ENG: Škoda Official Site News & Press Release

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA: 77,600 Deliveries in April

› Manufacturer delivers over 298,000 cars between January and April 2013
› ŠKODA market share in Czech Republic increases to 34.1% in April
› Continuing the ŠKODA model campaign with the new ŠKODA Octavia Combi
› 2013 to see 8 new or revised ŠKODA models

Mladá Boleslav, 16th May, 2013 – ŠKODA achieved worldwide sales of over 77,600 vehicles in April 2013; 4.6% down on April 2012. ŠKODA sales were also influenced by the start of production of the new Octavia and Octavia Combi back in April. Similarly, the continuing weakness of some European markets had a knock-on effect on sales figures. Between January and April the Czech car manufacturer delivered over 298,000 vehicles worldwide; down 8% on the same period last year.

“The new ŠKODA models have received a very positive response from our customers. Renewing and broadening our range of models will have a positive impact on ŠKODA sales for the rest of the year, even in some of the more difficult markets”, explains ŠKODA CEO, Prof. Dr. h. c. Winfried Vahland. “Due to the start of production of the new Octavia and Octavia Combi, we had anticipated that in the first half of this year, we would not achieve the same figures as this period last year”, Vahland continues, “In addition to that, some markets are still under pressure, which we cannot completely avoid either.”

In light of the introduction of 8 new or revised models, the Czech car manufacturer remains positive about the year as a whole.

In Western Europe, ŠKODA delivered 29,900 vehicles in April; 1.4% down on April 2012 with 30,400. The brand saw significant growth in the UK (+16.4%), Italy (+36.2%), Spain (+12.9%) and Portugal (+7.5%). ŠKODA also did very well in the Scandinavian countries; in Denmark sales grew by 151.7%, in Finland by 38% and in Sweden by 46.4%.

In Eastern Europe, ŠKODA achieved sales of 10,500 units in April (April 2012: 12,300; -14.3%). In Russia, the Czechs sold 7,500 vehicles (April 2012: 8,800; -14.9%). Between January and April, a total of 26,100 units were delivered to Russian customers (Jan to Apr 2012: 28,000; -6.7%), making Russia once again ŠKODA’s third largest sales market worldwide behind China and Germany in the first 4 months of 2013.

In Central Europe, ŠKODA reached a total market share of around 20% with 10,800 vehicles sold (April 2012: 11,600; -6.8%) On the Czech market ŠKODA delivered over 5,100 vehicles in April (April 2012: 5,500; -6.0%). ŠKODA’s market share in the generally week home market grew to 34.1% (April 2012: 32.7%).

Once again, ŠKODA’s strongest market was China with almost 20,400 deliveries to customers in April. This represents a slight increase of 0.1% over April 2012. The Czechs sold 78,100 vehicles to Chinese customers in the first four months of the year (between January and April 2012: 79,600; -1.9%). The manufacturer expects further growth in China for the second half of the year, mainly due to the introduction of the new ŠKODA Rapid and the new import models; the ŠKODA Yeti and ŠKODA Superb Combi in the coming weeks.

ŠKODA’s deliveries to customers – April 2013 (in units, rounded to the nearest 100 and arranged according to model; +/- % compared to April 2012):

ŠKODA Octavia (31,300; -14.4%)
ŠKODA Fabia (18,800; -14.5%)
ŠKODA Superb (7,800; -19.4%)
ŠKODA Yeti (6,800; -10.0%)
ŠKODA Roomster (2,800; -15.5%)
ŠKODA Rapid (6,600; new model)
ŠKODA Citigo (only sold in Europe: 3,500; new model)

[Karlheinz]

Sweden is the New Ice Hockey World Champion – Roman Jossi Most Valuable Player in the 2013 IIHF World Championship
 
Mladá Boleslav/Stockholm, 20th May, 2013 – Sweden is the ice hockey world champion of 2013. The Swedish Team won the final of the 2013 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship 5:1 against Switzerland. Roman Jossi from the Swiss team was named ’Most Valuable Player’ in this year’s World Championship. ŠKODA CEO, Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland presented Roman Jossi with the trophy as part of the closing ceremony. This is the 21st time that ŠKODA has supported the championships as the main sponsor.


ŠKODA CEO, Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland and IIHF World Championship main sponsor presents the trophy for the Most Valuable Player in the tournament to Swiss Roman Jossi.

[Karlheinz]

2013 ŠKODA bicycle collection now featuring 29-inch mountain bikes

› ŠKODA Original Accessories presents attractive cycles
› No less than three new 29-inch moutain bikes on offer
› Ten bikes on offer from child’s training bike via child and youngster bikes, trekking and mountain bikes to high-tech racers
› Long tradition: brand’s founding fathers made bicycles from 1895

Mladá Boleslav, May 28, 2013 – Boasting no less than ten new models, ŠKODA’s 2013 bicycle collection is more diverse and attractive than ever before. ŠKODA’s current bike line-up features children’s and youngsters’ bikes as well as high-tech racers, trekking and mountain bikes. Available for the first time are 29-inch mountain bikes, a category that is currently especially popular.

ŠKODA Original Accessories presents a broad collection comprising a total of ten models aimed at a variety of uses and age groups, even including a trainer bike for toddlers. ŠKODA designers had a hand in styling the bikes. The colours white, green and black stand out, with each bike bearing the ŠKODA lettering. As in past years, the bikes’ technology is provided by “Superior” brand.
On-road cyclists can choose from two race bikes: the top-of-the-line “ŠKODA Road Elite” weighs in at a mere 7.9 kg and comes with a carbon frame and Shimano Ultegra components. The “ŠKODA Road” also impresses with its aluminium frame, light weight (8.6 kg) and advanced technology such as Shimano’s 105 group.

Mountain bike enthusiasts can look forward to no less than four new ŠKODA models, three of them in the wildly popular 29-inch category. The “ŠKODA MTB 29 Elite” leads the pack and featuring a carbon frame, Shimano Deore XT and SLX components and a weight of just 11.7 kg. The “ŠKODA MTB 29+” impresses with an aluminium frame, a trim level comparable to that of the “MTB 29 Elite” and a weight of just 13.2 kg. Hobby bikers will like the “ŠKODA MTB 29” with an aluminium frame, hydraulic disk brakes, front fork suspension and Shimano Deore components inlcuding a 21-gear shift. Also on offer is the “ŠKODA MTB 26” with an aluminium frame, hydraulic disk brakes and Shimano Alivio and Deore components.
Its new trim marks out the “ŠKODA Cross” trekking bike. ŠKODA also fills the needs of children with the 20-inch “ŠKODA Junior” cycle. The “ŠKODA Kid” is aimed at smaller children, while the “ŠKODA Mini” training bike is for the very small.
ŠKODA’s current bicycle offering again underscores the company’s special relationship with two-wheelers. The brand’s success at its home location in Mladá Boleslav began with bicycle-making. As early as the late 19th century, in December 1895, Václav Laurin, acycle mechanic, and Václav Klement, a bookseller, founded a bicycle factory there under the name Laurin & Klement (L&K). These two enthusiastic pioneers of mobility first made bicycles under the Slavia brand name, then motorcycles from 1899 and finally, in 1905, the ”Voiturette A,” the brand’s first automobile. In 1925, L&K merged with ŠKODA.

Today, ŠKODA brand’s close attachment to cycling shows in a substantial sponsoring commitment. Besides international races such as the “Tour de France” and the “Giro d’Italia,” ŠKODA has long supported cycling activities in the Czech Republic including the popular “Kolo pro život” (“Bike for life”), the world’s largest mountain bike racing series. In the past thirteen years, a total of about 160,000 professional and amateur racers took part in this event, 20,000 in 2012 alone. In addition, ŠKODA organises the “Virtual Cup” aimed at all comers, which has cycling enthusiasts competing on one of 16 race courses.

For information on the current 2013 bicycle collection and ordering, please go to http://eshop.skoda-auto.com.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA enables Jiří Ježek to take part in the Tour de France

Mladá Boleslav/Prague, 30 May 2013 – Jiří Ježek, one of the world´s best handicapped athletes, will take part in the Tour de France on 10 July thanks to ŠKODA AUTO, a long-time partner of the Czech Paralympic Team and also a partner of the Tour de France. David Vlk, a talented fifteen-year-old photographer, will cover Ježek´s appearance in a 33-kilometre-long time trial. Also handicapped, David Vlk is thus going to see his big dream come true. Stage 11 of the Tour de France ends in Mont Saint Michel, a rocky tidal island that is a world cultural heritage site.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA Flagship: Production Starts on the redesigned ŠKODA Superb

› Top model with new look now rolling off the Kvasiny production line
› Extensive modernization and expansion of the plant
› Superb and Superb Combi just got even better


Kvasiny, 30th May, 2013 – ŠKODA started production today on the all new
Superb saloon and combi at the Kvasiny plant. The car manufacturer has
modernized and expanded the Kvasiny production facilities to accommodate the
production of the new top model.

“We have once again achieved a success in production engineering,” says Michael
Oeljeklaus, ŠKODA Board Member for production and logistics. He continues, “The whole
team from production, planning, tool construction and logistics have done a fantastic job
coming together to work on the fourth start of production this year alone.”
In connection to the production launch of the new Superb, the assembly and body shop
have been modernized with new equipment and tools. The logistics process has also been
optimized: The vehicle axles are now being delivered directly to the production lines
through the ‘Just-in-Sequence’. The manufacturer has also designed new test rigs for the
final assembly, such as the test system for vehicle geometry.
The redesigned ŠKODA Superb is now being produced at the modernized Kvasiny plant.
The brand’s flagship boasts attractive new ŠKODA design elements, a fresh interior and
improved technical features. The consumption and emissions of the engine range have
dropped by up to 19%. The market launch for both the saloon and combi is set for the
end of June.

Kvasiny is one of three ŠKODA production facilities in the Czech Republic, where about
4,500 people are employed. Alongside the Superb, the ŠKODA Roomster and ŠKODA Yeti
also roll off Kvasiny’s production lines. A total of 153,700 vehicles were produced there in
2012. In the course of expanding the facility and relocating the Roomster from Vrchlabí
to Kvasiny, a new logistics hall and assembly line were built for the Roomster in January
this year. In addition, the axis assembly started in Kvasiny. A new hall for chassis
production is planned for later this year.

[Karlheinz]

Great Automobile Tradition at 30th Oldtimer Rallye Wiesbaden - ŠKODA 645 on the Starting Line


› Elegant and noble: Representative ŠKODA touring car from 1930
› ŠKODA Classic presents beautifully restored luxury saloon
› 30th Wiesbaden vintage car rally with 150 participants from 30 May to 2 June


Mladá Boleslav, 31st May, 2013 – ŠKODA Classic will be at the starting line in a ŠKODA 645 at this year’s vintage car rally in Wiesbaden (30th May to 2nd June). This unique ŠKODA Muzeum exhibit dates back to 1930 and has been restored to its former glory by ŠKODA.
The ŠKODA 645 is an outstanding representative of the prestigious 1920s and 1930s touring saloons. Between 1929 and 1934, a mere 758 units of the ŠKODA 645 were built. In its time, the ŠKODA 645 was typically a chauffeur-driven saloon. ŠKODA presented the model for the first time in Prague during the autumn of 1929.
The 645 starting in Wiesbaden is a four-door saloon from 1930. The vehicle has been in the ŠKODA Muzeum’s collection since 1974 and has taken approximately 3,600 hours to painstakingly restore. “The ŠKODA 645 is a wonderful car and a highlight of the rich history our brand has” says Eva Ticová, restoration workshop manager at the ŠKODA Muzeum. She continues, “Aesthetics and driveability inspire drivers and spectators alike, which will also be the case in Wiesbaden.”
The ŠKODA 645 was named as such at the end of the 1920s with respect to its engine power. The first digit ‘6’ shows the number of cylinders: an in-line, six-cylinder SV with a 2,492 cc displacement providing the propulsion. ‘45’ stands for the horsepower: the powertrain delivers 45 HP at 3.000 rpms. The construction of the vehicle chassis is typical of construction at that time - the body is a composite construction of a wooden frame and metal panels set on a ladder frame.
The Wiesbaden vintage car rally (Oldtimer Rallye Wiesbaden) is taking place this coming long weekend for the 30th time. The cars will be driven through the beautiful streets of Rheingau and Taunus. The starting point and finish are located in the Hessian capital of Wiesbaden. A total of 150 historical vehicles will be taking part in the event organised by the Hesse Motor Sport Club (HMSC).

[Karlheinz]

The New ŠKODA Octavia RS: The Fastest Octavia Ever


› Pure emotion - the new ŠKODA Octavia RS
› Perfect combination of sportiness, space and functionality
› From 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds, max. 248 km/h
› 2 new engines: more performance, lower fuel consumption, fewer emissions
› Innovative technology: safety and comfort assistance systems, progressive steering
› New: Bi-xenon headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights
› Powerful performance, sporty interior and extra sound for that racing feel, five fantastically designed alloy wheels
› World debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on 10th July, 2013


Mladá Boleslav, 5th June, 2013 – The curtain rises for the fastest series production Octavia ever: the new ŠKODA Octavia RS celebrates its world debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on the 10th of July. The Czech manufacturer continues the most comprehensive model campaign in the company’s history with this latest model. The third generation Octavia RS/Octavia Combi RS really creates a big impression with its powerful and efficient engines, racy design and innovative technology.
​"The new ŠKODA Octavia RS is a in sports league of its own," says ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. "Our latest model stands for horsepower and fuel efficiency and, at the same time, for emotion and rationality. Never before has an Octavia RS been so fast and dynamic and yet so spacious, convenient, safe and comfortable as the third generation of our compact sports car. In this perfect combination, the new Octavia RS and Octavia Combi RS set new standards in the sporty compact class and also takes the brand’s sporty genes with it on the road. A perfect car for free time and everyday use, maximum power, the latest technology and great value for money," explains Vahland.

The new Octavia RS accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 248 km/h (with manual six-speed gearbox). The new model also offers all the outstanding features of the new ŠKODA Octavia: highest functionality, plenty of room, top-safety, state-of-the-art assistance systems in terms of safety and comfort as well as being excellent value for money. The new ŠKODA Octavia RS will be available for retail on European markets as of July, starting in the UK. 

Two new engines power the new ŠKODA Octavia RS. There is a choice of the two-litre petrol 162 kW (220 HP) or two-litre diesel 135 kW (184 HP). The 2.0 TSI-petrol, in conjunction with the six-speed manual gearbox, thrusts the Octavia RS from 0 to 100 km/h in only 6.8 seconds. The maximum speed now lies at 248 km/h, making it 6 km/h faster than the second generation Octavia RS. The new Octavia RS 2.0 TDI-diesel manages 0 to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds with a top speed of 232 km/h (with six-speed manual gearbox).

Compared to the second generation Octavia RS, the new engines provide more power whilst consuming up to 19% less fuel. Start-Stop and Brake Energy Regeneration are fitted as standard. A manual gearbox or DSG dual clutch transmission are available as options for both engines, each with six gears.

Modern suspension optimizes the handling of the compact sports car. The new ŠKODA Octavia RS is fitted with sports suspension as standard. The body has also been lowered by 12mm compared to the standard Octavia (Octavia Combi RS body: 13 mm). The newly developed multi-link axle is used as the rear axle. For precise track guidance, there is a MacPherson strut with underlying triangle wishbone. Electronic differential lock XDS integrated into the electronic stability control (ESC) now comes as standard. This function improves the traction of the wheels and reduces the tendency to understeer in fast cornering. For better handling and greater agility comes the new electro-mechanical progressive steering. Thanks to this technology, the driver can make smaller movements in steering to achieve the desired turning radius. That means less grip is needed for tight corners.

Speed and class are conveyed in the new ŠKODA Octavia RS design from the word go. Either as Octavia RS or Octavia Combi RS, the latest ŠKODA model really shows off its lean sporty genes. It is clear to onlookers from the start that this is the new sporty Octavia RS and the brand’s new design language shines through.  The front view is dominated by the creative interplay of the characteristic ŠKODA front grille sporting the RS badge, distinctive honeycomb air intakes, a new RS-style front bumper and fog lights as well as the new bi-xenon headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights now fitted as standard.
 
From the side view the car is considerably lower compared to the standard Octavia body.  In comparison to the second generation Octavia RS, the vehicle has grown significantly in length (+88 mm, combi +86 mm) and width (+45 mm). At the same time the wheelbase has risen by 102mm, enhancing the powerful image of the car as the shortened overhang. The series standard, red-lacquered brake callipers provide pure emotion, as do the powerful proportions, high tornado line and sharp, precise edges and lines. 

The Octavia RS’s new light-alloy wheels lend the car a particularly sporty look. The designers have created four new 17, 18 and 19 inch wheel designs. The tyres have an impressive racy two-tone look, a distinctive outfit, visual lightness, sharp edges and a finish precise to the smallest detail.  The new Octavia RS drives on the series standard  ‘Dorado’ 17 inch light alloys fitted with 225/45 tyres.  Then there are the optional 18 inch ‘Gemini’ and ‘Pictoris’ alloys (each for 225/40 tyres). Two colours are available for the ‘Gemini’: silver und anthracite. Anyone who appreciates ultra-sporty wheels will love ŠKODA’s accessories for the Octavia RS and there are yet more treats in store like the ‘Xtrem’ 19 inch light alloys in black.

The rear is dominated in the lower section by a strong black diffuser element and the overlying wide reflector spotlight. These elements are also distinctive features of the new Octavia RS just like the two large, trapezoidal-shaped chrome exhaust tailpipes. Then there are the rear lights fitted as standard with LED technology in the brand’s typical C-shape.  And we have not forgotten about the spoiler, which, on the Combi RS, is fitted as a roof-edge spoiler. 

The interior of the new ŠKODA Octavia RS is characterized by the sporty, black interior. The interior of the front doors is newly equipped with integrated ambient lighting for the internal door handles. There are newly developed RS-design sports seats for the driver and passenger and a sporty 3-spoke steering wheel with perforated leather is fitted as standard. The gear stick and handbrake are also of leather. The sill plates and pedals are made of stainless steel. The instrument panel with a rich-colour Maxi DOT display has its own unique RS design. The Steering wheel, gear stick, door sill panels, seats and floor mats all sport the RS logo.

In addition to its sporty features, the new ŠKODA Octavia boasts all the outstanding attributes that distinguish it as the new Octavia in both body versions.  These primarily include the superior interior space and numerous ‘Simply Clever’ solutions. Our well-known ŠKODA quality is also an integral part of the sporty version.

Space like no other: no other compact sports car offers more interior length (1.782 mm), more legroom (73 mm) or more headroom in the back (980 mm). Even the boot sets another record in the class: The boot volume in the Octavia RS increased by 5 litres to 590 litres, and the combi RS’s has increased to 610 litres.

Added to that, there are a whole host of other ‘Simply Clever’ features, such as the foldable cargo items as well as the double-sided boot flooring, an ice scraper in the fuel cap and the high-vis jacket under the driver’s seat. There are also litter containers, multimedia holders and a number of storage compartments, holders and hooks fitted as standard in the new Octavia RS. The new Octavia Combi RS has an optional adjustable boot floor. The jacket shelf under the boot cover is new in the Combi RS. The roller cover for the boot can be removed and stowed under the adjustable loading floor. The backrest of the rear seat can also be folded 60:40.

The new ŠKODA Octavia RS boasts the highest level of safety.  Included in the newly developed safety system are the Front Assistant with city emergency braking, Lane Assistant to keep you on track, Multi-Collision Braking with automatic brake intervention in the event of an accident, Crew Protect Assistant to protect the vehicle under accident conditions and the Driver Activity Assistant (fatigue detection). In the event of an accident, a comprehensive package of passive safety features work to provide the best possible protection for the driver and passengers with up to nine airbags amongst other things.

The car leaves nothing to be desired in terms of comfort thanks to the many on board comfort systems. Upon request, the new ŠKODA Octavia RS comes with Adaptive Cruise Assistant, which keeps a set distance from the car ahead. The new Intelligent Light Assistant automatically switches the long-beam lights on and off. The Automatic Parking Assistant supports you getting in and out of tight spaces. The road sign detection in the ‘Traveller Assistant’ package indicates traffic signals.

KESSY Keyless-Entry-Start-and-Exit-System is also available upon request for the new Octavia RS along with the electric panoramic sunroof for both body versions.  In addition, there is a completely new generation of infotainment radio and navigation systems. Swing – the CD/radio with TFT monochrome display is also fitted as standard in the brand’s latest model with four front and rear speakers. Up to 8 full-size touch screens with proximity sensors are fitted in higher systems.  The CANTON Sound System offers passengers sound-optimized audio for pure listening pleasure.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA Felicia on the Starting line at Alpine Rally in Kitzbühel


​› Elegant 1961 Cabriolet on the starting field for the second time
› ŠKODA’s third time at Kitzbühel
› 26th occasion of the Alpine Rally with around 200 historical vehicles

Mladá Boleslav, 5th June, 2013 – ŠKODA Classic will be taking the elegant ŠKODA Felicia Cabriolet to the prestigious Alpine Rally. The 26th occasion of the classic car rally through the beautiful Tyrolean Mountains takes place from 5 to 8 June. Around 200 classic cars are expected in Kitzbühel.
​The ŠKODA Felicia Cabriolet belongs to the squad of elegant cabriolets from the 1960s. In total, over 14,860 units were built between 1959 and 1964. A particularly attractive example in turquoise-blue from the ŠKODA Museum collection will be at the Alpine Rally starting line. The car has been painstakingly restored at the museum's restoration workshop.

The 1961 ŠKODA Felicia convertible is powered by a 50hp, 1,089cc, four-cylinder engine with a top speed of 128 km/h. “This wonderful Cabriolet will be an impressive figure on the charming Alpine panorama and will master the slopes with ease”, explains Eva Ticová, restoration workshop manager at the ŠKODA MUSEUM.

ŠKODA is taking part at the Kitzbühel Alpine Rally for the third time since 2011. The Czech brand started in a 1948 ŠKODA Tudor 1101 in the first year.

The rally is one of the largest and most popular classic car events in Europe. This year cars built up to 1976 will be competing. Waiting for them are around 500 kilometres of track on the most beautiful mountain roads in Tyrol and Salzburg. On Thursday morning, a 70-kilometer prologue takes place and Friday sees the "royal" mountain stage through the breath-taking scenery of Salzburg's Lammer valley. On Saturday through the Bavarian region of Chiemgau down to the Tyrol Lower Inn Valley, finishing with the highlight on Saturday afternoon – the vehicle parade in front of thousands of fans in Kitzbühel town centre.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA Focuses on Health and Prevention


› Employee health and safety forms the focus of ŠKODA’s personnel work
› ‘Ergonomics Day’ helps to continuously improve working conditions and processes at the company
› Inter-divisional events in close partnership with trade unions


Mladá Boleslav, 11th June, 2013 – ŠKODA is a pioneer in workplace ergonomics. The Czech car manufacturer is to present the focus of their comprehensive prevention program at the ‘Ergonomics Day’ on 10th June, 2013. The aim of these measures is to permanently optimize all working conditions and processes for the employees in production and administration. These commitments are part of the company’s comprehensive social benefits.


An important principle for all matters relating to workplace ergonomics is that prevention is better than a cure. That is why preventive measures are the cornerstone of ergonomic policy at ŠKODA AUTO. One particular focus of improving ergonomics is in vehicle production. This is all about achieving the most optimal, health conscious design of the entire logistics and manufacturing processes. Examples include positioning the hand correctly when using bolting tools as well as reducing the burden on the back through correct body posture, how to work with overhead items and using the appropriate technical aids when lifting heavy loads. So, mounting tools for fastening the car wheels or doors are used as well as ergonomic seats for employees who swivel from vehicle to vehicle, enabling such work to be carried out seated. But the topic is obviously also concerned with simpler things such as the positioning of computer monitors and the optimal height of seats and tables in office workstations.


“Our employees’ health and safety in the workplace has the highest priority at ŠKODA”, explains ŠKODA Board member for HR, Bohdan Wojnar. He adds, “Our commitment to the design of ergonomic and healthy workplaces goes far beyond that of the legal requirements and is part of our overall social policy. We focus on preventive measures as well as on targeted improvements in our team’s everyday working environment. This entire project is undertaken in close partnership with trade unions.”


To improve the working environment specifically, three years ago ŠKODA merged all the measures that had already been carried out in various departments into one central ergonomics project. “We joined forces to be able to purposefully and continually optimize the working environment”, says Wojnar.


In evaluating ergonomics, ŠKODA also relies on the latest scientific findings. Since mid-2012 there has been a company-owned, authorized laboratory for ergonomics and work physiology. The laboratory’s primary task is to assess the working environment in terms of both physical stress and specific work positions. For this purpose, the total workload is measured throughout the working period just as the load on certain areas of the body and muscle groups. Based on the data collected, measures to improve working conditions are developed and implemented. Speciallytrained experts evaluate new technologies with regard to the burden on the employee. They optimize workstations and working methods to avoid or reduce strain. Our ultimate goal is to create conditions where health issues do not arise at all.


Preventative health measures play an extremely important role. That is why the ergonomic and work physiology specialists at ŠKODA, for example, train employees in correct body postures, such as when lifting and in movements required at their workstations. In the practical part of their training, employees, along with occupational therapists, practice correct movements, learn how to use various tools correctly and incorporate stretching exercises. This can help employees both at work and in their everyday lives.
ŠKODA AUTO has also introduced voluntary preventive programs that have been included in the ‘ŠKODA Check-up’ since 2008. These support the employees in terms of healthy eating, weight loss, drug and alcohol abuse, as well as maintaining an altogether healthier lifestyle. An average of 13,000 employees go for a ŠKODA Check-up every year and, based on their results, receive advice or undergo rehabilitation wherever necessary. Outpatient rehabilitation clinics are available to all employees at each of the ŠKODA AUTO plants.


ŠKODA is particularly dedicated to older employees. “Older colleagues often have specific requirements with regard to their workstations and in terms of health”, says Wojnar, ŠKODA Board member for HR. That is why ŠKODA has dedicated a special ‘Seniority Program’ for these valued employees to promote good health. The program was developed working closely with the trade union KOVO. For this reason, ŠKODA was awarded ‘Most Senior-Friendly Company’ in the contest ‘The Most Responsible Company in the Czech Republic’ last year. Furthermore, the European Commission awarded the manufacturer second prize in the category ‘Employment for People of All Ages’. The award was presented by the EU Project ‘2012 - European Year of Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations'.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA Delivers 79,100 Cars in May

› 377,200 ŠKODA cars delivered between January and May, 2013
› ŠKODA gains market shares in all European sales regions
› ŠKODA model offensive continues with completely revised ŠKODA Superb and new ŠKODA Octavia RS
› Eight new or revised ŠKODA models in 2013

Mladá Boleslav, 13th June, 2013 – ŠKODA delivered 79,100 vehicles worldwide in May, 2013 – 2.9% down on May 2012. ŠKODA was able to gain shares of European markets in May. In the first five months of 2013 the Czech manufacturer achieved sales of 377,200 vehicles. The production start-up of the new Octavia and Octavia Combi as well as the revised Superb had a slightly dampening effect on sales. Additionally, the continuing overall weak situation in European markets had a negative impact on the results in May.

“The largest model offensive in ŠKODA’s corporate history has been launched successfully and will be implemented step by step”, explains ŠKODA CEO, Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. He continues, “We will be vigorously pursuing our growth strategy in the upcoming months even though the situation on the European markets in particular remains tough. Our customers are enthusiastic about the new models. We are confident that our sales figures will once again be in the plus in the second half of the year after the production launch of our new models.” In 2013 ŠKODA will be introducing a total of eight new or revised models, including the new Octavia Saloon, Combi, 4x4 and the sporty RS as well as the remodelled Superb, both as a saloon and combi.

In Western Europe, ŠKODA made 30,300 customer deliveries in May, which was a slight decrease of 2.3% on May, 2012. In the first five months of 2013 the Czech car manufacturer outperformed the Western European market generally and increased their market share to 3 %. In Germany, the market share grew to 4.4% in the first five months, making ŠKODA once again the strongest importer on the German market. The brand also made significant gains in their second strongest Western European market with sales of 5,300 vehicles in the UK in May – an increase of 12.4% on the same month in 2012. In May ŠKODA’s deliveries also
developed dynamically in Denmark (+82.4%) and in Finland (+36.3%).

ŠKODA delivered over 10,900 vehicles to Eastern Europe in May (Mai 2012: 12,100; -9.7%). ŠKODA’s market share grew to 4.2% in May. Once again, by far the strongest Eastern European market was Russia with more than 7,600 deliveries (May 2012: 8,500; -9.7%). With a total of 33,700 deliveries to Russian customers (January to May 2013, -7.4%), Russia reaffirmed its position as the ŠKODA’s third-largest market worldwide after China and Germany in the first five months of 2013.

In Central Europe, ŠKODA’s deliveries totalled 10,600 units in May – down slightly on last year’s figures (May 2012: 10,800; -1.9%). The market share grew to 18.7%. With 5,100 cars delivered in May, ŠKODA maintained the sales figures of last year in their Czech home market (May 2012: 5,200; -0.4%). Their market share grew to 34.5%.China was once again ŠKODA’s strongest individual market in May 21,000 customer deliveries (May 2012: also 21,000 deliveries; -0.3%). Between January and May the brand sold 99,100 vehicles in China, which is a slight decrease of 1.5% on the same period in 2012. ŠKODA wishes to increase sales in China in the coming months. The Czechs intend to place the new ŠKODA Rapid as well as the newly imported ŠKODA Yeti and ŠKODA Superb Combi alongside the existing model range in China.

ŠKODA’s deliveries to customers – May 2013 (in units, rounded to the nearest 100 and arranged according to model; +/- % compared to May 2012):

ŠKODA Octavia (29,300; -20.0%)
ŠKODA Fabia (18,900; -11.0%)
ŠKODA Superb (8,600; -8.7%)
ŠKODA Yeti (7,600; +0.1%)
ŠKODA Roomster (3,100; -1.9%)
ŠKODA Rapid (7,500; new model)
ŠKODA Citigo (sold only in Europe: 4,100; +143.2%)

[Karlheinz]

Production of the new ŠKODA Octavia begins in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia

› Start of manufacture of new ŠKODA Octavia for the Russian market

› Production in cooperation with Volkswagen Group Russia and GAZ Group

› ŠKODA aiming for growth in Russia – pillar of ŠKODA growth strategy

Mladá Boleslav, June 21st, 2013 – ŠKODA today launched production of the new ŠKODA Octavia at GAZ Group's factory in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia. The ŠKODA Octavia is by far the brand's bestselling car in Russia. This popular SKODA model's third generation is a class of its own, impressing with lots of space, high functionality, top-class safety, efficient engines and a timelessly elegant design.

​"We are aiming for strong growth in Russia in the years ahead, and the start of production of the new ŠKODA Octavia is a very important step in this direction,“ says ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. “Russia has become our third-most important sales market worldwide and our number two in Europe. The Octavia currently accounts for more than half of ŠKODA’s sales in Russia. In launching the third Octavia generation, we are aiming to extend the great success story this bestseller of ours has been writing and permanently boost our brand’s growth in Russia,” says Vahland.

Production in Nizhny Novgorod is in cooperation with Volkswagen Group Russia (VGR) and Russian automobile manufacturer GAZ. “Producing the new Octavia in country will provide important momentum for our brand in Russia and thus strengthen our corporate strategy,” says Michael Oeljeklaus, ŠKODA board member for production and logistics.

Production in Russia involves the entire vehicle manufacturing process including body production, painting and assembly. The new ŠKODA Octavia is the second ŠKODA model after the ŠKODA Yeti to run off the line in Nizhny Novgorod.

In preparation for the production of these two models, partners VGR, GAZ and ŠKODA invested a total of about 300 million euros in new plant and comprehensive modernisation work in Nizhny Novgorod. Also, a new training centre for local production staff was created at the plant in early 2012. “At the basis of the success of our cars in the markets is uniform quality worldwide. The training centre at GAZ ensures an end-to-end quality management at this location, too,” says Michael Oeljeklaus.

The ŠKODA Octavia is the brand’s bestselling car in Russia by far. “The Octavia is the heart of the brand,” says Vahland. In 2012, ŠKODA sold 52,000 Octavias to Russian customers, equivalent to almost 52 per cent of all of ŠKODA’s sales in Russia last year. In the first five months of 2013, the Octavia’s share of ŠKODA’s sales in Russia even rose to 56 per cent as about 18,800 customers opted for a ŠKODA Octavia from January through May.”

More than ever, the Octavia’s third generation sets standards in the compact segment, impressing with an unmatched space offering, a new design, high functionality, innovative safety and comfort systems, superior fuel economy, numerous “Simply Clever” ideas and a ŠKODA-typical price-value ratio.

ŠKODA is performing extremely well in Russia, setting a new sales record in 2012 at 99,100 units. This means the company is impressively building on its exceedingly successful showing in recent years: from 2005 to 2012, ŠKODA increased sales to Russian customers more than thirteenfold. In the first five months of 2013, ŠKODA sold 33,700 cars in Russia.

Under its 2018 growth strategy, Skoda aims to increase its worldwide sales to at least 1.5 million per year. To this end, the company has initiated the largest model offensive in its 118-year history. In this year alone, ŠKODA will launch eight new or revised models, among them four variants of the Octavia. By the end of 2015, ŠKODA aims to completely revamp its model range and expand it in important segments.

[Karlheinz]

German Design Council honours ŠKODA Octavia

› ŠKODA Bestseller places first in 2013 Automotive Brand Contest’s Exterior Volume Brand category
› Expert praise for new ŠKODA shape language

Mladá Boleslav, June 21st, 2013 – Renowned experts agreed the ŠKODA Octavia sets new standards in the compact segment as the saloon’s third generation took top awards in the Exterior Volume Brand category of the 2013 Automotive Brand Contest hosted by the German Design Council (Rat für Formgebung). This was the first time an independent jury at this international design competition presented the award in this category.

In awarding ŠKODA Octavia the top honour in the competition, the jury recognised the outstanding new design of this ŠKODA bestseller. ŠKODA design chief Jozef Kabaň and his team have restyled the car from head to toe. Never before has an Octavia stood so dynamic and simultaneously so timelessly elegant, so distinctive, so high in quality and so assured in appearance as the model’s third generation. Besides its new design, the Octavia impresses with an unmatched space offering, functionality, innovative safety and comfort systems, fuel efficiency, numerous Simply Clever ideas and ŠKODA-typical price/value ratio. “The ŠKODA Octavia is the heart of our brand and our bestselling model by far,” says ŠKODA CEO Winfried Vahland.

The Automotive Brand Contest’s jury’s verdict amounts to special praise for the designers in Mladá Boleslav as it assesses design across all brand products. “Our comprehensive approach is what makes the ‘Automotive Brand Contest’ so significant for the industry“, says Andrej Kupetz, general manager of the German Design Council, adding: “What we guarantee is a long-term and neutral assessment of branding in an international context.”

The German Design Council was founded in 1953 at the behest of the Bundestag, the lower house of Germany’s parliament. It is an independent and internationally active foundation for the advancement of design, recognising outstanding product and communications design in nine categories and four special categories. Award classes cover the entire design spectrum and range from vehicle designs and concepts via brand design and meshed multimedia all the way to campaigns and events. The Automotive Brand Contest highlights the elementary importance of brands and their design in the automobile industry. This year’s international jury at the contest comprised representatives of the media, design, brand communication and academia.

Entry to the 2013 Automotive Brand Contest was open to all companies in the automobile and supplier industries, design and brand agencies and import brands. The awards will be presented on September 10th during “Automotive Designers’ Night” at the International Automobile Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, Germany.

[Karlheinz]

Jiří Ježek Travels to Tour de France on Top Form

› Jiří Ježek on starting line in Tour de France time trials with ŠKODA’s support
› Successful final endurance test at Czech and Slovakian Championships: 17th place in time trials
› Victories at UCI World Cup race in Merano, Italy, and Segovia, Spain
› ŠKODA supporting the Tour de France for tenth time as main sponsor

Mladá Boleslav, 24th June, 2013 - Ahead of his ŠKODA sponsored entry into the Tour de France, the Czech Para-cyclist Jiří Ježek looks to be on top form. In his final endurance test before the Tour de France, Ježek achieved an outstanding 17th place in the time trials at last weekend’s Czech-Slovak Road Bike Championships, in which he measured himself against able-bodied racing cyclists. The 38-year-old also proved to be in excellent condition with two victories in the two most recent World Cup races as part of the UCI World Cup – Para-cycling Road in Merano, Italy, and Segovia, Spain. Thanks to these wins Ježek is in the lead of the “UCI Para-Cycling World Cup”.


The six-time Paralympic medallist and world champion will be setting his target time in the first time trials of this year’s Tour de France on 10th of July. As a longstanding partner of the Czech Paralympic Team and tour sponsor, ŠKODA will be supporting the event. The 15-year-old junior photographer, David Vlk will be there in the midst of the action to document Ježek’s individual effort. David lost his right leg below the knee as a consequence of illness, so he has the same handicap as Ježek. During therapy the cyclist’s career was a great motivation for David. Thanks to ŠKODA in this year’s Tour de France the lives of both men will link up and David will move a little closer to his dream of being a news and sports photographer.

“Jiří Ježek’s and David Vlk’s entries will be an emotional highlight of this year’s Tour de France,” says Werner Eichhorn, ŠKODA Board Member for Sales and Marketing. “We are very pleased, as a longstanding partner of the Tour, to be able to support the participation and fulfil the dreams of two extraordinary people.”

With his excellent ranking in the Czech-Slovak championships and victories at the UCI World Cup - Para-Cycling Road, the Czech has impressively demonstrated that he has been in good shape these last few days and weeks. Jiří Ježek is regarded as one of the best Para-athletes in the world. He has won six Paralympic Games, including a gold medal at the 2012 Games in London. He has also been voted ‘Disabled Sportsperson of the Year’ in the Czech Republic. Thanks to his great abilities, he is one of only a handful Paralympians who can compete without a Handicap.

“For me it’s a great honour and a dream come true. I really appreciate that as the best physically handicapped cyclist in the world I can show my ability during the time trial at the most famous professional cycle race in the world. I’m convinced it will be a great advert for handicapped sport, for me personally and the whole Czech Republic,” said Ježek. The bike racer knows the special symbolism of the hundredth Tour de France and ten years of sponsoring of the event by ŠKODA: “I couldn’t want any more. I’m really looking forward and want to enjoy this extraordinary opportunity. At the same time it’s a great sporting challenge, for which I’m going to be operating at 100%. I did very well in my last time trial. I’m convinced that on the Tour I can show my better sides,” said Ježek.

By supporting Ježek’s entry in the Tour de France, ŠKODA once again renews signs of its broad commitment to cycling sponsorship. This year will mark the manufacturer’s tenth year of being the main sponsor and official auto partner for the Tour de France – the most famous cycling race in the world. With a fleet of 250 vehicles and various events, the car manufacturer is really setting the pace at the 100th anniversary of the cycling classic. ŠKODA is also the partner for the ‘White Jersey’– the best cyclist under the age of 25. ŠKODA will also have a clear presence on the Internet and in social media. This year’s Tour de France takes place between 29th June and 21st July.

ŠKODA AUTO does not only support cycling internationally or at a professional level but they are also committed to, for example, the popular ‘Kolo pro život’ (‘Bike for Life’) series - the world’s largest amateur mountain bike series. In the last 13 years, a total of 160,000 riders have been involved in the races, of which 20,000 took part in 2012 alone. Furthermore, ŠKODA is the organizer of the popular Czech sports competition the ‘Virtual Cup’, where cycling enthusiasts compete on one of 16 tracks.

ŠKODA’s commitment to cycling reflects the special relationship that the Czech car producer has with the bicycle. The company’s success story all began with the production of bicycles at their headquarters in Mladá Boleslav. At the end of the 19th century, in December 1895, the bicycle mechanic Václav Laurin and bookkeeper Václav Klement established a factory there for the production of bicycles. In the first few years, the enthusiastic pioneers worked together to produce bicycles under the brand name of ‘Slavia’, from 1899, motorbikes and from 1905, finally, with the ‘Voiturette A’ – the company’s first automobile. L&K merged with ŠKODA in 1925.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA and Cycling: The Start of a Successful Brand

6/25/2013

ŠKODA’s success story started in 1895 with the production of bicycles. Václav Laurin und Václav Klement built Slavia brand bicycles until 1905. From bicycle producers to internationally successful car manufacturers.
Ten years of sponsoring the Tour de France and a number of other commitments in the world of cycling are the expression of a special relationship that ŠKODA has with two-wheel mobility. The history of the company began in December, 1985, with the production of bicycles: Václav Laurin and Václav Klement established a factory in Mladá Boleslav for the production of bicycles – some four years before they produced the first motorbike and ten years before their first automobile was launched on the market.

ŠKODA, as one of the oldest and longest-established car companies in the world, started their success story with the construction of bicycles. “In Mladá Boleslav at the end of the 19th century, Laurin und Klement, our founding fathers, were true pioneers in their field of mobility,” explains ŠKODA CEO, Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. He continues, “Their wonderful craftsmanship and energetic engineering spirit were the source of widespread inventions. From their passion for technology and constant search for improvements, dreams in mobility came true.  With the construction of bicycles and later of motorcycles and automobiles, they were pioneers of their time,” says Vahland.

Laurin and Klement were two mobility enthusiasts whose bicycle factory in Mladá Boleslav laid the foundation for a corporate history steeped in tradition. As they could not find a bicycle to meet their demands on quality, they decided to go it alone in 1895.  Initially bikes would be repaired and improved at their rented workshop but soon after they were constructing their own bicycles sold under the brand name ‘Slavia’.

Thanks to the business acumen of Václav Klement and the technical ingenuity of the skilled bicycle mechanic, Václav Laurin, the range progressively expanded. At the end of the 19th century a Laurin&Klement billboard advertised “The first domestic company to offer a two-year warrantee on account of its perfect products.” From 1899 L&K then produced motorbikes and finally, from 1905, the company began automobile production with their ‘Voiturette A’. L&K merged with ŠKODA in 1925.

“With their pioneering initiative in the field bicycle production, Laurin and Klement undoubtedly laid the cornerstone for the success of the ŠKODA brand,” explains ŠKODA CEO, Vahland. “Our sponsorship of the Tour de France and our involvement in cycling in general shows our close connection to those roots in a special way.”

Alongside ice hockey, cycling is also a very important pillar of the international ŠKODA sponsorship strategy, in which sponsoring the Tour de France and other cycling events play a central role. The car maker supports the Czech ‘Bike for Life’ events, the‘Virtual Cup’ competition and Berlin’s ‘Velothon’. Bikes still form a part of the ŠKODA model range, as they always have: 2013 saw the launch of the eleventh collection of ten bicycles for both adults and children as well as a wide range of ŠKODA bike wear and accessories.

What began almost 118 years ago with the production of bicycles by Laurin&Klement has emerged as one of today’s most successful automobile brands with seven model ranges and a presence in over 100 countries worldwide. Within the next few years, as part of the 2018 growth strategy, the manufacturer intends to expand and increase sales to at least 1.5 million cars per year by 2018.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA 10th Time as Main Sponsor of Tour de France

6/25/2013

​ŠKODA has supported the cycling classic since 2004. 250 ŠKODAs serve as the Tour fleet with many new Octavia Combis. Renowned ŠKODA Superb to lead the Tour entourage. Everything began in 1895 with the Czech manufacturer’s production of bicycles. 100th anniversary of the Tour de France from the 29th June to 21st July, 2013.

ŠKODA will be supporting the Tour de France – the most famous bicycle race in the world as the main sponsor and official auto partner for the tenth time.  With a fleet of 250 ŠKODA vehicles and a broad range of promotions, the Czech car producer will be ever present at the 100th anniversary of the cycling classic. This year’s Tour takes placefrom the 29th June to 21st July.

“Our longstanding partnership with the world's number one cycling event underlines ŠKODA’s close relationship with cycling,” says ŠKODA CEO, Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. “The fact that ŠKODA has been sponsoring the Tour de France for ten years, and that we can also celebrate this 100th anniversary is really something very special. Supporting the Tour de France and other cycling events is also an expression of our company’s tradition spanning the past 118 years. The company’s success story began in December 1895 with the production of bicycles by our founding fathers, Laurin und Klement,” Vahland explains.

This year’s Tour de France starts on the 29th of June – for the first time on the island ofCorsica with 3 stages taking place there.  After a total of 21 stages and 3,360 kilometres, the cyclists will reach the finish line in Champs-Elysées, Paris on the 21st of July.  As in previous years, ŠKODA will be the partner for the ‘White Jersey’– the best rider under the age of 25.

For this year’s Tour de France, ŠKODA will be providing the Tour organiser and other partners with a total of 250 vehicles. The new ŠKODA Octavia Combi andŠKODA Superb will be serving primarily as accompanying vehicles. These include two of the all new Superb, which will be celebrating its debut on the European markets at the end of June.  The new Superbs in red will serve as the vehicle for the Tour director, Christian Prudhomme. Many ŠKODA cars will be travelling with the so-called publicity caravan ‘Caravane Publicitaire’, which will be putting on a fantastic display for spectators one or two hours before the entourage. The Rapid, Yeti and Citigo will all be a part of this year’s ŠKODA Tour de France fleet.

Providing transport has always played a major role in any sponsorship arrangement. Year on year over 200 ŠKODA models travel around 2.8 million kilometres during the Tour. The total distance travelled in the past nine years is almost 25 million kilometres. But the ŠKODA fleet really comes into its own here in terms of reliability: Not one single vehicle has ever broken down due to technical problems.

The Tour de France is one of the world's biggest sporting events - surpassed only by the football World Cup and the Olympics. There were around 12 million cycling enthusiasts cheering along the main route alone in 2012, joined by approximately 1.7 billion TV viewers throughout the world. “Cycling is a highly dynamic sport that attracts millions of people worldwide,” says Werner Eichhorn, ŠKODA Board Member for Sales and Marketing. “It fits perfectly with the ŠKODA brand.”

Part of ŠKODA’s sponsorship of the Tour de France is an extensive communication campaign. This can be seen in a specially developed film, dynamically sequencing the manufacturer’s involvement in ‘Le Tour’. Its message: As“the team behind the teams”, ŠKODA is providing the support in every way necessary for a successful Tour de France.  Any one of various motives throughout the emotive series of ads supports this message: The team behind the teams.

There will also be a broad presence on the Internet and in social media. TwoInternet sites will present ŠKODA’s involvement in the cycling: www.skoda-cycling.com andwww.skoda-radsport.de. You can also visit our Facebook page: facebook.com/skoda-cycling.

Alongside ice hockey, cycling is also a very important pillar of the international ŠKODA sponsorship strategy, in which sponsoring the Tour de France and other cycling events play a central role. The car maker supports the Czech ‘Bike for Life’ events, the ‘Virtual Cup’ competition and Berlin’s ‘Velothon’.

Having such a close connection to cycling is demonstrated through ŠKODA’s traditional sponsorship. Just as bicycles and all the accessories that go with them have been a part of the car manufacture’s extended product range for years. With ten models, the2013 ŠKODA bike collection is better than ever before. Kids’ and junior bikes as well as high-tech racing bikes and mountain bikes are now available from ŠKODA Genuine Accessories. The extremely popular category of 29-inch bikes is now available for the first time in this year’s collection. The brand also offers a fantastic range of bike wear for adults and children as well as other cycling accessories such as ŠKODA designed helmets, gloves, drinks bottles and sunglasses.