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

“With just about 7.5 million units produced since the first modern generation debuted in 1996, the Octavia remains the heart of our brand. This latest update sets new standards in design, technology, and sustainability. The model is now even safer, with the higher proportion of sustainable materials in the seats, dashboard, and door trims, alongside the integration of cutting-edge connectivity features.”

Andreas Dick, Škoda Auto Board Member for Production and Logistics

Expanding Octavia production: a strategic move
Production of the Octavia has begun in Mladá Boleslav, with options for four petrol and two diesel engines, delivering up to 195 kW (265 hp), along with mild-hybrid versions. In the second half of the year, Škoda Auto intends to shift Octavia production to the Kvasiny plant. This strategic move will increase capacity for Octavia production in Kvasiny while freeing up space at the Mladá Boleslav plant to focus on the production of the Enyaq, Enyaq Coupé, and Elroq models.

The Octavia’s legacy: a multi-award-winning market leader
Since its 1996 premiere, the modern Octavia has embodied Škoda Auto’s new image, setting new standards and shaping the company’s direction. It quickly became a top seller and now leads the sales rankings in seven European nations, including the Czech Republic, Austria, and Slovakia. Moreover, the Octavia Combi is the most popular estate car in the Czech Republic, Italy, Switzerland, and 11 other countries.

Last month, the Škoda Octavia was named the best import car in its category at the prestigious Best Cars Readers’ Choice Awards by the German magazine ‘auto motor and sport’, marking its 11th consecutive win in the compact class import category.

Upgraded Octavia: refined aesthetics and cutting-edge technology
The latest iteration of the Octavia boasts a refined exterior, offering a sleeker and more dynamic look. With the addition of second-generation LED matrix beam headlights as an optional feature, it combines functionality with style. Inside, customers have the choice of four trim levels and nine Design Selection trims, all incorporating eco‑friendly components, such as recycled fabrics and sustainably treated leather. True to Škoda’s Simply Clever philosophy, even the practical features – like the ice scraper in the fuel filler cap and the optional umbrellas in the front doors – are made from sustainable materials.

On the technology front, the Octavia’s infotainment system now features a standard 10-inch display. Improving the driving experience, the integration of the AI chatbot ChatGPT into the Laura voice assistant system is now standard, offering new capabilities that significantly expand upon traditional voice command functions. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with an array of advanced assist systems, including Collision Avoidance Assist, Turn Assist, and Exit Warning, further enhancing safety and convenience for all occupants.

The Octavia’s Sportline and RS variants: dynamic design and powerful performance
Škoda will continue to offer the Octavia in both Sportline and RS versions. Known for its dynamic design, the Octavia Sportline offers four engine options: two diesel and two petrol powertrains. Since the year 2000, the sportiest Octavia versions have featured the legendary ‘RS’ designation. The RS version, equipped with a 2.0 TSI engine delivering 195 kW (265 hp), features distinctive glossy black details and a red reflector strip on the rear, highlighting its sporty appearance.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

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

“At Škoda Auto, we put our customers first and strive to make their journey as seamless as possible. Listening to our customers’ feedback is therefore essential to enhance their user experience inside and outside the car through innovative new features. We are thus enhancing the functionality of the MyŠkoda app, migrating all features to one platform. With the integration of Powerpass, EV and Plug-in hybrid customers have direct access with our new app to more than 660,000 charging points across Europe. And with smart services like Pay to Park and Pay to Fuel, we are further facilitating everyday life of many more customers.”

Martin Jahn, Škoda Auto Board Member for Sales and Marketing

New features, easier to use and compatible with all current models
With the updated MyŠkoda app, customers benefit from several new features bundled in one application as well as from a more intuitive design. Customers of all-electric, plug-in hybrid and conventional power train models receive access to new features that make their everyday life easier, for example through smart services like Pay to Park and Pay to Fuel. Introducing a completely new look, the updated app features a brand-new home screen, revised graphics and an informative widget, which makes the app even easier to use.

All current and upcoming models support the newest update, including those with combustion engines and plug-in hybrid powertrains manufactured after July 2020. Users who previously used the MyŠkoda Essentials app can now make transition to the new MyŠkoda app, keeping their existing Škoda account. Meanwhile, owners of Škoda models produced until July 2020 will continue to use the MyŠkoda Essentials app for the time being.

A wide range of new features
The updated MyŠkoda app integrates numerous digital services from Škoda Connect and now covers additional parts along the customer journey. Users anticipating delivery of their Škoda car will appreciate the new Track & Explore function, which offers real-time information on the vehicle’s production status. Additionally, they can review their vehicle’s configuration at any time. For those eager to explore their new vehicle’s functionalities, the app provides access to how-to videos in the UK, Ireland, France and Spain.

The improved MyŠkoda app now also includes new smart services for customers, who already received their car. With Pay to Park, the app simplifies the process of recognising of parking zones and paying for parking in various cities across Europe. Pay to Fuel is another new smart feature that enables automatic payments at selected fuelling stations, skipping the queue at the cashier.

Integration of Powerpass: More than 660,000 charging points in one app
For drivers of the Enyaq and PHEV models, the refreshed MyŠkoda app provides additional new features. Most important, Powerpass charging is now integrated directly in the MyŠkoda app – making the old app obsolete. The new feature is granting access to more than 660,000 charging points across Europe thanks to partnerships with more than 870 providers. It also simplifies the management of home charging solutions, such as the Škoda iV Chargers. On top of that, the app offers the possibility to manage charging plans, use the Plug & Charge function, and view the charging history. Current Powerpass users can download or update the MyŠkoda app, navigate to the Powerpass section and confirm their Škoda ID connection for a fully automatic data transfer. Checking the Škoda Enyaq’s charging status from home or activating the Climate Control before setting off are just two further examples of the extended functionality of the MyŠkoda app.

A more intuitive design and additional entertainment options
The app’s new design further improves the user experience providing a design comparable to a simplified home screen. Additionally, essential information – like the charging or vehicle status – can now be displayed through widgets on the home screen, enhancing accessibility. The new MyŠkoda app also adds convenience for guest users, allowing, for example, the remote control of charging and air conditioning for their partner’s Enyaq.

In addition, the new MyŠkoda app offers a dynamic news feed featuring visuals and articles from the world of Škoda. Moreover, a loyalty programme has been introduced in the UK, Ireland, France, and Spain, allowing users to earn points by completing various challenges. These points can be redeemed for Škoda merchandise.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

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

“The coming Škoda Epiq will package a lot of car for an attractive price and a big interior with a compact size. Our customers want choices, which is why we are expanding our growing e-mobility portfolio into this popular segment. I hope these first design teasers demonstrate that the Epiq will shine because of its modern design, everyday range and user-friendly technologies – all of it affordable.”

Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto

4.1 metres long, electric range of over 400 km and up to 490 litres of luggage capacity
The new digital design study released by Škoda highlights key features and characteristics of the future production vehicle. At 4.1 metres in length, the Škoda Epiq city SUV crossover will have plenty of space for five people and a luggage capacity of up to 490 litres. With an entry-level price starting at around 25,000 euros, it is the perfect choice for customers new to electric mobility. It fully incorporates the powerful new Modern Solid design language – inside and out – and offers a maximum electric range of more than 400 kilometres.

“Our new design language – Modern Solid – represents the next level of modernity. Smart functionality and practicality are harmoniously balanced by attractive new looks and our sustainability approach. The Škoda Epiq design study perfectly embodies all the key attributes of the new design language.”

Oliver Stefani, Head of Škoda Design

Modern Solid: powerful, functional, authentic design reinterprets classic Škoda attributes
The new Modern Solid design language combines robustness, functionality and authenticity. The Škoda Epiq design study features a sculpted bonnet bearing a new Škoda wordmark. Its Tech-Deck Face in glossy black is a modern reinterpretation of the familiar Škoda grille and houses electrical devices like the distance radar and the front camera. The Tech-Deck Face is flanked by bifunctional, T-shaped LED elements for the daytime running lights and indicators. The front headlamps are in a lower, secondary position. Their light modules have a cubist-inspired design and feature Matrix LED technology. The robust front bumper comes with a striking spoiler painted in Unique Dark Chrome. The side view is characterised by a high, sweeping tornado line that visually separates the greenhouse from the rest of the body and emphasises the car’s powerful shoulders. The wheel arches below are picked out with a striking trim and house aerodynamically optimised wheels. The low, gently sloping roof line merges into a roof spoiler for optimal aerodynamic efficiency. The rear also features a robust bumper and Škoda lettering in Unique Dark Chrome on the tailgate. The minimalist look of the Škoda Epic design study is underlined by the matt metallic paintwork in bright Moon White. Flashy Orange detailing on the roof rails and the wheels as well as on the front and rear bumpers add visual interest.

Minimalist, functional interior and new technologies
The Škoda Epiq will be the first production vehicle to feature a minimalist Modern Solid interior focusing on durable, practical and sustainable materials. It has an open storage compartment that includes a wireless mobile phone charger in the free-floating centre console as well as Simply Clever compartments for even more storage options. The boot also benefits from some of the brand’s hallmark Simply Clever details such as bag hooks, cargo elements, fastening hooks and a hidden underfloor compartment. The two-spoke steering wheel showcases the new Škoda lettering as well as physical buttons and haptic scroll wheels with Flashy Orange accents to control key functions while driving. The mobile digital key enables a wide range of interactions via the customer’s smart device, thus enhancing the user’s digital experience. This underlines the consistent customer focus of Škoda’s “mobile first” approach designed to make drivers’ everyday lives easier. The Škoda Epiq also supports bidirectional charging, transforming the car into a rolling energy storage unit that can feed excess electric energy into the customer’s home and other appliances.

A striking name for an epic milestone in Škoda history
The Škoda Epiq will be a milestone in Škoda history, which is emphasised by its distinctive and easily recognisable name. It fits perfectly into the nomenclature of Škoda’s BEV SUV models: the E at the beginning stands for a battery-electric Škoda model, while the Q at the end identifies it as a member of the brand’s SUV family. Epiq is derived from the ancient Greek word “epos”, which stands for “word” or “verse”, but also for “tale” or “poem”. The name evokes positive associations such as amazing, great, extraordinary and remarkable. With its clever features and versatility, the Škoda Epiq aims to fulfil the needs of both family- and lifestyle-oriented customers. The city SUV crossover will be made in Pamplona, Spain, as a joint development and production project of Volkswagen’s Brand Group Core representatives Škoda, Cupra and Volkswagen. Škoda Auto is committed to investing billions of euros into its transformation towards e-mobility in the coming years. The Škoda Elroq, a battery-electric compact SUV, will be the first vehicle to be launched as part of the upcoming electric model campaign, with its debut scheduled for later this year.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

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

Octavia: the eighth chapter in the legacy
In March 1959, Škoda unveiled two comprehensively upgraded vehicles at the Geneva Motor Show: The Octavia, a closed-top saloon and the Felicia, a convertible. Among many other modifications, these cars received a redesigned front axle, where the traditional leaf spring suspension was replaced with coil springs paired with telescopic dampers. Regarding the model designations, the car manufacturer moved away from numerical model naming, opting instead for word designations.

For the saloon, formerly known as the Š 440/445, the name Octavia was chosen, derived from the Latin numeral ‘octava’, meaning eighth. This was fitting, as it was the eighth model produced by the Mladá Boleslav-based carmaker since 1945. On top of that, from a technical standpoint, the Octavia was the eighth vehicle featuring a backbone frame, independent front suspension, and four-cylinder engines. The base version of the Octavia was powered by a 1. 1- litre four-cylinder engine delivering 29.4 kW (40 hp), driving the rear wheels through a four-speed gearbox and achieving a top speed of 110 km/h. The more powerful Octavia Super featured a 1.2- litre engine (33 kW/45 hp), reaching a top speed of 115 km/h.

Felicia: a symbol of happiness captivates New York
Alongside the four-seater Octavia models with their closed bodies, the beginning of 1959 also saw the launch of an attractive convertible named Felicia. The 1089 cm³ four-cylinder engine with a twin-carburettor tuned to produce 50 hp (37 kW). The model designation was derived from the Latin word ‘felicitas’, meaning happiness. The Škoda Felicia was the successor to the open-top Škoda 450, primarily aimed at export markets. Between 1958 and 1959, only around a thousand units of this car were produced. However, the automaker was well aware of the new Felicia model’s potential: Thus, shortly after the March premieres in Geneva and Leipzig, three new convertibles made their way across the pond to the New York Auto Show at the Coliseum in April 1959, attended by nearly seventy exhibitors from around the world. There was great interest in the Czechoslovak convertible, partly thanks to a joint promotion with Miss USA 1957, Charlotte Sheffield. Though the Felicia model’s career was not long, it was exceptionally successful. By 1964, nearly 15,000 units of this series had been produced for markets in Europe, South and Central America and even Africa.

Beyond a new axle: a host of technical enhancements
Both the Octavia and Felicia were the result of a major overhaul of the ‘Spartak’ model with the new front axle standing out as a key upgrade among many. The engineers focused on reducing vibration transmission, enhancing driving comfort, and improving engine lubrication and cooling.

Reviving legends: the Octavia and Felicia in modern times
In the 1990’s, the symbolic and real value of these model designations warranted their reintroduction. Thus, on 26 October 1994, the new Škoda Felicia hatchback was officially unveiled to the public at the Atrium Hotel in Prague. The successor of the Škoda Favorit was equipped with numerous safety features, for example airbags and an ABS braking system. In June 1995, the model portfolio was extended by the Felicia Combi estate variant, which was first presented to the public at the Brno Auto Show.

The first modern generation of the Octavia made its debut in 1996, marking a milestone in the automaker’s recent history. The model quickly became the car manufacturer’s best-selling vehicle. The second generation was launched in 2004, followed by the third in 2012. The current fourth modern generation debuted in 2019 and underwent a facelift in February 2024. With over seven million units sold across its four modern generations, the Octavia ranks among the top ten best-selling cars in Europe and remains a mainstay of Škoda’s line-up.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

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

“With our new headquarters, we are stating our clear commitment to both our location in Mladá Boleslav and our heritage. We made a conscious decision to name the new building complex after our company’s visionary founders – Václav Laurin and Václav Klement. This building is designed to foster interaction, discussion, and inspiration – a place where ideas are conceived, innovations nurtured, and teams strengthened. At the same time, the buildings reflect Škoda Auto’s values, incorporating cutting-edge technology and focusing on our ambitious sustainability goals.”

Karsten Schnake, Škoda Auto Board Member for Procurement

“As the builder of and investor in Škoda Auto’s new corporate headquarters, we take great pride in presenting this innovative campus building to our Czech colleagues. I would like to express my sincere thanks for the trust placed in us and the excellent cooperation with the Škoda team throughout the entire project. As a real estate partner for the Volkswagen Group brands, we are deeply committed to sustainable construction, aiming to make a tangible contribution to achieving climate protection goals with our buildings.”

Meno Requardt, CEO of Volkswagen Immobilien

State-of-the-art working environment for up to 2,000 employees
Built within a two-year timeframe, the interconnected complex consists of four buildings. It will enable synergies to be efficiently tapped and promote direct interactions across various departments and units. The five-storey Laurin & Klement Kampus will bring together up to 2,000 employees previously working across around 20 buildings in Mladá Boleslav and Prague.
Additionally, the complex includes a modular conference area equipped with the latest audio-visual technology, accommodating up to 400 people. It also houses a restaurant and café catering to both employees and visitors, over 680 parking spaces, 138 electric vehicle charging stations, and a dedicated bike storage facility.

New Work focus at Škoda Auto’s headquarters
With the Laurin & Klement Kampus, the Czech carmaker is introducing contemporary New Work office concepts, tailored to the demands of a modern workforce. The campus is divided into various zones, each designed with a wide range of needs and activities in mind and supported by cutting-edge technology. A key aspect of this modern work environment is desk sharing over 22,800 m² of net office space, allowing employees to use flexible workspaces within their respective areas.

In addition to conventional office zones, the building features designated community areas, designed to encourage networking, social interactions, discussions, and relaxation. Employees will have access to a comprehensive range of facilities aimed at improving employee well-being, fostering creativity, and enhancing motivation, thus contributing to the company’s success.

Key factor: sustainability
The new building is expected to receive a gold certificate from the German Sustainable Building Council. This certification is internationally recognised, setting a global benchmark for sustainable construction practices. It ensures the building meets clearly defined standards of sustainability while allowing for international comparability.

The building is equipped with a 222-panel photovoltaic system, boasting a peak power of 100 kW. It also incorporates technical innovations that will significantly reduce energy consumption. For example, LED technology, alongside smart light sensors, reduces power usage by half compared to conventional fluorescent lighting. Additionally, the building features highly efficient ventilation systems that cool the premises overnight and an air conditioning system with an 80% energy recovery rate. Rolling shutters, which shield the complex from sunlight, further enhance efficiency and reduce the building’s cooling load by 30%.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

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