluga. The assembly
of the ŠKODA Rapid for the Russian market began in Kaluga just a few weeks ago.

As part of the company’s growth strategy launched three years ago, ŠKODA plans to
increase deliveries worldwide over the next few years to at least 1.5 million vehicles per
year. In 2013 ŠKODA delivered 920,800 vehicles to customers worldwide, making it the
second-best sales year in the company's history. By introducing eight new or revised
models, the brand launched more new models in one year than ever before. ŠKODA will
continue on this path to growth in 2014. By the end of February, sales were up 10.6
percent over the same period in 2013.

Various milestones in ŠKODA AUTO’s production:

- 19 March 2014: 11 millionth ŠKODA vehicle at the Mladá Boleslav plant
- 26 August 2013: 4 millionth ŠKODA Octavia
- 9 July 2013: 1 millionth ŠKODA vehicle in China since 2007
- 5 February 2013: 15 millionth ŠKODA vehicle since 1905
- 30 January 2012: 14 millionth ŠKODA vehicle since 1905
- 12 October 2011: 10 millionth ŠKODA vehicle at the Mladá Boleslav plant
- 8 April 2009: 12 millionth ŠKODA vehicle since 1905
- 13 July 2006: 10 millionth ŠKODA vehicle since 1905
- 1991: 5 millionth ŠKODA vehicle since 1905

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA at the Techno Classica: 12 milestones in the company’s history

› ŠKODA presents twelve outstanding old-timers from its 118-year history
› From L&K motorcycles and the first L&K automobile to the ŠKODA Forman
› Anniversary: ŠKODA celebrates 50 years of the ŠKODA 1000 MB

Mladá Boleslav/Essen, 26 March 2014 – ŠKODA AUTO will be presenting twelve
milestones of the company’s 119-year history at this year’s Techno Classica in
Essen. The phalanx of the classics from Mladá Boleslav ranges from the
motorcycles and the first automobile of the ŠKODA founders, Laurin and
Klement, the ŠKODA legends of the 1930s, 40s and 50s through to the ŠKODA
Forman dating back to 1993. The one thing all the vehicles have in common is
the outstanding importance they had for the brand and models in each period.

“ŠKODA is one of the longest-established vehicle manufacturers in the world,” explains
Michal Velebný, Restoration Workshop Manager at the ŠKODA Museum. “In the history of
the company, spanning almost 119 years, there have been a number of vehicles that set
the course for the company and the brand. We will be presenting twelve of these
milestones at the Techno Classica, including a replica of the first L&K automobile.” The
ŠKODA stand is located in Messe Essen’s Hall 7. The presentation will be in association
with ŠKODA AUTO Deutschland.

The two ŠKODA founding fathers Václav Laurin and Václav Klement (L&K) laid the
foundation stone of the ŠKODA brand’s success at the end of the 19th century with the
production of bicycles, and motorbikes from 1899. By presenting three motorized
bicycles from the L&K early years, ŠKODA will be taking Techno Classica visitors on a
journey back in time to the roots of the brand. An L&K Motocykleta TB dating back to
1902, an L&K Motocykleta L 80 from 1903, as well as an L&K Motocykleta CCR from
1905 will be on show in Essen.

In December 1905, L & K presented the new company’s first car: the so-called
Voiturette A (French: little carriage or small car). At the Techno Classica, ŠKODA will be
presenting a faithfully constructed, roadworthy vehicle as would have been seen in 1906.
The Voiturette A was a huge hit in its time, not least because of the water-cooled engine
and the low price of only 3,600 crowns. Under the bonnet you will find a 7-hp twocylinder
engine with a displacement of 1,100cm3.

In Essen, ŠKODA will be displaying one of the most successful L&K models ever – the
L&K Typ S dating back to 1911. Between 1911 and 1925 more than 2,000 of these
vehicles were produced in various versions. The customers particularly appreciated the
model’s excellent reliability. The Type S was powered by a 14-hp four-cylinder with 1,771 cm3 displacement.
In June 1925 L&K merged with the ŠKODA plants in Pilsen, which was already the largest Czech industrial company of that time. The luxury-class model L&K ŠKODA Type 110 on display at the Techno Classica is a special representative of its time, in that it bears the logos of both companies – both L&K and ŠKODA.

The ŠKODA Popular was a revolutionary lightweight and inexpensive vehicle concept released in 1934. The ŠKODA Popular fulfilled the long-awaited dream of owning a car for a broad range of customers. At the same time the Popular founded a new successful ŠKODA Generation of vehicles with modern a central tube frame (instead of the previously-seem lead frame), OHV engines and sophisticated technology. Over 5,000 of the vehicle were sold between 1934 and 1945. The example on display in Essen is a ŠKODA 420 Popular Roadster from 1935.

The ŠKODA 1200 was a milestone for ŠKODA in the period after the Second World War in the spring of 1952. One special feature was the initial design based on a metal chassis instead of the usual mixed construction made of wood and sheet metal. Moreover, this notchback sedan was the first ŠKODA to be tested in the wind tunnel. The no less important ŠKODA 440 from the museum inventory will also be on show in Essen. The ŠKODA 440 was the manufacturer’s answer to the growing demand from the Czechs for an inexpensive, populist and modern vehicle. The number 440 stood for four cylinders and power of 40 hp. The vehicle was named Spartak in local slang. The model rolled off the production lines for five years and a total of 75,417 the vehicles were produced.

The ŠKODA 1000 MB will be celebrating its half century at the Techno Classica. This model first introduced in spring 1964. A vehicle from 1966 from the ŠKODA Museum’s collection can be seen at the fair in Essen. As the first ŠKODA with rear wheel drive, rear engine and a unibody construction, the ŠKODA 1000 MB marked the beginning of a new ŠKODA era. The spacious five-door was one of the best vehicles in the one-litre class in its time and set new standards in terms of comfort, performance and technology. The 1000 MB strengthened ŠKODA’s position in the European automotive industry, and shaped the manufacturer's model strategy for many years. A total of around 443,156 ŠKODA 1000 MBs were produced between April 1964 and August 1969, more than half of which were exported, even as far as New Zealand and Australia.

An important representative of the later ŠKODA vehicles with a rear engine was the ŠKODA Rapid of the 1980s – a two-door coupé based on the 105/120 series. ŠKODA will be presenting a Rapid type 135 in Essen. The Rapid was powered by a 1.3 litre petrol engine with 43 hp. The vehicle featured a five-speed gearbox. A characteristic of the type 135 was the newly developed aluminium engine, which was later used in the ŠKODA Favorit.

The dozen ŠKODA milestones to be presented in Essen is completed by the ŠKODA Forman dating back to 1993. It will be about the estate version of the model ŠKODA Favorit, which was first presented in 1987 at the Engineering Fair in Brno. The Favorit first marked the development of a modern compact car concept with front-mounted engine, front drive, versatile interior and a large hatch. A total of around 1,000,000 of these vehicles ran off the production lines, as saloons, estates and pickups.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA: Best First Quarter and Best March in Corporate History

› Record quarter: ŠKODA delivers 247,200 vehicles to customers in the first three months (January to March 2013: 220,400; up 12.1%)
› Record March: 96,100 deliveries, up 14.6%
› Growth with new models; ŠKODA grows by 17% in Europe in the first quarter
› Western-European sales of new ŠKODA Octavia increase by 49.4% in March
› Most comprehensive model campaign in ŠKODA’s history continues in 2014

Mladá Boleslav, 10 April 2014 – ŠKODA AUTO has sold more cars in the first quarter of 2014 than ever before in the first three months of a year. Between January and March, the brand delivered 247,200 vehicles to customers, which is an increase of 12.1% over the same period last year. In March, deliveries increased by 14.6% compared to the same month last year to 96,100 vehicles (March 2013: 83,800). This has been the best March in corporate history. Western-European sales of the new ŠKODA Octavia increased by 49% in March, and 47% in Central Europe.

“Recording double-digit growth in the first quarter, ŠKODA has continued impressively on the company’s path to growth,” says Werner Eichhorn, ŠKODA Board Member for Sales and Marketing. “The best first quarter and the best March in our history have been the result of outstanding products and an excellent team performance. The entire model range has proven to be a great success on the international markets. The new Octavia, in particular, has been a great hit in every respect. We will be keeping the pace up in 2014, and vigorously pursuing the most comprehensive model campaign in ŠKODA’s history.”

The new ŠKODA Octavia is to be launched for the first time as a CNG version – the Octavia G-TEC – on the first European markets in June, with the new ŠKODA Octavia Scout being launched soon afterwards in August. There are also to be three new sporty Monte Carlo special editions of the ŠKODA Yeti, ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback and the ŠKODA Citigo. The new ŠKODA Octavia and ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback will also be introduced on ŠKODA’s largest individual market of China in summer. The ŠKODA Rapid will be launched in Russia this month as well. The spectacular ‘ŠKODA VisionC’ design study, seen a few weeks ago at the Geneva Motor Show, gave an insight into ŠKODA’s future design language.

ŠKODA achieved significant growth in Western Europe during the first quarter and March. Deliveries to customers rose by 18.7% to 45,500 vehicles in March, (March 2013: 38,300). Between January and March, the brand grew by 15.6% to 104,400 units (first quarter of 2013: 90,400). This was the first time that more than 100,000 ŠKODAs were delivered in a first quarter in Western Europe. ŠKODA’s total market share increased to 3.3%. In March ŠKODA strengthened its position in Germany as the largest foreign brand with an increase of 10.8% to 14,500 vehicles (March 2013: 13,100). The brand’s market share had risen to 4.9% in Germany by the end of March. ŠKODA is gaining strength in the UK, where sales increased by 26.1% in March to 12,700 vehicles (March 2013: 10,000). The manufacturer recorded high double-digit growth rates in Austria (2,100 vehicles; up 29.1%), Spain (1,800 vehicles; up 41.5%), Switzerland (1,900 vehicles; up 38.7%), the Netherlands (1,600 vehicles, up 72.4%), Finland (1,000 vehicles, up 35.2%) and Portugal (200 vehicles; up 36.7%).

In Eastern-Europe, including Russia, ŠKODA’s deliveries were 3.8% up on last year with sales of 10,700 vehicles (March 2013: 10,300). The manufacturer achieved an overall increase of 5.3%, delivering 26,500 vehicles to customers in the first quarter (January to March 2013: 25,200). Thus ŠKODA performed better than the overall market and the market share had grown to 3.9% by the end of March. ŠKODA’s sales in Russia were slightly up on the previous year with 7,800 vehicles delivered (March 2013: 7,700 vehicles; up 1.2%). ŠKODA’s sales in Russia were also slightly higher than 2013 during the first quarter of 2014, with 18,900 deliveries (January to March 2013: 18,600 vehicles; up 1.5%). In Serbia, ŠKODA’s sales in March increased by 57.5% to 500 vehicles sold, and in Romania by 33.6% to 600 cars. The brand achieved significant growth in Kazakhstan too (300 vehicles; up 92.7%) and in the Baltic States (500 vehicles; up 42.9%).

ŠKODA once again achieved high growth rates in Central Europe. In March, deliveries increased by 28.9% to 13,400 vehicles (March 2013: 10,400). In the first quarter, growth of 30.2% was recorded, equivalent to 37,400 vehicles delivered (first quarter of 2013: 28,800). The market share increased in the first quarter to 19.2%, after 18% in the first quarter of 2013. One in five newly-registered cars in central Europe is a ŠKODA. In the brand’s home market of the Czech Republic, vehicle sales increased by 20.7% to 5,600 (March 2013: 4,600). ŠKODA is also doing exceptionally well in Poland (4,900 vehicles; up 39.3%), Hungary (700 vehicles; up 17.2%), Slovenia (400 vehicles; up 34.1%) and Croatia (400 vehicles; up 241.1%).
ŠKODA achieved growth in its strongest individual market, China. In March, deliveries increased by 10.1% to 20,300 vehicles (March 2013: 18,400). In the first quarter, the brand grew by a total of 7.5% to 62,000 vehicles delivered (January to March 2013: 57,700).

In India, ŠKODA delivered 1,700 vehicles to customers in March (March 2013: 2,300). In the first quarter 4,700 ŠKODAs went customers in India, after 6,500 vehicles during same period last year.

ŠKODA deliveries to customers in March 2014 (in units, rounded off, by models; +/- in % over the same month last year):
ŠKODA Superb (8,500; -5.8%)
ŠKODA Octavia (33,900; +11.3%)
ŠKODA Rapid (16,500; +143.1%)
ŠKODA Fabia (18,200; -14.8%)
ŠKODA Yeti (11,000; +44.5%)
ŠKODA Roomster (3,000; -9.8%)
ŠKODA Citigo (only sold in Europe: 5,000; -5.5%)

ŠKODA deliveries to customers in the first quarter of 2014 (in units, rounded off, by models; +/- in % over the same period last year):

ŠKODA Superb (22,600; -14.2%)
ŠKODA Octavia (94,700; +8.3%)
ŠKODA Rapid (45,000; +201.2%)
ŠKODA Fabia (43,300; -17.8%)
ŠKODA Yeti (23,100; +22.6%)
ŠKODA Roomster (7,700; +0.6%)
ŠKODA Citigo (only sold in Europe: 10,800; -13.9%)

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA apprentices build their dream car: Sporty Convertible ŠKODA CitiJet

› ‘ŠKODA Apprentice Car’: Two-seater sports convertible based on ŠKODA Citigo
› Project undertaken by 16 apprentices from ŠKODA Vocational School in close partnership with ŠKODA design department
› Premiere at the 33rd GTI Fan Meet at Wörthersee at the end of May
› ŠKODA Vocational School of Mechanical Engineering offers three and four-year training programmes in automotive technology, electrical engineering and industrial logistics

Mladá Boleslav, 14 April 2014 – 16 young apprentices of ŠKODA AUTO Vocational School build their dream car: the sporty convertible ŠKODA CitiJet. The study is the result of the ‘ŠKODA Apprentice Car’ project. The official premiere of the dynamic two-seater takes place at the 33rd GTI Fan Meet at Wörthersee at end of May (28 to 31 May).

2 young ladies and 14 young men have been working on this very personal vehicle project of theirs since November 2013. The apprentices have been given free rein in their creativity. ŠKODA Chief Designer, Jozef Kabaň and his team have provided support along the way, and the project is nearing completion. The stage is set for the ŠKODA CitiJet, which will celebrate its premiere at the end of May at the GTI Fan Meet.

This is the first time that this kind of trainee project has been undertaken at ŠKODA. The aim has been to encourage the apprentices’ creativity and expertise in bringing their own ideas and enthusiasm into designing a car. “It is fantastic to see how committed and passionate our trainees have been in working on this project,” says ŠKODA Board Member for HR, Bohdan Wojnar. “The ŠKODA CitiJet is an emotional vehicle study that is sure to catch the attention of the visitors at Wörthersee.”

The ŠKODA CitiJet is a dynamically and expressively-designed city convertible based on the ŠKODA Citigo. The exterior stands out with its striking metallic finish in blue and white, and sporty blue-finish 16-inch alloy wheels. There is also a hand-made rear spoiler and a powerful exhaust with two tailpipes. A 1.0 MPI petrol engine with 55 kW (75 hp) is to be found under the bonnet.

The sporty interior is based on the interior of the special edition ŠKODA Citigo SPORT. This includes the red-hemmed, leather 3-spoke steering wheel, as well as the leather-covered handbrake and gearstick. The seat covers and floor mats are fitted out with the ‘Sports’ fabric design, and the instrument panel is finished in red and white. In addition, a special sound system has been installed with an output of 300 watts. The blue LED interior lighting system even responds to music.

This trainee project highlights the Czech manufacture’s commitment to the high quality of vocational training at ŠKODA. At the ŠKODA AUTO Vocational School of Mechanical Engineering, young people go through a three or four-year training program in technical subjects, graduating with a full apprenticeship or the equivalent of secondary school final exams. There are currently 13 training programmes; the most popular three-year courses being those for auto mechanics, auto electricians and electricians. The most popular among the four-year courses is in industrial logistics. Postgraduate and distance-learning studies are also offered by the vocational school.

The company and the KOVO trade union have been taking on social responsibility for many years through the training of young people. Around 280 young people started their training at the ŠKODA Vocational School in 2013 alone. The educational programmes are free, and the work undertaken as part of the training is also supported financially. After successfully completing their training, all graduates receive a job offer at ŠKODA.
The Czech manufacturer has been running a vocational school at the company headquarters since 1927, where 21,500 students have since completed their training. Almost 1,000 students are currently preparing for their future careers.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA at the ‘Auto China 2014’: Chinese premiere of the new ŠKODA Octavia – Growth with new models

› ŠKODA model campaign in China: Doubling the range to six locally produced models
› Heart of the brand: New ŠKODA Octavia launch in China in May 2014
› ŠKODA range in the compact segment: ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback also in China
› Elegant compact SUV for the city: trade fair premiere of the urban ŠKODA Yeti in China
› Growth: ŠKODA deliveries in China up 7.5% in the first quarter of 2014
› Growth Strategy: more than 500,000 deliveries per year in China
› Trade fair: ŠKODA at the ‘Auto China 2014’ in Beijing with 1,141m2 of exhibition space in Hall E5

Mladá Boleslav/Beijing, 17 April 2014 – ŠKODA is picking up the pace in China, and the company’s current model campaign continues: The highlight of the car maker’s appearance at the ‘Auto China 2014’ trade fair (20 – 29 April) in Beijing will be the Chinese premiere of the new ŠKODA Octavia, which will go on sale in China in May 2014. In addition, the company will be unveiling the new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback Xindong and the urban version of the new ŠKODA Yeti at the trade show in China. ŠKODA’s model range in China is set to double in 2014 to six locally produced models. Through the product campaign and by expanding local production capacities, ŠKODA aims to increase deliveries to customers in China to more than 500,000 cars per year until 2018. During the first quarter of 2014, ŠKODA delivered over 62,000 vehicles to customers in China; an increase of 7.5% over the first three months of last year.

“As ŠKODA’s largest individual market and the worldwide number one growth market, China is a central pillar in our global growth strategy,” says ŠKODA CEO, Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. “ŠKODA is pushing ahead with its model campaign in China. The new ŠKODA Octavia, the third generation of our best seller, will be launched in the Chinese market in May. In addition, we will be expanding our portfolio in China this year to include the new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback.” Alongside this model will be the recently introduced, completely revised ŠKODA Yeti, ŠKODA Superb, ŠKODA Rapid saloon and the ŠKODA Fabia. Vahland continues, “We want to convince our Chinese customers of our brand’s good values and to continue to grow powerfully with the most advanced and strongest ŠKODA model range ever. As part of our growth strategy, we have set ourselves the goal of increasing deliveries to customers in China to more than 500,000 vehicles per year. We are building on the longstanding and close partnership we have with Shanghai Volkswagen to achieve this goal.”

Premiere in China: The best ŠKODA Octavia ever

The new ŠKODA Octavia will be celebrating its Chinese premiere in Beijing. ŠKODA’s bestseller is in a class of its own, setting new standards in terms of space, functionality, technology and design in the compact vehicle class. The new Octavia has grown in nearly every dimension. No other vehicle in the compact segment offers a longer interior or more legroom and headroom in the back. The car’s 590-litre boot is the largest in its class, and the car’s functionality has been improved through a number of ‘Simply Clever’ details.

Despite its larger size the third-generation Octavia is up to 90 kg lighter than the previous model. The new Octavia now features a completely new design. Never before has the Octavia been as dynamic or timelessly elegant, distinctive, sophisticated and confident as the third generation. Subtle design changes have been made to meet Chinese customers’ demands through the increased use of chrome elements. The new Octavia will be available with two efficient petrol engines in China; the 1.4L TSI and the 1.6L petrol.

The ŠKODA Octavia has been the heart of the brand, since 2007 also in China, and is the base of success of the brand on the Chinese market. Since then, 690.000 Octavias have been delivered to Chinese customers, which is 61% of all ŠKODA vehicles sold in China during this period. Around 119,200 Chinese customers opted for an Octavia in 2013 alone.

ŠKODA aims to build on the success of this range with the third-generation model. In cooperation with Shanghai Volkswagen (SVW), production starts in spring, with its market launch in May 2014. The Octavia has already been a huge hit in Europe: Over 62,000 units were delivered to customers in the first quarter of 2014, corresponding to an increase of more than 26% over the same period last year. “Both sales and the number of incoming orders have exceeded our expectations,” says Dr. Vahland. The new ŠKODA Octavia is one of the most award-winning vehicles of its class and has beaten even premium brands in numerous comparison tests.

The new ŠKODA Octavia Combi and new ŠKODA Octavia Scout can also be seen in Beijing for the first time in China. Both models will be demonstrating the rich variety of ŠKODA’s third-generation success model at the trade fair in Beijing.

The new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback: ŠKODA's young compact for China

The introduction of the ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback at the Beijing Motor Show signals the launch of the brand’s first Spaceback in the compact class on the Chinese market. The new model expands the range offered by the brand in China, positioned between the ŠKODA Fabia and the ŠKODA Octavia. This brings the number of ŠKODAs currently manufactured in China to six, including the Fabia, Rapid, Rapid Spaceback, Octavia, Yeti and Superb. The Rapid Spaceback is the first compact vehicle from ŠKODA to offer the brand’s traditional qualities in a hatchback.

The dynamic and fresh design of the ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback appeals to a younger audience. “The Rapid Spaceback is a spacious, practical and versatile compact car with a sporty look,” says Dr. Frank Welsch, Board Member for Technical Development. True to brand values, this young compact offers lots of space, a wide range of ‘Simply Clever’ ideas, top safety, low consumption and excellent value for money.

Elegant compact SUV ready for any situation: The new urban ŠKODA Yeti

The urban version of the ŠKODA Yeti, which is being introduced at the trade fair in China for the first time, is an ideal companion for the urban jungle. In 2013, the ŠKODA Yeti was completely redesigned and now sports a host of new technical features. This popular compact SUV is now available in two different versions - the elegant ŠKODA Yeti for the city and the adventurous off-road version.

The locally produced Chinese version of the Yeti has a longer wheelbase extended by six centimetres to cater to the requirements of Chinese customers, and offers additional levels of comfort in the back. The ŠKODA Yeti will be available in China with an optional rear mounted spare wheel. A choice of three petrol engines will be available for the Yeti in China; a 1.6 litre petrol engine, available exclusively for the urban version, as well as the 1.4 TSI and the 1.8 TSI.

The core of the comprehensively redesigned ŠKODA Yeti is represented in completely new front and rear sections incorporating ŠKODA’s new design language. The visible exterior parts of the urban version, such as bumpers, underride protection, side strips and door sill covers, are painted in the vehicle body colour. In addition, there are new alloy wheels and new interior design elements, such as the 3-spoke steering wheels for the Yeti and four-spoke steering wheels for the Yeti Outdoor, new materials and patterns, as well as innovative technological features: The ŠKODA Yeti now offers an optional rear-view camera and many new ‘Simply Clever’ solutions for both versions.

ŠKODA in China – A success story with over 1.13 million vehicles sold since 2007

ŠKODA aims to strengthen its model campaign efforts in China to achieve future sales of more than 500,000 vehicles per year. Since 2010, China has been the largest individual market for the Czech carmaker. In 2013, the company delivered 227,000 vehicles to customers in China; this is almost a quarter of ŠKODA’s total sales last year.

The first model produced in China was the ŠKODA Octavia in 2007. ŠKODA has sold a total of over 1.13 million vehicles on the Chinese market since then. In 2008 it was followed by the ŠKODA Fabia and the ŠKODA Superb in 2009. The ŠKODA Yeti has been available in China since 2013, first as an export model and later as a vehicle produced in China in partnership with Shanghai Volkswagen since the end of 2013. The ŠKODA Rapid compact sedan has been available in the Chinese market for a year. “ŠKODA has made fantastic strides over the past seven years in China. We are entering a new phase with our new models and we aim to sell half a million cars per year,” says Prof. Vahland.

ŠKODA is counting on its close partnership with Shanghai Volkswagen. “SVW is a reliable and competent partner for ŠKODA,” Vahland adds. Since the brand entered the Chinese market, more than one million ŠKODAs have been produced at the SVW plant, or approximately 10% of the total ten million vehicles manufactured here since 1983. ŠKODA currently manufactures cars at three locations in China.

ŠKODA Growth Strategy a success

ŠKODA AUTO has been on top form so far this year; the company has sold more cars in the first quarter of 2014 than ever before in the first three months of a year. Between January and March, the brand delivered 247,200 vehicles to customers worldwide, that is an increase of 12.1% over the same period last year. In March, deliveries increased by 14.6% compared to last year to 96,100 vehicles (March 2013: 83,800). That was the best March in corporate history.

The model campaign will be moving into the next stage over the coming months. The premiere of the striking ‘ŠKODA VisionC’ design concept at the Geneva Motor Show at the beginning of March signalled the dawn of the brand. This emotionally designed five-door coupé is leading the next stage in the evolution of ŠKODA design. At the same time, the concept also introduces a new innovative body concept for the ŠKODA brand.

ŠKODA at the 13th annual ‘AUTO CHINA 2014’ in Beijing:

› Location of the ŠKODA stand: Hall E5 of the China International Exhibition Center New Venue (Tianzhu)
› ŠKODA exhibition space: 1,141 m2
› ŠKODA press conference: 20 April 2014, 09:30 – 10:00
› Number of ŠKODA vehicles on display on press days: 9 vehicles (4x Octavia, 1x Octavia Combi, 1x Octavia Scout, 1x Rapid Spaceback, 1x Rapid Sport, 1x Yeti)
› Number of ŠKODA vehicles on display on public days: 12 vehicles (2 Octavias, 1 Octavia Combi, 1 Octavia Scout, 1 Rapid Spaceback, 1 Rapid, 1 Rapid Sport, 2 Yetis, 1 Superb, 1 Superb Combi, 1 Fabia Monte Carlo)
› Press day: 20 April 2014
› Dealers’ days: 21 and 22 April 2014
› Public days: 23 April to 29 April 2014

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA range: New models and exciting new products

› ŠKODA Octavia: model series expanded with Octavia G-TEC and Octavia Laurin & Klement; new sports steering wheels, wheels and technological features
› ŠKODA Yeti and ŠKODA Citigo launched in Monte Carlo versions
› More comfort features for ŠKODA Citigo and ŠKODA Rapid
› New special edition ŠKODA Superb Outdoor – strikingly adventurous
› ŠKODA model & design campaign moves into the next stage

Mladá Boleslav, 23 April 2014 – The ŠKODA model range is getting exciting extensions. Two new versions of the Octavia will be heading to auto-dealers in May – the new ŠKODA Octavia G-TEC and the new ŠKODA Octavia Laurin & Klement. There will also be two new additions to ŠKODA’s sporty Monte Carlo family – the Yeti Monte Carlo and the Citigo Monte Carlo. A distinctively styled version of the ŠKODA Superb is also now available as the ŠKODA Superb Outdoor. In detail, the Citigo, Fabia, Rapid, Octavia und Yeti will also receive new and exciting product features. These introductions will take place as part of the 2015 model year change.

The Czech manufacturer’s model range is becoming even more versatile through renewing and expanding the current range. In addition, the ŠKODA model and design campaign will be moving into the next stage this year. The new ŠKODA Octavia Scout is to be launched on the European markets in mid-2014. The spectacular ‘ŠKODA VisionC’ design study, seen a few weeks ago at the Geneva Motor Show, gave an insight into ŠKODA’s future design language.

“The new ŠKODA models are extremely popular with our customers. This is proved by our sales in the first quarter of 2014. We are pleased that we can offer our customers even more innovations in terms of technology, design and equipment,” says Werner Eichhorn, ŠKODA Board Member for Sales and Marketing.
The new ŠKODA Octavia G-TEC is soon to be launched. The first series-produced Octavia to run on CNG enriches ŠKODA’s model range of environmentally-friendly yet affordable vehicles. The Octavia G-TEC can travel up to 1,330 km on a single tank. The bivalent engine runs on petrol and CNG. On CNG, the vehicle uses only 5.4 m3 (3.5 kg) of natural gas, corresponding to CO2 emissions of a mere 97g/km. The Octavia G-TEC is ŠKODA’s second natural gas vehicle after the Citigo G-TEC.

The top-of-the-range L&K standard will be seen in the new Octavia for the first time, being launched as the ŠKODA Octavia Laurin & Klement (L&K). The L&K range pays homage to the founding fathers of ŠKODA, Václav Laurin and Václav Klement. The Octavia L&K, as a saloon and estate, will be one of the best equipped cars in the compact segment. The car’s comfort features include bi-xenon headlights with integrated LED daytime-running lights, redesigned 18-inch wheels, a modern 4-spoke multifunction leather steering wheel and the CANTON sound system. In addition, high-quality materials and subtle design effects provide an air of elegance. There are three powerful engines, including the 135 kW 2.0 TDI Green tec with the fantastic combination of a six-speed DSG gearbox and four-wheel drive. This engine will be available from August 2014. ŠKODA has also improved the driving comfort of the Octavia L&K, with a new chassis set-up and with an emphasis on high-comfort suspension tuning.

The Octavia also features some exciting innovations. There are new sports steering wheels and new 16-inch alloy wheels for the Green Line version. The Optical Parking Assistant is also available upon request. The ‘Swing’ radio has been redesigned as well.

ŠKODA’s Monte Carlo model family has grown. The ŠKODA Yeti Monte Carlo has won over customers with dynamic design elements and extensive series-standard equipment. Among other things, there is a black-painted radiator grille frame and a black front spoiler. In addition, the Yeti Monte Carlo now has black 17-inch alloy wheels and tinted rear side windows and rear window (SunSet). The vehicle roof and the A, C & D pillars are painted black, as is the roof rack and the exterior mirror housings. A black rear diffuser highlights the car’s sporty appearance. The interior is equally as sporty, with 3-spoke sports steering wheels, sports seats, stainless steel pedals and Monte Carlo decorative trim.

ŠKODA will be offering brand new 3-spoke sports steering wheels and three new wheel designs for the Ambition and Elegance Yeti versions from the end of May. The exterior colour ‘Shark-Blue’ is to be replaced by the new colour ‘Laser-White’.

ŠKODA now offers a Monte Carlo version of the ŠKODA Citigo. This version will be available with all engines, a bivalent variant running on compressed natural gas and petrol as well. The special edition drives up on black 15-inch alloy wheels, and black 16-inch alloys will also be available as an option. The car comes with sports suspension, 15 millimetres lower compared to the standard Citigo. In addition, there are tinted windows, a black front and rear spoiler, a black diffuser and grille and black exterior mirror housings. The car also features a sporty interior, with a 3-spoke sports steering wheel, black roof lining, black interior lining and seat covers in Monte Carlo design. The instrument panel has a special Monte Carlo design with an inlaid pad in black decor paint.

As of September for the ŠKODA Citigo a high quality sound system with subwoofer and six speakers is available. Other new features are the optional three-spoke sports steering wheel and as standard equipment in the Ambition version a safety vest holder under the driver's seat.

The ŠKODA Rapid and ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback are also to be upgraded as part of the 2015-model year change. The manufacturer will be offering optional rain and light sensors on both models. The rain sensor attached to the windshield under the rear-view mirror automatically operates the wipers when it rains. The light sensor detects the intensity of the light outside and, for example, switches automatically from daytime running lights to low beam at the entrance to a tunnel. The light sensor also includes the ‘Coming home/Leaving home’ function.

A 3-spoke sports steering wheel upholstered in perforated leather is a new feature in the dynamic package for the Rapid and Rapid Spaceback. The leather steering wheels are to receive a silver-coloured decorative trim. ‘Laser-White’ and ‘Topaz-Brown’ (from CW38) are also going to be available as exterior colours. There is also going to be a new style package for the Rapid saloon. This includes black exterior mirror housings as well as the fog und rear lights encased in black.

A strikingly adventurous version of the ŠKODA Superb is now available. The special edition ŠKODA Superb Outdoor features robust panelling, attractive alloy wheels, a rough-road package, and other design elements. Except for the GreenLine version, the ŠKODA Superb Outdoor is available for virtually all Superb engine and transmission variants and with front or all-wheel drive.

The ŠKODA Fabia and ŠKODA Roomster are going to have slight changes to the range of colours available. The top bar of the radiator grille is to be painted in the same colour as the body in future editions of the Fabia Monte Carlo special model. The Fabia’s ‘Sky-Blue’ exterior is to be replaced with ‘Moon-White’. The Roomster will have ‘Laser-White’ and ‘Jungle-Green’ in place of ‘Shark-Blue’.

[Karlheinz]

Record: ŠKODA Ice Hockey World Championship main sponsor for 22nd time

› Strong team: 46 ŠKODA shuttle cars for World Championship organisers
› Reliable: ŠKODA fleet has covered around 5.5 million km in 22 years
› Visibility: Shuttles, car presentations, logo placement, jersey advertising for four teams, informative smartphone app
› ŠKODA official main sponsor of Ice Hockey WC since 1992; longest major sponsorship in history of sport world championships

Mladá Boleslav, 24 April 2014 – ŠKODA will be sponsoring the annual IIHF World Championships for the 22nd time in 2014. The Czech carmaker handed over the official shuttle fleet of 46 ŠKODAs (38 Octavias and 8 Superbs) to the World Championship Organising Committee in Minsk, Belarus today. The 78th championship takes place from 9 to 25 May in Minsk, Belarus.

ŠKODA has been supporting the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championships as the main sponsor since 1992. This is the longest main sponsorship in the history of sports world championships. The carmaker will reach a TV audience of around 800 million through a number of ways. This long-term commitment to supporting the championships was extended to 2017 two years ago.

The official IIHF World Championship vehicle fleet plays a central role in ŠKODA’s activities in the ice hockey world championships. Every year, ŠKODA provides the World Championship organisers with 40 to 50 vehicles. Over the last 22 years the fleets have covered around 5.5 million kilometres during their official use at the championships, and in that time, not a single car has broken down. The ŠKODA fleet covers an average of 250,000 km during each championship.

The manufacturer will be sending a particularly strong fleet to Minsk, with 38 ŠKODA Octavias and 8 ŠKODA Superbs. The new ŠKODA Octavia is the best Octavia of all time and has won over customers with dynamic designs maximum functionality and innovative technology. The ŠKODA Superb was comprehensively revised in 2013 and now features new design elements, fresh interiors and new technology. The 46 ŠKODA shuttle cars are primarily used to take passengers between arenas, airports, hotels and other destinations in Minsk. The silver fleet features the official World Championship design.

In addition to providing the fleet for officials and guests, ŠKODA will be an ever-present symbol in Minsk. 14 vehicles will be on display to attract the attention of spectators. The Octavia RS and the Rapid Spaceback can be seen at Minsk Arena and Cizovka Arena, and ice hockey fans arriving at Minsk Airport will be able to see the top-of-the-range ŠKODA Superb ‘Elegance’.

The Czech brand’s logo can be seen prominently on the ice rinks and boards as well. The logo also appears on four teams’ jerseys and helmets (Czech Republic, Slovakia, USA and Norway). A highlight for fans of digital applications is the exclusive smartphone app ‘2014 IIHF World Championship App powered by ŠKODA.

[Karlheinz]

Update: ŠKODA Media Services app even more user-friendly

4/29/2014

ŠKODA Media Services – new features and graphics. Top graphics and functionality, simplified navigation and search tools. 200,000 downloads worldwide – for iOS and Android.
The ŠKODA Media Services app has been updated and is now even more user-friendly. The application now features new graphic elements, increased clarity and new search options. The app provides journalists comprehensive information, data and facts about the brand and models.

The ŠKODA Media Services homepage is now easier to navigate, where users have immediate access to the latest news on the company. Details are also provided about content that has been posted since the last visit. The menu has been redesigned, now with rectangular menu items. This new display format makes the app easier to navigate on smaller screens.

The main objective when revising the graphics was to make the application as clear and simple as possible. The new layout follows the simple rule – less is more. Photos and videos can be viewed full screen. Achieved content is also significantly clearer, making it easier to search for information from previous years. In addition, the search options have been restructured.

The content shall remain comprehensive and up-to-date, focusing on ŠKODA press releases with current facts on the models and corporate developments. Other featured content can be found on trade fairs, brand history, along with current information from the world of ŠKODA Motorsport. ŠKODA Board Members’ CVs and current corporate publications are also available for download. There are even direct links to ŠKODA’s social media pages, such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

The ŠKODA Media Services app is available for iOS and Android, with content viewable in English, Czech and German.  The application can be found in the App Store and Google Play. Around 200,000 users have already downloaded the app.

You can find more information about the app, as well as the download links at

https://media.skoda-auto.com/en/Pages/SKODA-Media-Services.aspx.

[Karlheinz]

Record Quarter: ŠKODA delivers 247,200 vehicles to customers in the first
quarter; 12.1% increase

› Sales increase by 23.7% between January and March to three billion euros
› Operating profit increases by 65.2% to 185 million euros
› Model campaign picks up the pace in 2014

Mladá Boleslav, 30 April 2014 – ŠKODA’s deliveries, sales revenue and
operating profit increased dramatically in the first quarter of 2014. ŠKODA sold
a total of 247,200 vehicles in the first quarter; more than ever before in the first
three months of a year. This is an increase of 12.1% over the same period last
year. The carmaker’s sales revenue was a record high, increasing 23.7% over
the same period in 2013 to three billion euros (2.986 billion euros).

“ŠKODA has made an excellent start to 2014, continuing on its road to success,” says
ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. “Our model campaign is coming into fruition.
The best first sales quarter in our corporate history and the excellent developments in
sales revenue and profit have been the result of a strong team performance and working
consistently on renewing our model range. Our new models have been very well received
on the international markets, especially the new Octavia. We are delighted that we are
inspiring new consumer groups who are becoming increasingly interested in our brand.
We plan to grow further and lay increased emphasis on ŠKODA’s most comprehensive
model campaign ever.”

Between January and March 2014, ŠKODA’s sales revenues grew by 23.7% to nearly
three billion euros (2.986 billion euros). The operating profit stood at 185 million euros,
representing an increase of 65.2% over the first three months of 2013 (112 million
euros). The operating margin, at 6.2%, was well above the previous year’s figure of
4.6%. Alongside the increase in sales figures, the improved model line-up also
contributed significantly to the better operating profit. The company’s investments
reached 73 million euros.

“ŠKODA continued on the road of profitable growth during the first quarter,” explains
ŠKODA CFO Winfried Krause. “The investments into products over the last years to
renew the model range are now leading to an increase in sales revenue and operating
profit.

“These positive developments prove the company’s strength and will be the financial
basis for continuing our model campaign. At the same time, we remain committed to
strict cost discipline.”

[Karlheinz]

Trip to the mountains: ŠKODA quartet at Bodensee Klassik

› Historic ŠKODA Quartet at the start: Tudor, Felicia, 130 RS and Rapid
› ŠKODA kicks off the 2014 vintage car season
› Exiting the extra class through three countries: just under 600 kilometres, 180 participants

Mladá Boleslav, 30 April 2014 – ŠKODA is kicking off the 2014 vintage car season at the Bodensee Klassik. The brand will be sending a fantastic quartet of vehicles to the third run of the 600km uniformity & reliability drive around Lake Constance. The daily starting point and destination is Bregenz, Austria, and in between the cars will be following scenic routes through Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

“The Bodensee Klassik is one of the most beautiful and varied trips for vintage and classic cars alike,” says Ing Michal Velebný, coordinator of the ŠKODA museum restoration workshop. “The four ŠKODA vehicles taking part are true highlights of our 119-year history.”

A regular at vintage car rallies, and a car that is certainly going to be a real eye-catcher at Lake Constance too is the turquoise ŠKODA Felicia from 1961. The car comes from the historical corporate collection in Mladá Boleslav. With its elegant shape and distinctive tailfin, the 2+2-seater convertible is one of the most attractive open-top cars of the 1960s and is increasingly sought after by collectors. Weighing in at only 930kg, the Felicia is a true lightweight. The vehicle is powered by a four-cylinder petrol engine with 50hp and 1089 cm3 displacement, with a top speed of 130 km/h.

The ŠKODA 1101, better known as the 'Tudor', is an important ŠKODA representative of the post-war automotive era. The version driving at the Bodensee Klassik is a very special semi-convertible Tudor. For several years from April 1948, the vehicle served the Swiss Embassy in Prague, and was later decommissioned into private ownership. In 2005 the car was acquired by the ŠKODA Museum, where it was painstakingly restored. The four-cylinder engine provides 32hp and has a displacement of 1089 cm3.
The ŠKODA 130 RS was one of the world's most successful racing cars in the late 1970s and early 1980s. A vehicle from 1976 will be at the starting line in Bregenz, with the German rally champion Matthias Kahle at the wheel. The 130 RS was known in its time as the ‘Porsche of the East’, and achieved among other things a double victory at the Monte Carlo Rally in 1977 and the European Touring Car Championship in 1981. The engine has an output of 136hp at 8500 rev/min. The top speed is up to 200 km/h.

The youngest of the ŠKODA representatives on the starting grid is a 1984 ŠKODA Rapid. The two-door coupe was completely restored in 2013. The Rapid of that time was an interesting example of ŠKODA vehicles with a rear engine. The four-cylinder petrol engine with 1.3-litre engine delivers 58hp.

The third Bodensee Klassik stretches over three days (from 1 to 3 May), the starting point and destination is the Austrian city of Bregenz. Five stages are on the programme, running 600km through Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The participants can expect glorious Alpine landscapes with magnificent views. Not top speed; but reliability and uniformity determine victory and placement. The competition is open to historic vehicles built before 1994.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA produces three-millionth 1.2 HTP engine

Three-cylinder engine for ŠKODA, SEAT and Volkswagen models.
Another milestone in production: 500,000th MQ/SQ 100 gearbox.
ŠKODA: 115 years of engine development and production.
Carmaker continues to build on technological expertise.

ŠKODA AUTO has produced the three millionth petrol 1.2 HTP. The three-cylinder engine of the EA 111 series has been running off production lines at ŠKODA's main plant in Mladá Boleslav since 2001, and is used in ŠKODA, SEAT and Volkswagen brand vehicles. In addition to the EA 111-series in the 1.2 HTP and 1.2 TSI versions, ŠKODA produces the 1.2 TSI and 1.4 TSI engines of the EA 211 series, as well as manual and automatic gearboxes in the Czech Republic. The carmaker has also produced its500,000th MQ/SQ 100 gearbox.

“Our company has been building engines for almost 115 years. This makes ŠKODA one of the longest-established engine developers and producers in the automotive industry,” says Michael Oeljeklaus, ŠKODA Board Member for Production and Logistics. “The milestones of producing three million 1.2 HTP engines and 500,000 MQ/SQ 100 gearboxes prove the power of our local production. We are going to strengthen this technological expertise in the years to come.”

The 1.2 HTP engine of the EA 111 series has been produced in Mladá Boleslav since 2001. The popular three-cylinder petrol engine is used in ŠKODA’s Fabia, Roomster and Rapid. The abbreviation HTP stands for ‘High Torque Performance’. Even at low speeds, the engine delivers considerable power. At the same time, the engine offers high efficiency and low weight.

Besides engine construction, the focus of ŠKODA’s component manufacture is in gear production. The automatic dual-clutch gearbox DQ 200 is built at the Vrchlabí plant. ŠKODA produces the manual MQ 200 and MQ/SQ 100 gearboxes at the plant in Mladá Boleslav. 500,000 of the latter had been manufactured by the end of March this year. ŠKODA has been producing the MQ/SQ 100 since mid-2011. The MQ/SQ 100 is used in the city car – the ŠKODA Citigo, amongst others.

ŠKODA plans to build on its expertise in engine and gearbox manufacture over the coming years. To this end, the manufacturer has established a new Powertrain Centre at Česana’s ŠKODA Development Centre in Mladá Boleslav. The carmaker invested over 34 million euros into this project with support from the Volkswagen Group. This is currently the largest investment into development in the Czech Republic.

The foundry & forge is an important pillar of the innovative engine and transmission production at ŠKODA. The foundry & forge celebrated its 50th jubilee a few weeks ago. This area of production, founded in 1963 - shortly before the production of the ŠKODA 1000 MB was launched - is now one of the most advanced facilities of its kind, and is a Volkswagen Group ‘Centre of Excellence’.

ŠKODA began constructing engines in 1899. Four years after establishing the company, which began with the production of bicycles, the founding fathers Václav Laurin und Václav Klement created their first motor-assisted bicycle – the so called Motocyclette. A combination of two single-cylinder engines with 1.25 and 1.75hp was used to power the two-wheeler.

By launching this engine, the foundations were laid for one of the longest-established automotive companies in the world. In 1905 L&K developed the company’s first vehicle under the name ‘Voiturette A’ (French: little car). It was powered by a water-cooled, 7hp two-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1,100cc. Another early milestone came in 1908 with the development of the first eight-cylinder engine in the world. By 1924, L&K were even producing aircraft engines.

Even after the merger with the ŠKODA Works in 1925, the development of engines continued to play a major role. In the 1930s, ŠKODA also produced high-performance racing cars, among other things. After WWII, the first rear engine became a key evolutionary step in 1964. 1987 saw the return of the front-mounted engine. Joining forces with Volkswagen in 1991 became the decisive impetus for modern engine and transmission production.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA hosts Presidents Miloš Zeman and Joachim Gauck

› Exchanges between ŠKODA Board & trade union KOVO MB and ŠKODA apprentices & students
› ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland and ŠKODA Works Council Chairman Jaroslav Povšík meet both Heads of State
› Successful Czech-German partnership between ŠKODA and VW praised
› ŠKODA since 1991 deliveries increase five-fold, 11,000 new jobs, product range expands, development into an international volume manufacturer

Mladá Boleslav, 7 May 2014 – Distinguished visitors in Mladá Boleslav: Czech President Miloš Zeman and the German President Joachim Gauck were guests today at ŠKODA AUTO. Several matters were discussed at the meeting with ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland and the ŠKODA Works Council KOVO MB chairman Jaroslav Povšík, including the successful partnership between the Czech car manufacturer and Volkswagen AG. The two Heads of State also exchanged ideas with students from the ŠKODA University and ŠKODA Vocational College, and visited ŠKODA’s main factory and the ŠKODA Museum in Mladá Boleslav.

The connection between ŠKODA and the Volkswagen Group is one of the great success stories in automotive history, and represents the close ties between the Czech Republic and Germany. Volkswagen AG became a shareholder of ŠKODA AUTO in April 1991. This partnership and the expertise and dedication of the ŠKODA workforce have since then brought the revival of one of the longest-established vehicle manufacturers in the world. Over the coming years, ŠKODA will continue to grow in close collaboration with the parent company, and increase worldwide deliveries to at least 1.5 million vehicles annually.

“ŠKODA has seen some very significant developments over the past 23 years in its alliance with Volkswagen, and is now established as an international volume manufacturer on more than 100 markets,” says ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. “The rapid rise of the company is based on the trusting, committed and concerted action of Czechs and Germans together. Our partnership is a perfect example of the good economic and human interaction between our two countries. This close collaboration gives us the necessary vigour to continue writing ŠKODA’s success story for the years to come.”

“What ŠKODA and the whole team have achieved since 1991 is tremendous,” says ŠKODA Works Council KOVO MB Chairman Jaroslav Povšík. “The social dialogue between the trade union and the company is a key success factor, and makes a strong contribution to the positive development of the company. We are also in a cooperative exchange of ideas with the employee representatives of the Volkswagen Group.”

Since entering into partnership with Volkswagen in April 1991, the legendary automotive brand from the heart of Europe has gone from strength to strength. “It was an extremely far-sighted decision by the economic and political leaders of the time to give this German-Czech connection a chance. ŠKODA has seized this opportunity, and plans to significantly strengthen its performance over the coming years,” explains Vahland.

Over the past 23 years, the brand has increased its global sales five-fold, from less than 200,000 to around 921,000 vehicles in 2013. Where the Czech brand was once focused on its domestic market and Eastern & Central European countries in the nineties, today ŠKODA is established as an international volume manufacturer with a presence in over 100 countries. The company has forged a path over the European boarders under the umbrella of the Volkswagen Group, and has expanded its position in the growth regions around the world. China has been the Czechs’ strongest individual market since 2010, where one in four ŠKODAs are now sold.

The manufacturer is now setting new goals. As part of the ŠKODA growth strategy, global sales are expected to rise to at least 1.5 million units per year.

It was around three years ago that the most comprehensive model campaign in ŠKODA’s history began. The product range has grown to seven model series with over 40 variations. Eight new or completely revised models were introduced in 2013 alone. ŠKODA’s model & design campaign will be moving into the next stage this year. The new Octavia G-TEC – the first series-produced Octavia powered by natural gas – is soon to be launched on the market, with the new ŠKODA Octavia Scout to follow this summer.

ŠKODA – A pillar of the Czech economy

ŠKODA is a pillar of the Czech economy and the heart of the Czech car industry. In 2013 ŠKODA products accounted for approximately 8% of total Czech exports. ŠKODA is the production company with the highest sales in Central Europe. ŠKODA has invested around 280 billion Czech crowns into the Czech Republic since 1991.

Moreover, ŠKODA has significant importance as an employer in the Czech Republic. Since entering into partnership with Volkswagen, ŠKODA has created more than 11,000 new jobs. The company currently employs around 24,000 people in the country.

With three manufacturing facilities at Mladá Boleslav, the East Bohemian town of Kvasiny and Vrchlabí at the foot of the Giant Mountains, the company makes a significant contribution to securing the future of the Czech automotive industry, which today employs around 150,000 people. In 2013, more than 50% of the vehicles produced in the Czech Republic were built by ŠKODA. In addition, ŠKODA is the only car manufacturer to both manufacture vehicles in the Czech Republic, and also carry out R&D. Almost 2000 qualified specialists, engineers, designers and engineers work in the Czech development department.

The excellent partnership and the close social dialogue between the company and the KOVO MB trade union also play an important role in the competitiveness of the company and its locations. An extensive collective agreement was concluded in 2013, incorporating greater employee flexibility and a binding employment agreement; a combination that is so far unique in the Czech Republic.

ŠKODA is also firmly committed to training young people. The ŠKODA Vocational College currently provides training to nearly 1000 young people in many technical subjects. All students receive a job offer upon completion of their studies. The company continuously invests in the quality of education. This year, 45 million crowns will go into new technical equipment and renovations at the vocational college.
The company is particularly interested in inspiring young people to take up careers in technical fields. The existing cooperation with eleven vocational schools in the country is currently being expanded. One key way ŠKODA lends support is by providing vehicles for technical training. Between 2009 and 2013, the Czech manufacturer supplied the colleges with 300 ŠKODA vehicles for this purpose.

ŠKODA University represents the pinnacle of training in higher education. 370 new students began their studies in 2013. In the future, the university plans to become even more international, after concluding the 2013 partnership agreement with Dalian University in China.

The ŠKODA Trainee Programme for master’s graduates from predominantly technical universities and business schools is particularly popular. The Trainee Programme runs twice a year (each April and September) and is undertaken annually by 30 young talents.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA Model Powerplay at 78th IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship in Belarus

› 46 ŠKODAs serve as official championship fleet in Belarus: 38 Octavias and 8 Superbs
› ŠKODA official main sponsor of Ice Hockey World Championship for 22nd time; longest main sponsorship in the history of sport world championships
› Strong presence: Shuttles, vehicle presentations, logo placements, jersey advertising for four teams, informative smartphone app
› Premiere: Live broadcasts at Na Karmeli Education Centre in Mladá Boleslav

Mladá Boleslav/Minsk, 9 May 2014 – ŠKODA will be showing a true model powerplay at the 78th IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship. A total of 46 ŠKODA vehicles are to serve as the exclusive World Championship fleet. In addition, the company will be ever present with a variety of activities during the championships. ŠKODA is the official main sponsor of the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championships for the 22nd time, taking place this year from 9 to 25 May in Minsk, Belarus.

​ŠKODA has supported the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championships since 1992, and has been their main sponsor since 1993. This is the longest main sponsorship in the history of sport world championships – an official Guinness World Record. From the very beginning, a key element of the support have been the exclusive features of the official vehicle fleet. This year, 46 ŠKODA vehicles will be there: 38 ŠKODA Octavias and 8 ŠKODA Superbs.

Being the main sponsor and through the associated activities surrounding the World Championships, ŠKODA will reach an audience of millions. 800 million Ice Hockey fans will be watching the World Championship on the TV or online. This is a long-term commitment for ŠKODA, and the contract was renewed two years ago until 2017.

The 46 ŠKODA vehicles will primarily be used to transport passengers between World Championship arenas, airports, hotels and other destinations in Minsk. All vehicles are painted silver and carry the official World Championship design.

In addition to providing the official World Championship fleet, ŠKODA will be flying the flag high with a number of other activities. 14 other ŠKODA vehicles will be presented in the stadiums and at other prominent locations. The ŠKODA Octavia RS and the ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback can be seen at the Minsk Arena and Cizovka Arena, and ice hockey fans arriving at Minks Airport will be able to see the ŠKODA Superb ‘Elegance’.

Furthermore, the Czech manufacturer will be visible on the ice and boards at all times in the stadium and on the screens thanks to prominent placement of the ŠKODA logo. The large ŠKODA Logo in the centre circle has long been a hallmark of the IIHF-World Championship. The logo also appears on four teams’ jerseys and helmets (Czech Republic, Slovakia, USA and Norway). 

A special app has been exclusively designed for the world championship – the ‘2014 IIHF World Championship App powered by ŠKODA’, providing all the information about the World Championship for free directly to ice hockey fans’ smartphones and tablet devices. 

Every year ŠKODA provides the organisers with 40 to 50 cars. Over the last 22 years, the fleets have covered around 5.5 million kilometres during their official use at the championships, and in that time, not a single car has broken down. The ŠKODA fleet covers an average of 250,000 km during each world championship.


Dates and facts on ŠKODA’s main sponsorship of the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship:

Longest main sponsorship in the history of sport world championships
ŠKODA has been the official main sponsor of the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championships for the past 22 years, making this the longest uninterrupted main sponsorship in the history of sport world championships and is even recognised as such by the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS.

Long-term commitment

The sponsorship contract, running since the 1993 IIHF World Championship in Germany, was extended to 2017 two years ago. 

Promoting ice hockey at all levels

ŠKODA has been actively involved in promoting ice hockey since the company’s strategic commitment to the sport began 22 years ago. The Czech carmaker working in close partnership with the IIHF World Federation at the Ice Hockey World Championships is just one example.   ŠKODA also provides support to national hockey associations and leagues.

Innovative sponsorship

During the 20-year main sponsorship, ŠKODA has repeatedly presented ideas and expertise in innovative and optimized advertising, which have since become industry standard in many hockey arenas today. Exclusive under-ice adverts in the centre circle, textile inlays, using distilled water on ice surfaces and presenting vehicles on the ice rink are all measures that were first implemented in partnership with ŠKODA at IIHF Ice Hockey World Championships.

ŠKODA World Championship fleet 137 times around the globe without breaking down

40 to 50 ŠKODA vehicles are deployed to take officials and guests wherever they need to go at every IIHF Ice Hockey world championships.  The ŠKODA World Championship fleets have driven a total of 5.5 million kilometres over the past 22 years – the equivalent of 137 times around the globe. Never during this time has a single journey been interrupted due to technical issues with any ŠKODA vehicle.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA: Best April in corporate history

› ŠKODA deliveries increase by 15.5% to 89,600 cars (April 2013: 77,600)
› Growth in all major sales regions; up 20.7% in Europe
› New ŠKODA Octavia still number one: almost 60% increase in Western Europe
› ŠKODA model campaign continues with Octavia G-TEC and Octavia Scout

Mladá Boleslav, 12 May 2014 – ŠKODA’s worldwide deliveries increased 15.5% to 89,600 cars in April (April 2013: 77,600), making it the best April in the company’s history. ŠKODA grew by 20.7% in Europe, in China by 7.6% and in Russia by 3%. The new ŠKODA Octavia has proved to be a huge hit, recording an increase in sales of around a third. Deliveries of the ŠKODA Octavia even rose by almost 60% in Western Europe.

“We are pleased to be continuing the positive trend of the last few months,” says Werner Eichhorn, ŠKODA Head of Sales and Marketing. “Our attractive and young model range is inspiring more and more customers. After achieving the best April ever, we have seamlessly continued our sales record from the first quarter.” The brand sold more cars in the first three months of the year than ever before in a first quarter.

Over the coming months, the manufacturer plans to continue the most comprehensive model campaign in corporate history with new models. Later this month the new ŠKODA Octavia G-TEC – the first Octavia to run on natural gas – will be celebrating its premiere. The new ŠKODA Octavia Scout will be released on the markets this summer. In addition, three new sporty Monte Carlo versions of the ŠKODA Yeti, ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback and ŠKODA Citigo will be coming out soon. The company will also be introducing the new ŠKODA Octavia und den ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback in China – the brand’s largest individual market – in the first half of this year. The ŠKODA Rapid has complemented the brand’s model range in Russia since April.

In April the Czech brand once again recorded significant growth in Western Europe. Deliveries to customers increased by 22.1% to 36,600 vehicles (April 2013: 29,900), meaning ŠKODA has grown significantly in all individual markets. In Germany – the brand’s largest European market – ŠKODA deliveries increased 16.2% to 12,900 cars, where the Czech manufacturer is also the clear leader in import models. With an increase of 26.2% to 6200 vehicles delivered, the brand continues to perform excellently on the UK market.

ŠKODA sales more than doubled in the Netherlands (1600 vehicles; up 103.2%). ŠKODA also achieved double-digit growth in Belgium (1900 vehicles; up 28.9%), France (1900 vehicles; up 17.3%), Spain (1700 vehicles; up 28.7%), Switzerland (1500 vehicles; up 34.2%), Italy (1300 vehicles; up 11.4%), Austria (2000 vehicles; up 19.6%), Finland (800 vehicles; up 20.9%), Ireland (500 vehicles; up 26.4%), Greece (300 vehicles; up 33.3%) and Portugal (300 vehicles; up 48.0%).

In Eastern Europe, ŠKODA grew 1.6% to 10,700 vehicles delivered this April (April 2013: 10,500). In Russia – the brand’s third-largest market worldwide – 7700 vehicles were delivered to customers, representing an increase of 3.2% over April 2013. (April2013: 7500). ŠKODA also recorded double-digit growth in Romania (600 vehicles; up 38.7%), Serbia (500 vehicles; up 60.7%), the Baltic States (500 vehicles; up 51.7%) and Kazakhstan (400 vehicles; up 43.1%).

ŠKODA sales increased by more than a third in Central Europe this April. Deliveries to customers increased 35.8% to 14,600 vehicles (April 2013: 10,800). The brand achieved an outstanding sales result in their Czech home market, recording growth of 38.9% to 7100 vehicles delivered (April 2013: 5100). In Croatia, 700 customers opted for a ŠKODA – almost four times as many as April 2013. ŠKODA is also going from strength to strength in Poland (4200 vehicles; up 28.1%), Slovakia (1400 vehicles; up 11.2%), Hungary (800 vehicles; up 25.5%) and Slovenia (400 vehicles; up 34.0%).

ŠKODA’s strongest individual market this April was China once again, where deliveries to customers increased by 7.6% to 21,900 vehicles (April 2013: 20,400). In India, ŠKODA sold 1200 vehicles in April (April 2013: 2000). ŠKODA deliveries to customers in April 2014 (in units, rounded off, by model; +/- in % over the same month last year):

ŠKODA Octavia (33,000; +5.5 %)
ŠKODA Rapid (16,900; +157.7 %)
ŠKODA Fabia (15,000; -20.1 %)
ŠKODA Yeti (10,400; +52.8 %)
ŠKODA Superb (7500; -4.0 %)
ŠKODA Citigo (Sold only in Europe: 3900; +11.0 %)
ŠKODA Roomster (2800; +1.4 %)