ENG: Škoda Official Site News & Press Release

[Karlheinz]

Economy Run: ŠKODA Fabia with only 2.6 l/100 km

› Fuel-saving champions: Marek Tribula and Martin Kadlec take the 2013 victory in a ŠKODA Fabia in the 32nd ŠKODA Economy Run
› Lowest emissions: Winner with CO2-emissions of only 60,58 g/km
› International race: 65 European teams, 309 km route

Mladá Boleslav, 22 September 2013 – a ŠKODA Fabia is the winning car in the 32nd ŠKODA Economy Run. With only 2.6 l/100 km, the driving duo Marek Tribula and Martin Kadlec in a ŠKODA Fabia achieved the lowest average consumption of all participants in the traditional fuel-saving competition. This consumption corresponds to CO2-emissions of only 60,58 g/km.

“The ŠKODA Economy Run has once again proved how efficient and environmentally friendly ŠKODAs really are,” says Roman Havlásek, competition director and customer service manager at ŠKODA AUTO. “Congratulations to the winners, Marek Tribula and Martin Kadlec on this great result of only 2.6 l/100 km. For many years, the results achieved in the Economy Run have been a reflection of the high efficiency of our model range.”

ŠKODA is the official partner of the ŠKODA Economy Run and only ŠKODA brand vehicles take part. The start and finishing line for the 291 km route was in Kosmonosy near the company headquarters in Mladá Boleslav. The participants headed for the ŠKODA AUTO plant in Kvasiny as a mid-point.
A total of 65 teams from the Czech Republic, Poland, Russia and Slovakia took part. ŠKODA AUTO provided customer service for the technical process and the preparation and inspection of participants’ cars. The required services were provided at the ŠKODA Service Training Centre in Kosmonosy.

The Economy Run 2013 was evaluated in a total of 5 classes, depending on engine capacity and fuel type. Once again there were ‚historic‘ or ‚handy alongside the ‘Media’ - a special category for participating journalists. The evaluations for the Economy Run are based on the lowest CO2-emissions from the overall consumption of the vehicle. Additionally, the average speed recorded and the difference between the standard consumption and actual consumption are evaluated. When the consumption is the same and with identical CO2-emissions, the higher average speed or larger engine capacity becomes the deciding factor.
These excellent results from the ŠKODA Economy Run are further evidence of the high-efficiency of the ŠKODA model range. The car producer is working under great pressure to further reduce the fuel consumption and CO2-emissions of their cars. This is what the ŠKODA GreenLine models in particular stand for. With the exception of the ŠKODA Citigo, which is available as an economical natural gas version, ŠKODA offers a Greenlineversion for each of their models – with the Start-Stop System, brake energy regeneration, tyres with reduced rolling resistance and special aerodynamic and weight-technical optimizations. For the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the Czechs are presenting the environmentally-friendly Greenline version of the new ŠKODA Octavia with a diesel engine consuming 3.3l/100km and CO2-emissions of only 87g/km.

In August 2013, the fuel-saving champion Gerhard Plattner undertook a special record drive in the Citigo CNG: He drove from Italy to Stockholm with an average fuel consumption of 2.39 kg natural gas/100 km and CO2-emssions of 65 g /km. He managed the entire 2,619 km journey on only 81.25 euros worth of fuel.
The results from the ŠKODA Economy Run 2013 can be found in full at www.economyrun.cz (Czech only)

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA is the largest manufacturing company in Central Europe

› ŠKODA AUTO is the third-time number one out of all manufacturing companies in the Deloitte CE Top 500
› The car producer ranked third highest across all sectors
› Comparison of the 500 highest-revenue companies across 18 Central-European countries

Mladá Boleslav, 25 September 2013 – ŠKODA AUTO is the largest manufacturing company in Central Europe for the third time in a row. These are the results from the Deloitte CE Top 500 report. The study carried out by the auditing firm Deloitte is the largest study of its kind on the Central European economy. ŠKODA comes in at third place among all companies in the total rankings for the third time in a row. This current ranking is based on the company’s sales figures from 2012.

​Among the current top 500 include a total of 84 Czech companies. ŠKODA’s top position as the largest manufacturing company in Central Europe and the third largest company in the region reflects the traditional car manufacturer’s outstanding development: “ŠKODA is an important part of the Czech economy and has become an internationally recognized volume manufacturer,” explains ŠKODA Board Member for HR Bohdan Wojnar. Step by step, ŠKODA are strengthening their position as a high-volume manufacturer and are significantly increasing sales and deliveries.

This is the seventh time that Deloitte have published the Top-500 list for Central Europe. Companies from a total of 18 countries were included in the study. According to this data, ŠKODA are right at the forefront: In 2012, the car manufacturer reported a turnover of 10.4 billion euros, making the Czech carmaker by far the highest-revenue manufacturing company in Central Europe. Delivering 939,200 vehicles, up 6.8% over 2011, the Czech manufacturer achieved a new sales record last year. Their operating profit was 712 million euros.

ŠKODA are set to grow in the years ahead:  The aim of the 2018 growth strategy is to increase sales worldwide to at least 1.5 million per year. This was why ŠKODA launched the most comprehensive model campaign in their corporate history. In 2013 alone, the brand is bringing out eight new or completely revised models.

At the just finished Frankfurt Motor Show, the Czechs have presented two world premieres – the new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback and the completely revised ŠKODA Yeti. The young compact Rapid Spaceback marks their entry into the strongest vehicle class in Europe – the compact hatch segment. There are now two versions of the compact SUV; the elegant and stylish ŠKODA Yeti for the city and the adventurous ŠKODA Yeti Outdoor.

As part of their growth plans, ŠKODA is set to expand in the international emerging markets of China, India, Russia and Europe. The company is investing heavily in the Czech home market to develop their market position in Europe. In 2012 alone, the company’s fixed asset investments increased by around 45% to a record 832 million euros; the vast majority of which was allotted to investments in the Czech Republic.

The main production plant in Mladá Boleslav has been extensively modernized and expanded to accommodate the production of the ŠKODA Rapid/Rapid Spaceback and the new ŠKODA Octavia. The Technology and Development Centre in Česana, which is near the headquarters in Mladá Boleslav, is currently being extended.  Around 34 million euros have been invested in the construction of a new Powertrain Centre alone; this is one of the largest investments in development in the Czech Republic to date. ŠKODA is the only automobile manufacturer that produces and develops in the Czech Republic.

The importance of ŠKODA for the Czech economy is reflected in the numerous awards they have received; this year, the manufacturer won the ‘Czech Top 100’ competition for the 16th time. The victory in the individual category of ‘most admired company’ also went to ŠKODA. At the end of 2012, the company was awarded ‘Investor of the past two decades’ in the Czech Republic.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODAs are the real grafters!

› Superb, Octavia and Yeti with power and flexibility for everyday life
› 5% higher towing capacity: new ŠKODA Yeti model tows up to 2.1 tonnes
› Awards: New ŠKODA Superb Combi 4x4 model voted ‘Tow Car of the Year’ in UK – out of 46 other hopefuls
› Double victory: ŠKODA Octavia wins 2 categories in the British awards

Mladá Boleslav, 3 October 2013 – ŠKODAs are spacious, practical and extremely versatile. Another key feature, which is much appreciated by customers, is the larger models’ towpower. ŠKODAs have been receiving top points in towing capacity since time immemorial. The Czech car producer’s renewed and expanded range shows this more than ever. And even the experts are convinced – as proven in the latest awards from the UK’s Caravan Club for the ŠKODA Superb and Octavia.

“Fresh design, innovative technologies, lots of space, highest functionality and great value for money characterize our cars. High towing capacity is essential for a practical car. Our range offers a great number of powerful vehicles for anyone who regularly tows a caravan or trailer,” explains Dr. Frank Welsch, ŠKODA Board Member for Technical Development and Design. “Our model range is more attractive and versatile than ever before.”

The best example is the all new ŠKODA Yeti: After the recent revisions, the popular compact SUV is not only smarter and more versatile than ever, but also boasts a further increase in towpower. The new Yeti can tow up to 2.1 tonnes – equating to 5% more strength than before. Whether it be a caravan, horsebox or boat – it is not an issue for the new Yeti. ŠKODA’s popular compact SUV celebrated its premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show a few weeks ago. The European sales launch is set for the end of 2013.

ŠKODA models’ excellent towing abilities are regularly confirmed by experts. The latest evidence for this came in the form of 5 awards for the all new ŠKODA Superb and new ŠKODA Octavia that had been entered into the UK’s ‘2014 Caravan Club Tow Car of the Year’ competition. The ŠKODA Superb Combi 4x4 was voted ‘Tow Car of the Year’. In addition to the victory in the overall standings, the Superb Combi 4x4 won in a further two categories. With a towing capacity of up to 2 tonnes, the Superb and Superb Combi belong to the most powerful in the upper mid-class.

The new ŠKODA Octavia was also one of the winners of this year’s ‘Tow Car of the Year’. An Octavia 2.0 TDI/150 hp won the <1,424 kg weight class. The Octavia 1.2 TSI/105 hp is also the number one tow car in the £16,000 to 20,000 price range. The Jury was impressed by the1.2-litre engine’s towing power: “For such a little engine, the Octavia breezed around the hill route.” The new ŠKODA Octavia celebrated its sales premiere in early 2013.

[Karlheinz]

Art Award for understanding between the German and Czech nations presented to ŠKODA AUTO CEO

› Jury acknowledges Prof. Dr. h. c. Winfried Vahland’s personal contribution to economic cooperation between Czech Republic and Germany
› Prestigious award given to individuals from both countries since 1994
› Ceremony on 9 October in Prague with high-ranking representatives from politics and business
› Honouring the importance of ŠKODA AUTO for the Czech and Central European economy

Mladá Boleslav/Prague, 10 October 2013 – Prestigious award for ŠKODA AUTO CEO: Prof. Dr. h. c. Winfried Vahland receives this year’s Art Award for understanding between the German and Czech nations. This renowned award honours Vahland’s contribution to economic cooperation between Germany and the Czech Republic. The award ceremony took place yesterday in the presence of high-ranking personalities from business and politics of both countries at the Wallenstein Palace in Prague.
“I feel very honoured to receive the Art Award,” says Vahland in his acceptance speech. “I also take this honour as an award for my ŠKODA colleagues across the whole world. Without our employees, ŠKODA’s success would not have been possible.” Vahland has been the CEO of the Czech car maker since September 2010. Between 2002 and 2005, he served as ŠKODA AUTO member of the board responsible for Commercial Affairs, including two years as Vice Chairman.

The Art Award, bestowed since 1994 for understanding between the German and Czech nations is presented jointly by the Munich Adalbert Stifter Association, the Union for Good Partnership of Czech and German Speaking Countries, the Brücke-Most-Foundation, the Collegium Bohemicum, the Prague House of Literature of German-speaking Authors, and the International Art Association pro arte vivendi. German and Czech individuals who are committed to improving the cooperation between the two countries are honoured. Besides Vahland, Rudolf Jindrák, the Czech Ambassador to Germany will also be honoured in this year’s ceremony. Previous dignitaries include well-known figures, such as the 2011 late Czech politician Jiří Dienstbier and the German former Federal President Richard von Weizsäcker. For this pure Art Award, two artists of Czech and German roots have each donated one of their own works to each of the award winners from the other country.

Vahland emphasizes the importance of a united Europe for the peaceful coalescence between East and West and positive economic development: “Europe creates peace and prosperity. For us, as part of the Volkswagen Group, and for me at ŠKODA AUTO, that is a commitment and an admonition to advance the fortunes of ŠKODA with greatresponsibility,” he adds. “ŠKODA’s success reveals that Germans and Czechs are able to
create something quite special. And I must also add that we have become friends as
well.”

The Czech carmaker plans to grow further in the coming years. By 2018, ŠKODA intends
to increase worldwide sales to at least 1.5 million vehicles per year. The company’s most
comprehensive model campaign in corporate history is at the heart of the 2018 growth
strategy. In this year alone, the Czechs will be presenting eight new or revised models.
In addition to developing international growth markets, ŠKODA continues to expand their
position in Europe and in the Czech home market. For this purpose, the manufacturer is
investing heavily in their Czech sites. In 2012 alone, the company’s capital investments
increased by around 46% percent to a new high of EUR 832 million, much of it on
measures in the Czech Republic.
Currently one of the largest investments in development in the Czech Republic is the
construction of a new powertrain centre – around EUR 34 million will be spent on this
measure alone. ŠKODA is the only car manufacturer that both produces and develops in
the Czech Republic. The headquarters in Mladá Boleslav have been extensively expanded
and modernized for the production of the ŠKODA Rapid / Rapid Spaceback and the new
ŠKODA Octavia. The ŠKODA Vrchlabí plant has been rebuilt in collaboration with the
Volkswagen Group into a new Czech high-tech centre, where modern DSG-direct shift
gearboxes are produced both for ŠKODA and other VW Group brands.
The number of awards received demonstrates the company’s outstanding importance for
the Czech and Central European economies. The ‘Deloitte CEE TOP 500’ currently ranks
ŠKODA as the largest production company in Central and Eastern Europe. The
manufacturer has won the ‘Czech Top 100’ for the 16th time. The award ‘Investor of the
past two decades’ from the Czech Ministry of Trade and Industry is recognition of
ŠKODA’s high levels of investment. Since 1991, approximately EUR 7 billion have been
invested in restructuring the company. ŠKODA’s most recent award is the Czech ‘Rhodos’
Image Award– bestowing the carmaker the title of Best Image in the non-food-product
category.

ŠKODA AUTO employs around 26,400 people worldwide, including 25,000 people in the
Czech Republic. Over the past two years, the company has created around 2,000 new
jobs.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA on the rise in September

› ŠKODA global deliveries to customers up by 3.3% to 86,000 cars in September 2013; January to September – 684,900 vehicles
› Strong growth in Europe – up 9.4% ; ŠKODA’s market share increases
› Deliveries to customers in Czech Republic up by 20.1%
› New ŠKODA range very well received – New Octavia deliveries up by 26% in Western Europe
› New Rapid Spaceback and all new Yeti are ready for launch

Mladá Boleslav, 10 October 2013 – ŠKODA has grown worldwide in September 2013. The brand delivered 86,600 vehicles to customers, which is an increase of 3.3% over the same month last year (83,900 units). In Europe, ŠKODA grew by 9.4% and further increased their market share. In their Czech home market, deliveries to customers rose by 20.1% to 5,600 units.

Between January and September, ŠKODA sold 684,900 vehicles worldwide (January to September 2012: 717,200; -4.5%). Deliveries to customers so far this year have been affected by changes in production due to the comprehensive model renewal. Also, the Czech automaker could not fully escape the sometimes weak market environment. ŠKODA’s current incoming orders are developing very positively.
“The success of this September shows that our model campaign is paying off,” says Werner Eichhorn, ŠKODA Board Member for Sales and Marketing. “After the production launches in the first half of the year, we are definitely reaping the rewards of the model campaign. The brand’s development has been particularly strong in Europe with growth of 9.4%. It is clear that our new and revised models are now increasingly available,” he adds. Deliveries to customers of the new Octavia increased by 26% in Western Europe. The brand’s market share in Europe had grown to 3.9% by the end of September.

The manufacturer will be placing yet more emphasis on their ongoing model campaign in the next few weeks, with the new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback and all new ŠKODA Yeti. The new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback – the brand’s first compact hatchback – is soon to be launched onto the European markets. Pre-orders can now be placed in some markets for the revised ŠKODA Yeti, which will be celebrating its sales premiere in early 2014. The new Yeti will be available in two versions – ŠKODA Yeti and ŠKODA Yeti Outdoor.
In Western Europe, ŠKODA grew significantly in September and once again outperformed the overall market. 37,800 customer deliveries represents an increase of 12.1% over the previous September (33,700). After the first nine months, the brand’s Western European market share grew to 3.1%. In Germany, ŠKODA’s second strongest market worldwide, the automaker strengthened their position as by far the strongest import brand, with total of 13,600 ŠKODA cars going to German customers (September 2012: 13,700). The Czechs also recorded strong growth in the UK, where September deliveries rose by an impressive 39.2% to 10,100 vehicles. ŠKODA grew by double-figures in Spain (900 cars; up 60.6%), in Sweden (1,100 cars; up 51.6%), in Italy (1,000 cars; up 36.9%), in Switzerland (1,700 cars; up 25.0%), in Finland (800 cars; up 24.0%), in the Netherlands (1,200 cars; up 16.1%) und in Norway (700 cars; up 14.6%). In France ŠKODA deliveries to customers increased by 8.6% to 1,900 cars.

In Eastern Europe, ŠKODA achieved 10,900 cars delivered to customers in September (September 2012: 11,700; -6.5%), with a market share of 3.9% in the first nine months. In Kazakhstan, the brand grew by 132.3% to nearly 500 vehicles in September. In the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania) 500 cars were delivered to customers which is 34.6% more than September 2012. In Serbia, ŠKODA grew by 36.1% to 300 vehicles delivered. In ŠKODA’s third largest market Russia, the manufacturer delivered to customers 7,700 cars (September 2012: 8,800; -12.0%).

In September, ŠKODA did very well in Central Europe. 11,100 cars sold represents an increase of 19.4% over September 2012 (9,300 sales). Thus, the car maker grew significantly stronger than the overall market and increased their Central European market share to 21.9% in September. ŠKODA deliveries to customers increased by a fifth (+ 20.1%) in their Czech home market. 5,600 cars were delivered to Czech customers, representing an increase of around 1,000 more cars sold than in September 2012 (4,600). Cumulatively over the first nine months, the share of the Czech market lies at 35.6%.

In September, ŠKODA’s strongest market was China once again. ŠKODA delivered to customers a total of 21,400 cars on the Chinese market (September 2012: 22,500 cars; -4.9%). A number of the new models have not yet been introduced here. Between January and September, the Czechs delivered 177,700 cars to Chinese customers (January to September 2012: 181,900; -2.3%).

ŠKODA customer sales – September 2013 (in units, rounded to the nearest 100 and arranged according to model; +/- % compared to September 2012):

ŠKODA Octavia (35,100; -1.9 %)
ŠKODA Fabia (18,300; -3.3 %)
ŠKODA Superb (7,900; -26.4 %)
ŠKODA Yeti (7,900; -6.8 %)
ŠKODA Roomster (2,900; -17.1 %)
ŠKODA Rapid (10,500; +>500 %).
ŠKODA Citigo (only sold in Europe: 4,000; -18.0 %)

[Karlheinz]

The Power of ŠKODA - ŠKODA model range more attractive than ever

› Brand new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback fresh on the market
› Environmentally friendly ŠKODA Rapid, Rapid Spaceback and ŠKODA Octavia now available as GreenLine versions
› Special model ŠKODA Octavia RS Challenge
› All new ŠKODA Yeti already available to order
› Fantastic new product features for current models
› Power of ŠKODA – the new ŠKODA range

Mladá Boleslav, 21 October 2013 – With completely new and redesigned models, fantastic special editions and additional features for the current model range, ŠKODA is really picking up the pace before the end of 2013. The new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback is currently being launched onto the markets and orders are being placed for the revised Yeti, which will be celebrating its sales premiere at the start of 2014. Additionally, the Citigo, Fabia, Roomster, Rapid und Octavia now feature a whole host of innovations.
2013 is ŠKODA’s year for new models, having brought out eight new or revised models this year alone. Moreover, the Czechs have once again upgraded their current range as part of their regular model improvements. Two years into the 2018 growth strategy, the ŠKODA model range is more attractive and varied than ever before. The company looks to be ideally placed to achieve their target of selling at least 1.5 million vehicles worldwide every year.

The new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback has been on the market since early October, becoming the Czech brand’s first compact hatchback ever launched. The young compact, for which four petrol and two diesels are available, boasts the best ŠKODA qualities and a fresh design. As of November 2013, the Rapid Spaceback can come with the newly available 1.6 TDI entry-level diesel with 66 kW or the particularly fuel-efficient GreenLine version. The CO2 emissions of the Rapid Spaceback GreenLine amount to only 99 g/km, and consumption lies at 3.8 l/100 km. The ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback Green Line features the Start-Stop system, brake energy regeneration and low rolling resistance tyres. Further savings are achieved by a special front grille trim, concealed air intakes, wheel covers and the optional rear spoiler that specifically optimize the aerodynamic drag of the vehicle even further.

With the introduction of the new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback, the ŠKODA Rapid has also received a whole host of innovations. As of today, the Rapid now features new electro-mechanical power steering, the so-called C-EPS (Column-Electric Power Steering). The advantages to this are better steering response, reduced weight and less space required. In addition, ŠKODA has freshened up the interior of the Rapid, adding a new three-spoke steering wheel in five different versions. The ‘Ambition’ and ‘Elegance’ equipment set-ups now feature new trim in four designs and new seat covers. The ‘Swing’ radio has now got a new panel, the ‘Blues’ radio with chrome control buttons. Just as the ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback, the Rapid is now available as the particularly fuel-efficient GreenLine Version. In combination with the 1.6 TDI/66 kW, the ŠKODA Rapid GreenLine produces CO2-emissions of 99 g/km and consumes 3.8 l/100 km.

The new ŠKODA Octavia proves that sporty can also be eco-friendly. Four versions of the model are now available as of this year – from the Octavia to the racy Octavia RS. The special edition ŠKODA Octavia RS Challenge, offering both sporty features and class, will be available from November. Fantastic exterior features underline this sporty look: The ‘black package’ available for the Octavia RS includes the black finish to the side mirrors and grille; the Combi’s roof rack is also in black. This sporty look is emphasised through the black 18-inch ‘Gemini’ alloy wheels. The Performance Mode Selection is series standard on-board the Octavia RS Challenge, through which the driver can adjust certain handling characteristics of the vehicle with the touch of a button. Comfort is maximized by the multifunction steering wheel with audio and phone control buttons. There is also a leather package for the steering wheel, gear stick and handbrake - the leather is embroidered with red stitching. The colourful Maxi-DOT Display now features a digital lap timer. A special feature is the Challenge-badge in the door sill.

From November, the environmentally friendly GreenLine version will be available for the new ŠKODA Octavia. The ŠKODA Octavia GreenLine, recently shown for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor show, is powered by a 1.6 TDI diesel with an output of 81 kW. The car emits only 87 g CO2/km with an average fuel consumption of only 3.3 l/100 km.

Orders are now being placed for the all new ŠKODA Yeti. The Yeti has been on the market in Germany and Belgium since late 2013 and will be available on the rest of the European markets in early 2014. The Yeti is available for the first time in two versions – the stylish ŠKODA Yeti for the city and the adventurous Yeti Outdoor. Both Yeti versions feature a completely new front and rear, new alloy wheels, fresh interior, new Simply Clever solutions, expanded engine/transmission combinations, the highest functionality and new technical features. The revised ŠKODA Yeti is again also available as the environmentally-friendly GreenLine Version. The ŠKODA Yeti 1.6 TDI/77kW GreenLine runs on only 4.6 l/100 km, and CO2 emissions at 119 g/km. The top-of-the-range version of the all new ŠKODA SUV is the Yeti L&K, boasting, amongst other features, exclusive leather trim, two-tone 17-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights and high-quality media system.

The ŠKODA Citigo has received some fresh interior features: The popular city car will be available from November with exclusive three-spoke steering wheels, either in PUR or leather. Another innovation is the ‘Funky’ radio, which now comes with DAB-Function (Digital Audio Broadcasting), which enables you to receive digitally transmitted radio stations. The ŠKODA Citigo was launched in late 2011 as the Czech car manufacturer’s first small car, available as a three or five-door. A natural gas version as well as the SPORT special edition are also on the market. The Citigo has been exceptionally well received by customers with a total of around 66,100 (as of 30 September 2013) sold since its launch.

[Karlheinz]

ŠKODA AUTO: 7.4 billion euro sales revenue in the first nine months of 2013

› The most comprehensive model campaign in corporate history – introducing eight new or revised ŠKODA models in 2013
› ŠKODA delivered 685,000 vehicles between January and September 2013
› Nine-month sales revenue well over seven billion euros
› Sound result: operations after third quarter at 371 million euros
› Operating profit increases by 8.8% in third quarter

​Mladá Boleslav, 31 October 2013 – The Czech car manufacturer ŠKODA achieved a sales revenue of 7.4 billion euros in the first nine months of the current fiscal year 2013. In a period of high investment, ŠKODA’s operating profit reached 371 million euros in the first nine months; during the third quarter alone, operating profit increased by 8.8% over the same period last year. By the end of September, ŠKODA had delivered 685,000 vehicles to customers. Most recently, ŠKODA’s sales rose on a monthly basis by 3.3% – which was also a new ŠKODA record for the month of September.

​“With eight new or completely revised models, 2013 is ŠKODA’s year dedicated to the biggest model offensive in corporate history,” says ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. “We have all but replaced or completely revised the ŠKODA model range. Never has our range been as extensive or attractive as today. We are therefore very pleased about the particularly positive feedback we’ve had from the markets.”

During this phase, the sales and turnover had been influenced by difficult market situation in Europe, as well as by production start-ups and subsequently lower production volumes. After the successful production launches, deliveries to customers rose once again by 3.3% over the same period last year to 86,600 ŠKODA vehicles. Overall, ŠKODA is expecting more sales in the second half of the year than in the same period last year. This positive development was also reflected in the third quarter of 2013 in ŠKODA’s operating profit, which amounted to 128 million euros – up 8.8% over the same quarter last year.

The Czech car manufacturer’s sales revenues had reached 7.37 billion euros by the end of September. This is 6.4% less than the same period in 2012 with 7.87 billion euros. The operating profit was 371 million euros, 34.6% lower than the first nine months of last year with 567 million euros. The company’s investments amounted to 458 million euros, which was 12.8% lower than January to September 2012 with 525 million euros. “ŠKODA was able to maintain its operating profit with return on sales revenue by 5 per cent on a solid level in the first three quarters, despite difficult conditions generally and in a period of high investment,” says ŠKODA CFO Winfried Krause. “Thanks to strict cost management, we continue to enjoy a stable financial base for the future,” he adds.

[Karlheinz]

‘Flying Finn’ wins again for ŠKODA in ERC final in Switzerland

› ŠKODA duo Lappi/Ferm triumph with a comfortable lead
› “My first big victory on asphalt”
› Perfect end to a year full of title wins for ŠKODA

Matigny, Switzerland, 9 November 2013 – The ‘flying Finn’ Esapekka Lappi has triumphed once again for ŠKODA in the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC) final in the Swiss Alps. Together with his co-driver Janne Ferm, the exceptionally talented driver scored a confident win with a substantial lead in the Rallye International du Valais, just six days after winning in China. It was the perfect finishing touch to a highly successful rally year for ŠKODA, the highlights of which were title wins in the ERC and the Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC).*

​Having a winning driver in a winning Fabia S2000 was also the key to success for Esapekka Lappi in Switzerland. It took him 40 hours to travel to Switzerland after his success in the APRC final in China, but the ‘flying Finn’ showed absolutely no signs of exhaustion. “The past two weeks have been absolutely fantastic. This is my first big victory on asphalt, and I never expected this before the rally started. But I was in the flow and my rhythm was great. I’d like to say a big ‘thank you’ to the fantastic ŠKODA Motorsport team,” said Lappi after his first win in an important asphalt rally.

The 22-year-old set out simply to gain some experience on asphalt – a surface that he is less familiar with – but in the end, he scored a commanding win in the 287.84-kilometre rally. The Valais record holder Olivier Burri (CH) finished in second place, 3m 28.2s behind Lappi. With the tracks proving to be slippery due to rain, Lappi was actually playing it safe on the final day of the event in the breathtaking mountains around the rally headquarters in Matigny – but achieved another two fastest times in the special stages nonetheless.

In the end, he was able to celebrate his second rally win in the ERC, following on from Poland last year, out of a total of just four starts so far in this championship for ŠKODA Motorsport. Lappi also has a second place under his belt this year, in the legendary Rallye Sanremo. ŠKODA was the dominant force in this year’s European Rally Championship: Competing on eight occasions, Kopecký and Dresler won an impressive six times and made it onto the podium on both of the other occasions too. And their reward is the ERC title.*

There were also continental championship titles for the Czech automobile manufacturer, with Gaurav Gill of India winning the APRC and Gustavo Saba of Paraguay being crowned champion in South America’s CODASUR event.* In addition, ŠKODA produced national champions with Raimund Baumschlager in Austria, Umberto Scandola in Italy, Dimitar Iliev in Bulgaria, Marouf Abu Samra in Jordan and Saba in Paraguay.

* Subject to official confirmation by the FIA

[Karlheinz]

Successful production launch of the ŠKODA Yeti

› Extensively revised ŠKODA Yeti rolls off the production lines at the Kvasiny plant
› Two Yetis from one: ŠKODA Yeti and ŠKODA Yeti Outdoor
› New distinctive design, fresh interior, innovative technology features
› Orders being taken for the revised ŠKODA Yeti – Market launch in January 2014
› 288,700 ŠKODA Yetis sold worldwide to date

Mladá Boleslav, 11 November 2013 – The extensively revised ŠKODA Yeti is now rolling off the production lines at the ŠKODA AUTO Kvasiny plant. The popular compact SUV is now available in two variations – the elegantly-stylish ŠKODA Yeti for the city, and the adventurous ŠKODA Yeti Outdoor. Both variations feature new designs, fresh interiors and innovative technical features. For the first time on board a ŠKODA, the Yeti has a rear-view camera. The market launch is to take place in January 2014 with pre-orders being taken since October.

With the production launch of the ŠKODA Yeti, ŠKODA has implemented the next start of production of the current year after the Octavia, Superb and Rapid Spaceback. “2013 is ŠKODA’s year of new models,” says ŠKODA Board Member for Production Michael Oeljeklaus. “The successful start of production for the Yeti is the result of another outstanding team performance.” The ŠKODA Yeti is being produced at the Kvasiny plant, where approximately 4,500 employees manufacture the ŠKODA Yeti alongside the ŠKODA Superb and ŠKODA Roomster.

For the first time, the Yeti is available in two variations: the elegantly-stylish urban ŠKODA Yeti for the city and the off-road ŠKODA Yeti Outdoor. Both variations boast excellent handling on roads and rough terrain. The popular Czech car now sports the latest in ŠKODA design with an updated front, new rear and broader range of wheels. The interior has also seen some significant refinement: There are new three-spoke steering wheels, fabrics and patterns for the seat covers, as well as new decorative trim for the dashboard. In terms of technical features, there have been numerous innovations: the Yeti will be the first ŠKODA model with an optional rear-view camera. There are many Simply Clever solutions and engine-transmission combinations.

Introduced in 2009, the ŠKODA Yeti is one of the most attractive and also most successful compact SUVs on the market. Its distinctive design language, high functionality, extremely spacious interior with compact exterior dimensions, top safety, and excellent value for money set the Czech all-rounder apart from the rest.
The Yeti is fast becoming one of the most successful vehicles in its class. A total of over 288,700 ŠKODA Yetis have been sold to date (As of: 31st October 2013). In Europe, ŠKODA Yeti is one of the best-selling A-class SUVs, and is the clear leader in this segment in the Czech Republic.

ŠKODA sold around 87,400 Yetis in 2012 alone – an increase of 24% over the previous year. And in the first ten months of 2013, 67,300 Yetis have already been delivered to customers worldwide.
The Yeti is currently one of the best-selling A-class SUVs in the European Union with a market share of 4.1%, underlining the Czech brand’s expertise in 4x4 vehicles. Including their 4x4 models, ŠKODA has achieved a total market share of approximately 3% of passenger cars sold in the EU.

As part of the 2018 growth strategy, ŠKODA is increasingly turning to international growth markets. The ŠKODA Yeti has been on the Russian market since the end of 2012, where local production is carried out in partnership with the Russian manufacturer GAZ Group at the plant in Nizhny Novgorod. The Yeti has even been sold in China since mid-2013, currently as an import model. At the end of 2013, a stretched version of the Yeti will be available on the Chinese market. The car will be produced locally with the partner Shanghai Volkswagen.

The most comprehensive model campaign in ŠKODA’s corporate history is continuing in force with the two variations of the Yeti. ŠKODA plans to increase sales globally to at least 1.5 million vehicles per year by 2018.

[Karlheinz]

Strong Growth for ŠKODA in October

› Golden October: ŠKODA’s best October of all time
› ŠKODA grew worldwide by 7.5% to 83,000 sales in October 2013
› 768,700 customer deliveries in the first ten months
› ŠKODA grew by 13.7% in Europe in October; further increases in market shares
› New ŠKODA Octavia: plus 48.8% in October in Western Europe
› Strong second half of the year confirms ŠKODA’s growth strategy
› Most comprehensive model campaign in corporate history proves the brand’s strength

Mladá Boleslav, 14 November 2013 – ŠKODA has seen a sharp increase in sales this October. The Czech manufacturer delivered 83,800 vehicles to customers worldwide, corresponding to a growth of 7.5% over October 2012 (78,000 sales). This is a new October record for the brand. In Europe, ŠKODA saw double-digit growth of 13.7 % to 55,700 units sold. In Germany, the brand grew by 23.5% to over 12,100 vehicles.
Cumulatively, ŠKODA sold 768,700 vehicles worldwide between January to October 2013 (same period last year: 795,100; -3.3%). After the production launches of the new ŠKODA cars during the first six months, the model campaign is unfurling its full power. The brand has set a new record with eight new and revised ŠKODA models being introduced this year alone. Despite some difficult market conditions, new orders continue to develop positively.

"With an increase of 7.5% in October, we have firmly confirmed the positive trend of recent months," says Werner Eichhorn, ŠKODA Board Member for Sales and Marketing. "The global growth once again demonstrates the power of the brand and the appeal of our young model range. The new and revised models have been exceptionally well received. The new Octavia has a very high customer acceptance and has exceeded our expectations." In Western Europe, sales of the new Octavia increased by 48.8% in October and in Central Europe by 23.1% compared to the same month last year. ŠKODA’s market share in Europe grew in the first 10 months of 2013 to over 3.9%. The market launch for the Octavia in China is set for next year.

The Czech carmaker is keeping up the pace in the last quarter of 2013: A few weeks ago the new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback celebrated its market debut in many European markets. ŠKODA has entered the largest vehicle segment in Europe with their first compact hatchback model. Pre-orders are already coming in for the fundamentally revised ŠKODA Yeti with its launch date set of January 2014. This is the first time that the Yeti is to be available in two visually different versions – the ŠKODA Yeti for the urban jungle and the ŠKODA Yeti Outdoor for the country. The production of a completely reworked ŠKODA Superb was also launched a few weeks ago in China.

In Western Europe, ŠKODA recorded a significant increase of 17.3 % in October. Deliveries increased to 32,400 units compared to 27,600 units last October. Once again, the brand has outperformed the overall market. In the first ten months, the market share in Western Europe grew to 3.1% (same period last year: 3.0%). In Germany – ŠKODA’s second largest market worldwide – ŠKODA is building its position as the largest import brand; sales increased in October by 23.5% to over 12,100 units. The brand saw growth into the double figures in the UK (5,700 vehicles; up 23.1%), Denmark (1,400, up 32.0%), Finland (830 vehicles, up 33.6%), Italy (900 vehicles, up 23.0%), the Netherlands (1,200 vehicles, up 21.3%), Norway (760 vehicles, up 25.8%) and Spain (1,000 vehicles, up 56.6%). In Norway, ŠKODA achieved the best monthly sales result ever.

In Eastern Europe, ŠKODA delivered 11,400 vehicles to customers in October (October 2012: 11,600; -1.7%). After ten months, the market share stood at around 3.9%. In Kazakhstan, the brand saw a three-fold increase in sales, selling more cars in one month than ever before. In the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania), almost 700 customers decided on a new ŠKODA, 66.6% more than in October 2012. In Romania, the brand grew by 24.1% with over 600 units and in Serbia by 16.2% with 400 vehicles. In Russia, ŠKODA’s third largest market, the Czechs sold 7,100 vehicles (October 2012: 8,300; -14.5%).

In October ŠKODA grew by more than a fifth in Central Europe: Customer deliveries increased by 21.6% to almost 12,000 vehicles (October 2012: 9,800). With this growth significantly above market average, ŠKODA’s market share increased to 20.5% in October. In their Czech home market, ŠKODA saw significant growth, whilst the market in general declined slightly. Deliveries to customers in the Czech Republic reached 5,700 units (October 2012: 5,300), an increase of 8.2 %. ŠKODA’s market share in the Czech Republic after ten months stands at 35.8% and in the month of October at almost 37.3%.

ŠKODA have proven their strength once again in China - 21,500 vehicles delivered to customers in China (October 2012: 22,900 units; -6.0%), representing the fourth-strongest sales month for ŠKODA since their entry onto the Chinese market around six years ago. Cumulatively over the first ten months, ŠKODA 199,200 sold vehicles in China (January to October 2012: 204,800; -2.7%).
In India, deliveries increased by 16.1% to over 2,300 vehicles. A few weeks ago, the new ŠKODA Octavia was successfully launched on the Indian market.

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

ŠKODA Octavia (34,200; +0.6%)
ŠKODA Fabia (15,500; -17.5%)
ŠKODA Superb (9,100; -2.5%)
ŠKODA Yeti (7,200; +2.2%)
ŠKODA Roomster (2,500; -8.9%)
ŠKODA Rapid (12,000; +426.3%)
ŠKODA Citigo (only sold in Europe: 3,300; -13.0%)

[Karlheinz]

More than one million ŠKODAs build in China

› ŠKODA’s growth strategy successful in China since 2007
› Anniversary with Shanghai Volkswagen: 10,000,000th vehicle produced since 1998 – 10% of which are ŠKODA models
› ŠKODA soon to have six locally produced models in China – new car factory in Ningbo, Southern China

Mladá Boleslav/Shanghai, 15 November 2013 – ŠKODA AUTO is on the path of success in China. Since the Czechs arrived on the Chinese market six years ago, more than a million ŠKODAs have rolled off the production lines at the Shanghai Volkswagen’s (SVW) plant – ŠKODA’s production partner. ŠKODA has had a share of around 10% of a total 10,000,000 cars produced there since 1983. In the coming years, ŠKODA intends to further increase their sales in China. For this, the car maker is doubling the range of products manufactured in the country and gained new production capacity.

“ŠKODA cars are arriving in China,” says ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. “We have hit the million mark with only three models sold in the country. With the expansion of our product range and increased capacity, we will continue to grow in China in the coming years.”

The new SVW plant in Ningbo, Southern China took on the production at the end of October. The first model to roll off the production line was the ŠKODA Superb. ŠKODA currently produces five models in partnership with Shanghai Volkswagen; alongside the Superb in Ningbo, the ŠKODA Fabia, Rapid, Octavia and Yeti are produced at the SVW plants in Anting und Yizheng. In 2014, the new ŠKODA Octavia and Rapid Spaceback are to follow.
Since their market launch in 2007, ŠKODA has produced over 1,000,000 vehicles for China in partnership with SVW. “SVW is a reliable and competent partner for ŠKODA. The evidence for this successful collaboration is the number of over one million cars produced in only six years. This joint success story we will continue,” says Winfried Vahland.

Since 2010, China has been ŠKODA’s strongest individual market. In 2012, the brand achieved a new sales record with 235,700 vehicles being sold in China. In 2013 so far, 199,200 Chinese customers have opted for a ŠKODA (January to October 2013). This corresponds to about a quarter of the brand’s worldwide deliveries.

[Karlheinz]

1.5 million ŠKODAs produced at the Kvasiny plant

› The jubilee vehicle is a ŠKODA Superb
› The ŠKODA Kvasiny plant manufactures three models: The ŠKODA Yeti, ŠKODA Superb and ŠKODA Roomster
› The Kvasiny plant is one of the company’s key production sites and has received substantial investment in line with the brand’s model campaign

Mladá Boleslav/Kvasiny, 21 November 2013 – ŠKODA AUTO has just manufactured its 1,500,000th vehicle at the Kvasiny plant, with the jubilee honours going to a ŠKODA Superb. Three ŠKODA models are currently rolling off the line at Kvasiny: The Superb, Yeti and Roomster. The car maker has substantially expanded and modernised its Eastern Bohemian production site in the last two years under its ongoing model campaign, with large investments going mainly into Assembly, Logistics, and the Body Shop.

Approximately 4,500 employees currently produce the Yeti, Superb and Roomster models at Kvasiny, with a daily output of 800 vehicles in three shifts. “The Kvasiny plant is an important pillar in ŠKODA’s global manufacturing network,” says Michael Oeljeklaus, ŠKODA Member of the Board for Production and Logistics. “2013 is a year of new models for us, and ŠKODA’s Kvasiny plant is one of the pillars of the current model campaign. Two important new models in the ŠKODA portfolio are manufactured at Kvasiny – the completely revised Superb and Yeti. Successful starts of production have confirmed the high level of performance displayed by our employees,” adds Oeljeklaus.

ŠKODA has expanded and modernised important areas in vehicle production at the Kvasiny plant over the last two years: The start of production of the new Superb involved a strong drive to modernise the Assembly and Body Shop with new equipment and tooling. The plant has also optimised its logistics process and rebuilt the final assembly testing facility. A new logistics building and assembly line for the Roomster has also been opened at the beginning of 2013. Furthermore, the Kvasiny plant has started to assemble axles. This step was preceded by a doubling of the production capacity for the Yeti to 100,000 units per year.

Since the beginning of November 2013, a completely revised Yeti in two variants has been rolling off the assembly lines at Kvasiny: The elegant ŠKODA Yeti for city driving, and the ŠKODA Yeti Outdoor version, which has been tuned for adventure. Both versions feature an attractive new design, new interiors and modern technologies. A thoroughly refreshed version of ŠKODA’s two flagships, the Superb and Superb Combi, has also been launched into production at Kvasiny in May 2013. The Superb offers compelling details incorporating ŠKODA’s new design language, a fresh interior and improved technical features. The Eastern Bohemian plant’s product range is completed by the ŠKODA Roomster.The Kvasiny plant is able to rely on approximately 80 years of manufacturing heritage, and is one of the most important employers in the region. Cars have been produced at this site since the early 1930’s, including the JAWA 700. The first model of the ŠKODA brand built at Kvasiny was the ŠKODA Superb in 1947. This was followed by the ŠKODA Felicia (1958-1964), the ŠKODA 110 R Coupé (1970-1980), and the ŠKODA Pick-up/VW Caddy Pick-up (1995-2001). The new generation of the ŠKODA Superb went into production in 2001, followed by the ŠKODA Yeti in 2009. The production of the Roomster has returned back to Kvasiny at the beginning of 2013. ŠKODA AUTO continues to support a wide range of cultural, sporting, and social projects in and around Kvasiny.

The Kvasiny site is an integral element in ŠKODA’s production capability alongside its other Czech sister plants in Mladá Boleslav and Vrchlabí. ŠKODA also relies on additional production capacities to deliver cars locally made for customers in key international growth markets, e.g. China, India and Russia.

Selected ŠKODA AUTO production milestones since 1991

- 21 November 2013: 1.5 million ŠKODAs produced at the Kvasiny plant since 1947
- 26 August 2013: 4 million ŠKODA Octavias
- 9 July 2013: 1 million ŠKODAs produced in China since 2007
- 5 February 2013: 15 million ŠKODA vehicles produced since 1905
- 4 May 2012: 3 million ŠKODA Fabias
- 30 January 2012: 14 million ŠKODA vehicles produced since 1905
- 12 October 2011: 10 million ŠKODA vehicles produced at the Mladá Boleslav plant
- 2 September 2011: 4 million MQ 200 gearboxes produced at Mladá Boleslav
- 8 April 2009: 12 million ŠKODA vehicles produced since 1905
- 13 July 2006: 10 million ŠKODA vehicles produced since 1905
- 1991: 5 million ŠKODA vehicles produced since 1905

[Karlheinz]

New systems make ŠKODA’s production logistics more efficient and environmentally friendly

› Modern top-level production logistics is the cornerstone of ŠKODA vehicle production
› ’Simply Clever’: New systems simplify processes and protect the environment
› The right part in the right place at the right time, now even quicker
› New containers for steering wheels reduce transport costs by 40 percent

Mladá Boleslav, 25 November 2013 – Production logistics that functions flawlessly is essential for high productivity in vehicle production. Seamless production in the 13 ŠKODA manufacturing sites worldwide is only guaranteed if vehicle parts and components are available in the right place at the right time in the required quantity. To this end, the Czech car company ŠKODA AUTO uses a sophisticated, efficient, and internationally oriented logistics system. ŠKODA makes its parts logistics now even more efficient, fast, and environmentally friendly with new high-tech solutions for the Mladá Boleslav main production facility.

There are three simultaneous logistics innovations in the Mladá Boleslav factory. A new transport container for steering wheels has space for more steering wheels and is also significantly lighter than the model used hitherto. An improved sequence container speeds up the supply of parts to the assembly line. And parts delivery at the touch of a button is now possible thanks to the fully automatic transport system.

The use of the most modern storage and transport technology in production is an important element of the ŠKODA growth strategy 2018. ”By 2018, ŠKODA will increase the number of sold vehicles to at least 1.5 million units per year,” says Michael Oeljeklaus, ŠKODA’s Production and Logistics board member. ”Our new model initiative sets high standards for production and the corresponding logistics structure and processes. Powerful logistics is a precondition for top-level vehicle production. The most recent innovations in our main production facility are an important step towards further optimisation of logistics processes and hence also towards increased efficiency and productivity during production,” continues Oeljeklaus.

The new ŠKODA logistics centre in Mladá Boleslav was put in operation half a year ago. The most recent innovations optimise the logistics processes in the production of the Czech car manufacturer. ”The new systems speed up logistics processes, decrease costs, and protect the environment. That’s just clever,” says Jiří Cee, Head of ŠKODA Logistics.
For example, the new transport containers for steering wheels offer several advantages as compared to those used previously: They are lighter, have larger volumes, require less space, and are cheaper. The capacity of the new container grows by 20 percent, and it is also able to house steering wheels from several car models, unlike until now, when it was just one model. Thanks to the fact that it uses plastic material that is 98% recycled, the new box is also 62 kilograms lighter than the previous version in steel. The container can even be folded in when empty. The significantly reduced weight and the improved size decrease transport costs per steering wheel by 40 percent. Furthermore, using thenew container protects the environment: The CO2 emission per charge carrier is 75% lower per transport. The manufacturing costs per container are also 23 percent lower. Detail progress is necessary in order to continue improving the eco-balance of car manufacturing.

The precisely timed delivery of the parts needed to the assembly line are essential for efficient production – the so-called ‘just in sequence’ delivery. So-called ‘pick-up’ systems play a central role. A new solution is now being applied in the Mladá Boleslav factory: a sequence container with ‘pick-by-frame’. The technology aids workers when loading the picking vehicle and makes the process safer.

The third innovation in the ŠKODA factory logistics is the new, fully automatic control of transport vehicles in the warehouse. It is an Automated Guided Vehicle System (AGV) which delivers the required parts and components via centrally guided transport vehicles directly to the shelves of the assembly line. This also saves time and money.
These new solutions are parts of a sophisticated production logistics system which ensures optimal supply to the 13 global production sites via the entire logistics value chain. ŠKODA models are currently being produced in the Czech Republic, China, Russia, and India, as well as in Kazakhstan and Ukraine. Worldwide, the manufacturer has already produced 685,000 vehicles during the first nine months of this year.

For this production system, approximately 1,250 employees in ŠKODA Logistics operate every year millions of parts, components and vehicle systems. Annually around 52,000 train cars are transported from and to the Czech ŠKODA car factories. Additionally 469,000 truck transports take place from and to all three Czech ŠKODA factories every year. ŠKODA Logistics is dealing with enormous orders of magnitude also for the storage and logistics surfaces needed in the context of the logistics flow: They add up to more than 321,000 square meters in the three Czech factories of Mladá Boleslav, Kvasiny and Vrchlabí alone. This is equal to about 50 football fields.

[Karlheinz]

Production launch of the ŠKODA Yeti in China

› Local production in association with Shanghai Volkswagen
› ŠKODA’s latest appearance in China with locally produced SUV
› The new ŠKODA Yeti features a distinctive design and innovative technology
› ŠKODA aims to grow in China to more than half a million vehicles per year
› More than one million ŠKODAs produced in China since 2007

Mladá Boleslav/Shanghai, 29 November 2013 – A special version of the ŠKODA Yeti, specifically targeted at the local market, is now running off the production lines in China. Shortly after the launch of the European model at the Czech ŠKODA Kvasiny plant, production has now started in China in association with ŠKODA’s longstanding partner, Shanghai Volkswagen. In addition to its larger dimensions, the Yeti features an optional spare tyre on the tailgate. By now producing a locally-built compact SUV, the Czech carmaker has made their appearance in the rapidly growing segment of compact sport utility vehicles. The market launch of the new Yeti in China started in November.

“The production launch of the ŠKODA Yeti is another milestone for our growth in China,” says ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. “We have now made our first appearance in the important class of compact SUVs with a locally-produced model in China. With the Yeti and our attractive model range, we will continue to write ŠKODA’s success story in China.”

The ŠKODA Yeti is one of the most attractive and also most successful compact SUVs worldwide. A few weeks ago, ŠKODA unveiled the completely redesigned Yeti for the European market. For the first time, the Czechs’ compact SUV is now available in two versions; the elegantly-stylish ŠKODA Yeti for the city and the adventurous ŠKODA Yeti Outdoor. Both versions of the Yeti will also be available in China in the future, where the Chinese customers’ wishes for more space in the back have been met by extending the wheel base of the new Yeti by six centimetres. Alongside classic saloons, SUVs are increasingly being used as chauffeur vehicles in China. As an option the spare wheel of the ŠKODA Yeti can be mounted externally on the tailgate.

The ŠKODA Yeti boasts excellent handling on roads and over rough terrain. The current ŠKODA design features a distinctive front, new rear wheels and more wheel options. For the interior, there are new three-spoke steering wheels, fabrics and patterns for the seat covers, as well as a new decorative trim for the dashboard. In terms of technical features, the ŠKODA SUV features several innovations; the ŠKODA Yeti can be equipped with an optional rear-view camera. There are also fantastic Simply Clever solutions and engine/transmission combinations.

After the Octavia, Fabia, Superb and Rapid, the Yeti is currently the fifth ŠKODA model produced locally with the Chinese partner SVW. The new ŠKODA Octavia and new Rapid Spaceback are to follow in 2014. Since the market launch six years ago, over a million ŠKODAs have been built at the Chinese SVW plant. ŠKODA vehicles have accounted for a share of around ten percent of the total number of cars produced at SVW since 1983.

China has been ŠKODA’s strongest individual market since 2010. In 2012, the brand achieved a new sales record of 235,700 vehicles sold in China. So far in 2013, 199,200 Chinese customers have opted for a ŠKODA (January-October 2013). This corresponds to approximately one quarter of the brand’s global deliveries.

[Karlheinz]

59,674 new trees for the Czech Republic thanks to ŠKODA

› Successful conclusion to the 2013 environmental project ‘For each car sold in the Czech Republic, ŠKODA plants a tree’
› Environmental Action Programme running since 2007 – over 423,000 trees planted to date
› High level of ŠKODA employees’ commitment in their home regions

Mladá Boleslav, 03 December 2013 – A successful conclusion to this year’s ŠKODA environmental action programme ‘For each car sold in the Czech Republic, ŠKODA plants a tree’: Including the final action days in Kvasiny, Mladá Boleslav and Benátky nad Jizerou, another 59,674 new trees were planted in selected regions of the Czech Republic in this, the seventh year of the programme. This record number is equal to the number of ŠKODA vehicles sold in the Czech Republic in 2012. Since the start of ŠKODA’s environmental programme in 2007, 423,000 trees have been planted in the country.

“Through our environmental programme, and thanks to our record sales figures in 2012, more new trees have been planted this year in the Czech Republic than ever before. We are pleased that we have been able to make our country that little bit greener,” says ŠKODA Board Member for HR, Bohdan Wojnar. “Every single tree contributes to the restoration of our landscapes and is a symbol of the ŠKODA brand’s success. It is particularly encouraging to see our employees getting involved. The project demonstrates our environmental responsibility,” he adds.
From the very beginning, the employees have actively participated in planting the trees. They have helped in finding suitable land, proposing reforestation areas, and have been actively engaged in planting each new tree by hand. Actively getting involved strengthens the employees’ relationship to the places where they live and work, and this has been an important goal from the start of the programme.

The 59,674 new trees in 2013 come to the benefit of towns and communities throughout the Czech Republic. One focus is on regions where ŠKODA has its production sites. New places for planting are selected in collaboration with long-standing partners each year. This year, the manufacturer has worked with a total of 25 communities and non-profit organizations. Seven of which took part for the first time.
The environmental programme is an integral part of the Czech car manufacturer’s broad social commitment in their home market. The focal points are in the areas of social welfare, environmental protection, culture and sports. Corporate Social Responsibility, or CSR, is far more than just a buzz-phrase for ŠKODA, and is actively put into practice and targeted in numerous activities and projects: In the area of children and youth in the Czech Republic, the company supports the Tereza Maxová Foundation, in addition to the ‘Centrum Paraple’ and the ‘Medical Clowns’ project. Furthermore, ŠKODA AUTO is committed to traffic safety and has for many years supported the ‘City Roads’ programme. Another focus has been on continuing the commitment to people with disabilities, which includes supporting the Czech Paralympic Committee, as well as the ŠKODA AUTO Handy programme which has the improved mobility of handicapped people written on the flags.

Furthermore, ŠKODA AUTO is also committed to enhancing the attractiveness of technical education at schools and, with its own vocational school and university, is among the most eminent training companies in the country. Additionally, ŠKODA provides support as one of the biggest sponsors of cultural events in the Czech Republic: with partners including the Czech Philharmonic, the Prague National Theatre and the National Museum of Technology. The carmaker also supports selected cultural events, such as the classical music festival Smetanova Litomyšl and the International Children's and Youth Film Festival in Zlín.

From children's road safety campaigns and supporting infrastructure and culture, to the 423,000 trees now planted: In recognition of ŠKODA’s full commitment to the locations of Vrchlabí and Rychnov nad Kněžnou/Kvasiny, ŠKODA AUTO received the special corporate award ‘Best business location’ (City for Business) a few days ago.