04/2025

Škoda Mobil April

• Cover

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• News

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  +3

  In Europe, Škoda has moved from the seventh to the fourth best-selling brand.
  

  News
  

  Record Results and What’s Ahead 
  

  The carmaker’s 2024 financial results were outstanding across all key indicators, confirming that the carmaker is ready for the next transformation phase. The Škoda Auto Group achieved record sales of EUR 27.8 billion (approximately CZK 695 billion), 4.7% more than in 2023. Operating profit was EUR 2.3 billion (roughly CZK 57.6 billion), 30% more than in the previous year. Sales profitability, which is the ratio between a company’s profit after tax and its total sales, is also crucial. Last year, it increased by 1.6 percentage points to 8.3%. This was mainly due to higher sales, which reached 926,600 cars last year, a positive mix of models sold, consistent implementation of the Next Level Efficiency+ programme and favourable exchange rate effects. The Škoda brand has also secured a good position for the future, offering the youngest and most comprehensive portfolio ever across all powertrain types. Moreover, it will continue to expand. Alongside the financial results, the carmaker has unveiled the first images of its upcoming all-electric family SUV, based on the Vision 7S study. The debut of the Epiq urban crossover is also imminent. Watch a video recapping a record year.

  The world of Škoda Auto
  

  Kodiaq for the Health Clown initiative

  In the fourth edition of the Car for the Health Clown competition, children can design a Kodiaq with a plug‑in hybrid drive. The winning design will be applied to a real Kodiaq vehicle, which Škoda Auto will hand over to the organisation at the end of May. Children who are under 15 and living in the Czech Republic can create their designs using the digital tool on the Autoproklauna.skoda-auto.cz website until 21 April. The jury will then select 10 designs for the public to vote on.

  Clapperboards on display at Škoda Museum

  Once again, you can see unique clapperboards transformed into artworks by Czech artists as part of the Salon of Film Clapperboards. They will be on display at the Škoda Museum until 10 April, then move to the Ferdinand Porsche Birth House in Vratislavice nad Nisou, where they will be shown from 11 to 13 April. After touring, they will be auctioned off at the Zlín Film Festival, of which Škoda Auto has been a partner for more than 20 years.

  New wallboxes in the E‑Shop

  Since the end of March, you can order the new Škoda Charger home charger for electric vehicles (we introduced it in the October 2024 issue of Škoda Mobil) in the official Škoda E-Shop. You can take advantage of an employee discount. The new device, which is available in three variants, communicates directly with the car to ensure it is charged on time. All you have to do is set a departure time. The integration into the MyŠkoda app also gives you a perfect overview of charging.

  Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited manufactured its half‑millionth engine in March. The fuel‑efficient 1.0 TSI and 1.5 TSI petrol units have been produced at the Pune plant since 2014.
  

  Škoda Plus, the certified pre-owned vehicle programme, had a successful 2024. 

  53,734

  Number of cars sold in the programme.

  +9.1%

  Year-on-year increase in sales.

  Top-selling models

  Octavia

  23.8%

  Top-selling models

  Fabia

  17.2%

  Top-selling models

  Scala

  14%

  Maren Gräf among the best female managers

  The expert jury of the 20th edition of the TOP Women of the Czech Republic poll announced by Hospodářské noviny awarded Maren Gräf, Board Member for People & Culture, third place in the category of female managers. “This award reflects the incredible work we do together at Škoda Auto. We wish to continue to make meaningful changes, be exemplary leaders and shape the future of work,” said Gräf, who also gave an interview to Hospodářské noviny. You can read it on Škoda Space.

  Škoda enters Oman

  The next step in the carmaker’s internationalisation is to enter the market in the Middle East country of Oman. In cooperation with Premium Motors, Škoda has opened a showroom in the capital city of Muscat, offering a full range of internal combustion engine cars imported from Europe, as well as the Kushaq model from India. The plan is to open three more showrooms and service centres in Oman by 2029. The local market is now the fifth-largest in the region and has great potential for growth.

  Škoda eRally Cup for the fifth time

  Škoda’s official esport series kicked off in March with the famous Rallye Monte-Carlo. This season, it continues on the EA Sports WRC platform and includes four sub-tournaments, the results of which count towards the overall standings. The finals of each tournament will be broadcast live. The final is scheduled for 13 December and will determine the overall winner, who will be rewarded with a drive in a real competition special.

  
  

  16

  Total number of events in the Škoda eRally Cup 2025, which are divided into four sub-tournaments.

  How they see us
  

  Aktuálně.cz
  

  Elroq 85
  

  Škoda’s new electric model has completed an “Alpine test” in the form of a winter journey over the mountains to Croatia and back.

  (12 March 2025)

  It proves suitable for long‑distance travel as an EV

  Pre-heating function enables faster charging

  Economical operation even in cold weather

  Large and generously shaped luggage compartment

  Comfort and plenty of space, even in the rear seats

  Above-average sound insulation

  Excellent manoeuvrability

  Exclusively digital control of on-board functions

  Lacks multi-function buttons like those in Superb and Kodiaq

  Images from cameras around the car could be sharper

  Built-in navigation not fully up-to-date

  

  On the net 
  

  Kodiaq gets sporty
  

  Škoda’s largest SUV has added a sporty RS variant to its range in its second generation. Its dynamics were put to the test by rally champion Emil Lindholm. He praised the engine’s flexibility, the front axle’s precision and the generous space, as you can see for yourself in the video in the online Škoda Storyboard magazine.

• Skoda made in Vietnam

  Škoda Auto has opened a production plant in the Vietnamese province of Quang Ninh in cooperation with its partner Thanh Cong Group. It will produce the Kushaq and Slavia models adapted for the Vietnamese market.

  Škoda Cars Now Also Produced in Vietnam

  On 26 March, the carmaker achieved another milestone in its internationalisation. In partnership with local partner and investor Thanh Cong Group, Škoda opened a plant for the assembly of Kushaq and Slavia cars.

  Topic

  The Škoda brand has been very successful in the domestic European market and is looking to build on this success abroad. The launch of local car production at the partner plant operated by Thanh Cong Group in the Vietnamese province of Quang Ninh was an important moment for the internationalisation strategy. It benefits from geographical proximity to India, where Škoda Auto produces cars developed for local conditions. Cars are supplied from there to Vietnam as unassembled CKD kits. Production of the Kushaq compact SUV was the first to start at the end of March, followed by the Slavia sedan in the summer. Škoda Auto began operations in Vietnam in September 2023 and is responsible for the VW Group’s activities in the countries that form part of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a region with promising growth potential.  

  With the opening of the new assembly line, we’ve strengthened our position in the ASEAN region. Leveraging synergies with our key market in India lays the foundation for success for the Škoda brand and our local partner, Thanh Cong Group. 

  Klaus Zellmer

  Škoda Auto CEO

  State-of-the-art plant

  The Quang Ninh plant includes final assembly, as well as a welding and paint shop. It features state-of-the-art equipment for both production processes and applied technologies, such as non-contact 3D measurement, advanced four-layer painting and anti-corrosion wax application in body cavities. The facility also houses a modern quality centre, a measuring centre and a polygon that is nearly 2 km long and has various surfaces that faithfully simulate ambient conditions.

  Škoda Auto thoroughly tested all locally assembled models in local conditions before starting series production. The Kushaq has covered more than 330,000 kilometres on Vietnamese roads and undergone extensive climate testing, including tests at temperatures ranging from –10 °C to +42 °C with high humidity.

  The plant is located near one of the largest and most modern ports in Vietnam. This ensures the rapid delivery of CKD assembly kits from the logistics centre in Pune, India, and strengthens the synergies that are vital to the success of the Škoda brand in Vietnam and the wider region. 

  Andreas Dick

  Board Member for Production and Logistics

  Tailored to local customer needs

  Unlike the original Indian models, the Kushaq and Slavia models for the Vietnamese market have left-hand drive and are equipped with advanced safety and comfort features, such as cruise control with radar, blind-spot monitoring and synthetic leather upholstery. Both models are adapted to meet the specific needs and expectations of local customers.

  Škoda Auto entered the Vietnamese market in the autumn of 2023 and has opened 15 sales outlets there. It plans to expand the network to 32 showrooms later this year. Locally produced models form a core part of Škoda’s range there; however, they are complemented by Karoq and Kodiaq SUVs imported from Europe. 

  Vietnam is one of the fastest growing markets in the region and serves as a strategic gateway to the wider Indo-Pacific region.

  Industry support welcomed

  The day after the grand opening of the Škoda car plant, CEO Klaus Zellmer met with Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, following up on their meeting in Prague in January. The prime minister praised Škoda Auto’s support for the Vietnamese automotive industry. He reiterated Vietnam’s commitment to increasing the share of locally manufactured products and technological content. The government also supports green and digital transformation in manufacturing, with the development of the automotive industry for sustainable transport, including the adoption of electric vehicles, a key priority. You can read more about the meeting on Škoda Space. 

  Tour and test drives

  Before local production began, Škoda Auto management representatives visited Vietnam in January. They were scheduled to visit the plant under construction and inspect the welding, painting and assembly facilities. They discussed finalising preparations and the next steps in the upcoming ramp-up of Kushaq production using disassembled kits imported from the plant in Pune, India, with a focus on meeting quality requirements. In addition, members of the management of the Czech carmaker, Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited and TC Group participated in test drives of the cars at the local plant. They compared the Kushaq and Kodiaq models with six competing SUVs in the Vietnamese market. A total of 24 participants took part in a 140 km circuit in the Ha Long area.

• Anniversary / 130-years--april

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  April Fool’s Day at Škoda 

  2022 A little fun doesn’t hurt. In this spirit, Škoda Auto has occasionally allowed itself a little April Fool’s joke.

  For example, on 1 April 2015, it released the statement: “Taking selfies while driving is dangerous. That is why we have equipped the new Škoda Fabia with a camera built directly into the rear-view mirror. Just press a button on the steering wheel, and your safe selfie is ready!” Two years later, the company issued a press release announcing it would compete with the Kodiaq in the FIA World Rally Championship. In 2020, it featured the virtual assistant Laura in its messaging and came up with a humorous announcement: “At last, even Moravians got their wish! Our virtual assistant Laura now not only understands all Moravian dialects but can also respond fluently in them. No other carmaker boasts such a feature.” In 2022, it introduced the Sharyaq and Prediaq models on 1 April. However, it was actually just a promotion. The carmaker had these names registered for activities related to NHL team games in Prague. This was because the San Jose Sharks and the Nashville Predators played there.

  Building employee relationships

  1898 Václav Laurin and Václav Klement were not only visionaries but also entrepreneurs who cared about their employees. As early as 1898, their company opened a new factory and implemented its first work regulations. They regulated the relationship between the company and its employees through 11 provisions. The workers were required to take on tasks beyond their regular assignments as needed. The rapidly changing industry demanded flexibility, and at that time, the production of auxiliary motors for bicycles and later motorcycles was already being considered. The arrival of employees at the workplace was logged using a control number, which had to be hung on a hook in a locker by the gatehouse no later than three minutes after the start of working hours. The work regulations also handled employees’ sickness and accident insurance. It likewise required them to be loyal to the company.

  21st-century offices

  1999 In the spring of 1991, Škoda Auto’s development department had around 600 employees, and eight years later, this number had reached 1,170. The number of projects that Technical Development was working on at that stage increased from five to 40 compared with 1991. On 7 April 1999, a new Design Centre was completed for some of the Technical Development employees in Mladá Boleslav. It was a modern and well-equipped glass building, completed in just 13 months, on the banks of the Jizera River. Because of the risk of flooding, the centre was built on 75 massive pylons. Its original, efficient and timeless architectural design, which was intended to support open communication, earned the Hlaváček & Partner studio the Building of the Year 1999 award.

   

  What happened in April

   

  1906

  The first L&K Voiturette A premieres at the International Exhibition of Automobiles, Motorcycles and Bicycles in Prague.

   

  1907

  Count Alexander Kolowrat wins the L&K FC in the two-litre class in the hill climb race at Semmering.

   

  1911

  Designer Otto Hieronimus wins the Zbraslav–Jíloviště race in an L&K FCR.

   

  1916

  To save coal and electricity, Austria-Hungary introduces daylight saving time. 

   

  1921

  L&K Excelsior ploughs win the 10-day ploughing competition in Lleida, Catalonia.

   

  1929

  Production of the Škoda 430 gets underway.

   

  1933

  The carmaker introduces the Škoda 420 (Standard).

   

  1934

  The Škoda 418 Popular makes its debut.

   

  1955

  The government sets the price of the Škoda 440 Spartak in Standard trim at 27,450 Czechoslovak crowns.

   

  1958

  Those interested in purchasing a new car must prove that neither they nor their spouse own another one.

   

  1959

  The Škoda Felicia is exhibited in New York.

   

  1964

  The last Škoda Octavia Super rolls off the line in Mladá Boleslav.

   

  1971

  The government orders the production of a substantially modernised successor to the Škoda 100/110 series.

   

  1991

  The Škoda trademark is protected in more than 100 countries.

• Anniversary / 130-years--april-2

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  When cars took the baton 

  1905 At the car show in the Industrial Palace in Prague, a forked twin-cylinder engine with a claimed output of 6 hp (4.4 kW), intended for a car under development, was on display on a pedestal.

  In his article, editor Vilém Heinz compared the engine’s power to “about the same” as a nearby two-cylinder motorcycle designed for bicycle racing. By the end of 1905, at least two operational examples of the future Voiturette A were completed. In the meantime, however, the company’s display was still dominated by ‘motorised two-wheelers’, led by the next evolutionary stage of the four-cylinder CCCC model, this time with a single crankshaft.

  Motorcycles, also known as motorised two‑wheelers, were the original foundation of Laurin & Klement’s vehicle portfolio and paved the way for the company’s first car.

  The origins of motorisation

  L&K started working with engines much earlier. As early as 1899, Václav Klement decided to expand into the fledgling motorcycle segment. The brand offered bicycle owners a petrol-powered auxiliary engine. However, it was clear that the future belonged to full‑sized motorcycles, the first to motorise the Laurin & Klement portfolio. In November 1899, the company introduced a motorcycle with an engine of its own design, the Slavia Type A, which was available in 1.25 hp and 1.75 hp variants. The designer Václav Laurin also developed an innovative electric ignition and a custom carburettor. In 1902, the prototype BB was built with a two-cylinder engine mounted transversely in the frame, and the following year, production of the Type CC with a V2 arrangement began. In addition, the company produced liquid-cooled engines. In September 1904, it signed a licence agreement for the production of L&K engines in Dresden under the brand name ‘Germania’, and in the same year, one of the first motorcycles with a four-cylinder engine in the world, the L&K Type CCCC with four connected single-cylinder engines, was built in Mladá Boleslav. After a technical improvement in 1905, the engine was fitted with a common crankshaft and the rear wheel was driven by a metal chain, replacing the leather belt used previously.

  1902

  L&K B

  The company produced 540 units of this single-cylinder motorcycle between 1900 and 1902.

  1904

  L&K L

  A motorcycle produced between 1903 and 1910 (pictured here is a 1904 model).

  1904

  L&K CCCC

  This motorcycle featured the world’s first inline four‑cylinder engine.

  1905

  L&K CCR

  A two-cylinder motorcycle with 550 units produced between 1904 and 1910.

• Anniversary / 130-years--april-3

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  Josef Beneš recalls his work in the repair shop

  1968–2014 He worked at the carmaker for almost five decades and spent most of his time there as a repair shop worker. 

  He started his apprenticeship at the carmaker in 1968. He had wanted to be a car mechanic, but the training programme was already full. However, he was given good advice to train as a metalworker, because a metalworker could also perform car mechanic’s work, but not the other way around, because a mechanic does not have certifications like a welder’s license. At the repair shop where he spent most of his time, the metalworkers frequently handled tasks such as removing engines from the cars and so on.

  In 1992, he joined the repair intake team, where he worked for eight years. He then moved to the workshop area of the repair shop, where he was in charge of the mechanics, bodyworkers and paint technicians and supervised 45 people. He retired from the carmaker in 2014.

  He experienced the biggest changes with the transition from ladder-frame cars to self-supporting bodies. “That made our job quite challenging. When repairing a crashed car, you couldn’t just place a part arbitrarily because there was no frame to attach it to. At that time, the repair shop bought a straightening bench from Austria on which the body parts were straightened using a series of jacks and jibs. It’s still basically the same today,” says Josef. He experienced a further shift as workshop manager when the quality of the cars improved significantly, which increased driving comfort and, most importantly, crew safety. “After the 1990s, with joining the VW Group, new technologies came along. Parts were spot welded, CO2 technology was adopted, and we used plasma for cutting. All this gradually increased the car quality,” adds Josef.

  The full interview can be found on Škoda Space.

• How does the new Enyaq drive?

  Journalists tested the new Škoda Enyaq and Enyaq Coupé models in the scenic setting of the Lipno water reservoir. In addition to the improvements in the already outstanding aerodynamics, these cars feature faster charging and a variety of cutting-edge technologies that will satisfy every electric car enthusiast.

  New Enyaq in Lipno

  Journalists tested the new Škoda electric car in the picturesque South Bohemian countryside. 

  Event

  The hydroelectric power plant at the Lipno dam is one of the landmark renewable energy projects in the Czech Republic. Its central part, with two turbines, started generating electricity as early as 1959. It was a fitting place to present to journalists the new version of Škoda’s pioneering electromobility models, the Enyaq and Enyaq Coupé, whose production has just begun. The event also highlighted Škoda’s focus on sustainability, as outlined in its GreenFuture strategy. Incidentally, these electric models, in version 85, could theoretically travel up to 25 million kilometres on a single day’s production from the Lipno power plant. 

  The event gave participants a great opportunity to experience the car’s features in the varied landscape of the South Bohemian Pošumaví region. They praised the chassis set-up, manoeuvrability, new design and a range of up to 590 km. 

  In addition to a redesigned appearance based on the Modern Solid design language and further improved aerodynamics (see the February 2025 issue of Škoda Mobil), the new car introduces a host of advanced technologies. The main feature is the battery, which on the Enyaq 60 version offers high-speed charging with a power output of up to 165 kW and can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes. For the 85x version, maximum charging power is 175 kW, with charging from 10% to 80% achieved in 28 minutes.

  44

  Number of cars available for testing at Lipno.

  >270

  Number of journalists attended the event.

  270,000

  How many Enyaq and Enyaq Coupé cars have been ordered by customers since 2020.

  Demonstration of cutting-edge technologies

  The event organisers also emphasised the car’s connectivity. They introduced an improved MyŠkoda app with several new functions for electric cars. Among them is the MyŠkoda Club loyalty programme, where users earn points by completing various challenges. The app also displays local offers – for example, at petrol stations and shops. Users also appreciate that Powerpass has been integrated, as it allows recharging at more than 850,000 locations across Europe.

  The car’s Infotainment system also has seen innovations, including quicker access to popular functions. For example, all heating elements can now be activated with a single button. The Laura voice assistant is also now much “smarter” thanks to the integration of the ChatGPT artificial intelligence software. 

  The new Enyaq features numerous state-of-the-art assistance systems. Among them is Travel Assist 2.6, which uses anonymised data collected by other VW vehicles on the same route. This supports the car’s lane-keeping function (Adaptive Lane Assist), even where road markings are incomplete, and helps with speed adjustments in turns. The new assistance functions also enable automatic longitudinal and perpendicular parking via the MyŠkoda app.

  Bidirectional charging

  The new Enyaq in 85 and 85x variants bring interesting V2H technology: bidirectional DC charging. This allows the car’s high-voltage battery to function as a household energy storage unit. With a suitable wallbox, which Škoda Auto is currently developing, users will be able to choose whether electricity flows into the car or, conversely, from the car into the home grid, depending on their needs. This flexibility allows them to respond to current tariffs or potential power outages.

• News from this year's first MMI

  The Škoda Museum hosted the first MMI management conference of 2025. Among the main topics were the pro-customer Human Touch approach, which the carmaker is also introducing internally, employee upskilling and the Think Big programme designed to integrate AI instruments into operations.

  Success Needs the Human Touch 

  MMI: The central theme of this year’s first management conference was customer orientation. This is the key to building on the success of 2024. 

  Thanking employees for their great work. That was a must at the MMI management conference held on 17 March at the Škoda Museum. Klaus Zellmer, CEO, expressed his appreciation to all attendees and encouraged them to build on the achievements of 2024, when Škoda Auto increased deliveries to customers by almost 7%, reaching 926,600 vehicles, and significantly improved all key financial indicators (see here). Maintaining this high level of performance will be a challenge, as the results are exceptional not only within the VW Group but also compared with other global carmakers. However, sales figures from the first few months of 2025 show that Škoda Auto is on the right track. 

  Together, we embody a winning mindset. Champions strive tirelessly to remain champions. Our journey requires precision, diligence and unwavering determination. Thank you for your dedication and hard work. Let us continue to be the ones who set the pace for change, not the ones who are swept along by it. I am counting on each of you to move forward into a future full of opportunity.

  Klaus Zellmer

  Škoda Auto CEO

  A central theme of the conference was the pro-customer Human Touch approach, which is now also being applied internally (see the March 2025 issue of Škoda Mobil). “Managers play a crucial role in the implementation and promotion of the Human Touch approach. They are expected to lead by example and actively adopt it in their daily work,” said Maren Gräf, Board Member for People & Culture.

  The High Performance Organisation 2.0 project was also introduced at MMI. It focuses on process optimisation, a redesigned hierarchy, agile management methods and the use of artificial intelligence and automation.

  Topics from individual areas

  Andreas Dick, Board Member for Production and Logistics, highlighted that the carmaker is working on its fourth battery assembly line in Hall M8, expected to be operational by 2026. Preparations are also underway for the GS3.2 evo line, which will produce even more advanced batteries. In addition, the construction of a new paint shop next to Hall M15 has been approved.

  In the People & Culture area, preparing employees for the future is a key task. Promoting digital skills and agile thinking is, therefore, essential. The goal is to reduce the number of employees in the indirect area to below 10,000 by 2028. The recruitment strategy, developed in cooperation with the KOVO Trade Union to prioritise internal mobility, has been adapted accordingly. 

  In Finance, IT and Legal Affairs, artificial intelligence has become the main driver, as Board Member Holger Peters pointed out. As a result, the carmaker has launched the AI Think Big programme. Newly established Digital Delivery Centres are playing a key role in introducing these tools across all areas.

  The Procurement area, led by Board Member Karsten Schnake, is betting on sustainability and resilience. Given the current geopolitical situation, rapid technological developments and shifting markets, it is crucial from a procurement perspective to foster an industrial environment that strengthens supply chain resilience while supporting efficiency gains. 

  Martin Jahn, Board Member for Sales and Marketing, noted that even stricter CO2 regulations will pose a major challenge. However, Škoda is well positioned thanks to its strong product portfolio, which includes combustion engine cars, electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids.

  For Technical Development, the MQBevo platform represents a demanding undertaking. Board Member Johannes Neft also stressed that improving employee skills is essential for the transformation so that Škoda Auto can take over development of the electric vehicle platform in the future.

  Event

  
  

• From the world / sop-india

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  New Kodiaq from India

  The second generation of Škoda’s largest SUV has also started production at the Indian plant, following its launch in Kvasiny last year.

  From the world

  
  

  After several years, the Škoda plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad) faced a major challenge with the launch of a completely new Škoda model. The original Kodiaq was replaced by a new generation. This transition involved, among other things, upgrading production technology, introducing new locally sourced parts and complying with the Government of India’s regulations through homologation and required certifications.

  The new Kodiaq features a brand-new electronic architecture and takes a different approach in many respects, especially regarding features and operational systems. As a result, our Indian colleagues had to undergo qualification training and attend workshops led by specialists from Mladá Boleslav and Kvasiny. They showed great flexibility and expertise in resolving ramp-up issues while drawing on their valuable experience from previous model launches. “Also thanks to the great support from our colleagues at the Czech plants, the ramp-up was smoother than expected,” says Veronika Fidranská, Project Manager, PAM – Launch Management Project MIDSIZE. 

  Challenging logistics

  In the pre-production phase, which lasted only eight months, the logistics teams at SAVWIPL (Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited) and Škoda Auto secured materials for 13 vehicles. These were used not only to verify the quality and readiness of production processes but also to test logistics procedures and the quality of parts packaging. 

  In the first half of 2024, the logistics for the launch were complicated by precarious security situation in the Red Sea. As a result, cargo ships had to re-route around Africa, which extended standard shipping times by three weeks. Nevertheless, Škoda Auto was able to adapt and start production on the planned date. 

  The production ramp-up ceremony in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar took place in the second half of February and was attended by management representatives from Mladá Boleslav. Their visit included a 300-km comparison drive with competing vehicles. The new-generation Kodiaq handled Indian traffic conditions very well.

  Info
  

  Local offer  

  Customers in this market can choose between the Selection and Sportline trim levels. In India, the model retains the popular 150 kW 2.0 TSI power unit, which has been optimised for the local climate and fuel quality. It also meets stringent emissions standards and delivers high performance and reliability.

• Digitalizace / app-fixtures

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  Digitalization

  The app that manages fixtures

  Assembly fixtures are essential for production. They ensure consistency and high precision in parts fitting. Previously, information about their setup was communicated using paper forms. However, Stanislav Vašíček and Tomáš Borek from the PFK-P – Pilot Hall Kvasiny team, which is responsible for the development, management and documentation of these fixtures, have introduced a more efficient solution. 

  The Fixtures app is a step towards a big data–driven future in automotive manufacturing. It lays a solid foundation for continued innovation and improvements across all areas of the production process.

  Petr Niebroj

  Head of PFK-P – Pilot Hall Kvasiny 

  They developed the Fixtures application, which improves data accessibility and helps to ensure both the stability and accuracy of component assembly. In the app, employees can find details about the number and setup of fixtures, a workflow inspection schedule and the monitoring of equipment wear. It also allows foremen to identify training needs more efficiently, thus contributing to employee development and raising the overall standard of production.

• When AI designs cars

  Johannes Neft reveals how artificial intelligence is influencing the technical development of cars. The basis for everything, he says, is good data preparation and the symbiosis of human knowledge and AI capabilities.

  Interview

  AI expands virtual development capabilities

  Johannes Neft: Technical Development is increasingly relying on artificial intelligence. These tools will make all processes more efficient and faster to enhance our competitiveness.

  Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are becoming part of everyday life, not just in conversations with chatbots but also in navigation apps, banking, social networks and even mobile phone cameras. With today’s ability to store vast amounts of data and the computing power to process it, AI offers tremendous potential. Škoda Auto wants to harness this potential across all areas, particularly in car development, as Johannes Neft, Board Member for Technical Development, confirms in an interview.

  The current AI boom brings both high expectations and concerns. What does the future of AI look like at Škoda Auto, which has long been based on an experienced team of people? 

  For us, using AI means complementing human skills and abilities with the new capabilities offered by machine learning. This applies not only to car development but also to our processes, and it involves making every employee’s work more efficient. It will change how we work and how we connect with our customers.

  The use of AI in car development marks a major step forward as it enhances not only efficiency but also the quality and safety of vehicles.

  How is the Technical Development team approaching the use of AI? 

  We believe the future lies in a fine-tuned combination of human expertise and artificial intelligence. The key to success is preparing high-quality data that can be efficiently processed by machines. This symbiosis between human insight and AI capabilities holds immense potential for developing even better, higher-quality cars and responding more flexibly to evolving customer needs. At the same time, it allows for faster product delivery to market. The use of AI represents a huge opportunity, and we can’t afford to miss it.

  What is the specific implementation of these technologies in your area?

  The ES/2 – Virtual Development, Virtual Testing, AI department is responsible for this process. It is involved in developing new simulation methods, converting physical tests into virtual ones, conducting advanced data analysis and developing and implementing AI applications. The department leads its own projects and, based on requests from various Technical Development teams, identifies opportunities where AI can save time, reduce costs or add value. It then searches for specific solutions, either with the help of in-house development in cooperation with the AI Competence Centre (part of FIT – IT Enterprise Architecture & Technology – ed.) or through partnerships within the VW Group.

  With whom specifically do you work in the VW Group? 

  We primarily work with the Brand Group Core and Volkswagen Group Innovation volume brands, where this synergy is gaining momentum. One example of an interesting Group collaboration is the AI Aided Design Platform, led by the Audi brand. This tool is used in car design, and our design experts also contribute to its development.  

  The carmaker is comprehensively addressing the deployment of AI Think Big tools, which set a goal of what to achieve by 2028. Which objectives does it include for Technical Development?

  These objectives focus mainly on digitisation and virtual development, which can shorten the timelines for completing new models. This includes building robust and connected database systems that will allow for the comprehensive use of AI. Last but not least, AI Think Big also means preparing for future challenges, such as the arrival of quantum computing.    

  Can you mention any specific projects where AI has already proved to be useful in Technical Development?

  AI is helping us to reduce the need for costly and often time-consuming physical car testing. We use it to optimise wheel aerodynamics and airbag deployment, among other applications. AI is essential in processing and analysing vast amounts of data. It replaces monotonous and repetitive tasks and can efficiently search through sources far beyond human capacity. For example, AI can analyse customer feedback and extract insights from dozens of documents in seconds. There are also numerous opportunities in powertrain development, where vast amounts of data are handled.

  How does AI help there? 

  We can use an AI model to uncover the sources of oscillations and abnormalities in the powertrain or to understand interactions within the oil system and then optimise it. In practice, this means we can reduce the number of test vehicles. We’ll know in advance which variations and settings are incompatible.

  Do you also use AI at work? Which tools have you tried and tested?

  I find Microsoft Copilot to be a useful AI tool at work. I’ve also tried our in-house ŠkodaGPT. 

  Info
  

  Johannes Neft was born and raised in Nuremberg, where he also studied Production Engineering. He earned his doctorate in fibre composites from the Technical University of Hamburg. He has been with the VW Group since 1999, including serving as head of the Exterior and Interior Development department at Volkswagen in Wolfsburg. In January 2021, he became a Škoda Auto Board member. 

• Téma / sop-vietnam – fotogalerie

  OK

  Production of the Kushaq was the first to begin, with the Slavia sedan to follow in the summer. 

  The plant was built in Quang Ninh province in the north of the country near the large port of Ha Long.

  The site also houses a polygon for testing cars.

  The opening ceremony was attended by representatives from Škoda Auto, local partner Thanh Cong Group and officials from the government and Quang Ninh province.

  The plant has a modern Paint Shop in addition to a Body Shop and Assembly facility.

  And great emphasis is placed on Quality control.

• Logistika / diskusni-forum - fotogalerie

  Diskuzního fóra logistiky se letos zúčastnili žáci SOUs již podesáté.

  Dva dny trávily jednotlivé týmy přímo ve firemních provozech. 

  Vyzkoušet si mohli například ruční řízení FTS vozíků.

  Ti, kteří mají řidičský průkaz, absolvovali zkoušku zručnosti v reálném vozíku.

  Ostatní žáci si mohli vyzkoušet zakládání materiálu.

  Vyhlášení vítězných týmů se konalo 20. března ve Škoda Muzeu za účasti zástupců Škoda Auto, SOUs, Odborů KOVO a dalších hostů.

• Výročí / 130-let--unor-3 – fotogalerie

  Upravená Škoda Popular vyjela v únoru 1935 do hor.

  Testovalo se, jak by mohla v horách sloužit četnictvu a finanční stráži, …

  … proto měl vůz na řízených kolech připevněny kovové lyže.

• Vzdělávání / spolupráce-VSB-TUO – fotogalerie

  Radek Ledecký (vlevo) je garantem projektu spolupráce s VŠB-TUO.

  Petr Rešl vnímá přínos spolupráce v přímém kontaktu se studenty – budoucími zaměstnanci.

  Iva Čelišová si s dvoudenním kurzem, který vedla na VŠB-TUO, poradila bravurně.

• Akce / mmi – fotogalerie

  The MMI conference took place at the Škoda Museum.

  Attendees were able to ask questions to the Board Members via a mobile app or live in the hall. 

  Klaus Zellmer, CEO, also answered questions.

• Oznámení / ergonomicka-ofenziva – fotogalerie

  Před: V hale M6, která se zaměřuje na výrobu baterií do elektromobilů, zaměstnanci v jednom úseku odebírali vyskladněný materiál v hlubokém předklonu.

  Po: Díky návrhu nahlášeného v Ergonomické ofenzivě zde dnes mají k dispozici zdvihací plošinu, u které si mohou nastavit požadovanou výšku odběru materiálu.

  Před: Druhé opatření pomohlo zaměstnancům v expediční centru dílů D10, kde dříve museli díly balit do různě velkých a těžkých fólií ručně.

  Po: Díky ergonomickému opatření zde dnes mají k dispozici zvedací vozík, který jim manipulaci s břemeny usnadňuje.

• Pravidla soutěže

  Pravidla soutěže ve ŠKODA Mobilu

  1. Pořadatel Soutěže

  Společnost Škoda Auto a.s., se sídlem tř. Václava Klementa 869, Mladá Boleslav II, 293 01 Mladá Boleslav, IČO: 00177041, zapsaná v obchodním rejstříku vedeném Městským soudem v Praze pod sp. zn. B 332 (dále jen „Pořadatel“), pořádá tuto čtenářskou soutěž (dále jen „Soutěž“), jejíž postup a podmínky upravují tato pravidla (dále jen „Pravidla“).

  2. Doba trvání soutěže

  Soutěž probíhá v době od 7. 2. do 28. 2. 2025 (dále jen „Doba soutěže“).

  3. Soutěžící

  Soutěže se může účastnit každý čtenář zaměstnaneckých novin Škoda Mobil, který v Době soutěže vyplní kvíz a své odpovědi zašle na e-mailovou adresu skoda.mobil@skoda-auto.cz (dále jen „Soutěžící“). Soutěžící se zavazuje uvádět v soutěžní registraci pouze pravdivé údaje.

  Soutěžící mladší 18 let se mohou Soutěže zúčastnit pouze se souhlasem svého zákonného zástupce, který je povinen se na žádost Pořadateli prokázat.

  Ze Soutěže jsou vyloučeni zaměstnanci útvaru GKU jako organizátora soutěže a osoby těmto osobám blízké podle § 22 zákona č. 89/2012 Sb., občanský zákoník, ve znění pozdějších předpisů.

  4. Princip Soutěže

  Úkolem soutěžícího je zaslat správné znění kvízu, které Pořadatel zveřejní v tištěné verzi zaměstnaneckých novin Škoda Mobil (vydání 2/2025), nebo v online verzi novin téhož vydání na webové adrese www.skodamobil.cz. Zodpovězením otázek se rozumí odeslání správných odpovědí na kvíz na e-mailovou adresu skoda.mobil@skoda-auto.cz. Každý soutěžící může odeslat své odpovědi za Dobu soutěže jen jednou. Ze správných odpovědí budou vylosováni 3 výherci (dále jen „Výherce“).

  5. Výhra v Soutěži

  Výhrou je následující cena:

  3x balíčky reklamních předmětů Škoda.
  

  6. Kontaktování Výherce a podmínky čerpání výhry

  Pořadatel bude Výherce informovat o výhře zejména telefonicky/písemně na kontaktní telefonní číslo / e-mailovou adresu, které Soutěžící uvedl v e-mailu se svými odpověďmi, a to nejpozději do 14 dnů od ukončení Soutěže. S Výhercem se Pořadatel následně dohodne na způsobu předání Výhry. Standardní způsob předání výhry je osobní předání. Podmínkou předání výhry je podpis předávacího protokolu nebo potvrzení o převzetí ze strany Výherce.

  Výhru není možné alternativně vyplatit v hotovosti ani v jiném plnění. Výhra není soudně vymahatelná. Poskytovatelem výhry je Pořadatel. Pořadatel nenese žádnou odpovědnost za jakákoliv rizika a závazky související s užíváním výhry. Pořadatel si rovněž vyhrazuje právo výměny výhry za výhru, která je odpovídající náhradou.

  V případě, že Výherce výhru nepřevezme osobně ve sjednaném termínu, ztrácí na výhru nárok a výhra propadne, aniž by Výherci vznikl nárok na jakoukoliv kompenzaci ze strany Pořadatele.

  7. Pravidla ochrany osobních údajů (v souladu s GDPR 2016/679)

  Vyplněním kvízu a vyluštěním osmisměrky a zasláním odpovědí na výše uvedenou e-mailovou adresu Soutěžící vědomě a dobrovolně souhlasí s Pravidly soutěže (viz tento dokument), což znamená:

  – zařazení do soutěže a příslušné evidence Soutěžících;

  – zasílání informačních e-mailů týkajících se této Soutěže;

  – případné zveřejnění jeho osobních údajů v rozsahu jméno a příjmení na výherní listině.

  Osobní údaje budou uchovávány pouze pro potřebu Soutěže a nebudou využívány k marketingovým účelům.

  Osobní údaje se zpracovávají po dobu od jejich poskytnutí v rámci Soutěže až do vyhlášení výsledků Soutěže, maximálně však na 1 rok od jejich poskytnutí. Osobní údaje jsou od Soutěžícího získávány na základě pravdivě vyplněného registračního e‑mailu (e-mail se správnými odpověďmi zaslaný na skoda.mobil@skoda-auto.cz). Osobní údaje Soutěžícího budou zpracovány ve výše uvedeném rozsahu v elektronické databázi správce osobních údajů, popř. zpracovatelem, se kterým správce osobních údajů (Pořadatel) uzavře příslušnou smlouvu.

  Požádá-li Soutěžící o informaci o zpracování svých osobních údajů, je mu správce a případně i zpracovatel povinen tuto informaci bez zbytečného odkladu předat. Každý Soutěžící, který zjistí nebo se domnívá, že správce provádí zpracování jeho osobních údajů, které je v rozporu s ochranou soukromého a osobního života Soutěžícího nebo v rozporu se zákonem, může požádat správce o vysvětlení nebo požadovat, aby správce odstranil takto vzniklý stav. Soutěžící má právo (omezení zpracování, oprava osobních údajů, doplnění nebo likvidace osobních údajů, podání stížnosti) se obracet na správce na: DPoffice@skoda-auto.cz.

  Kontakty:

  Pověřenec pro ochranu osobních údajů ve ŠKODA AUTO: DPO@skoda-auto.cz

  Úřad pro ochranu osobních údajů: www.uoou.cz.

  8. Ostatní ustanovení

  Pořadatel neodpovídá za přímé či nepřímé škody v souvislosti s účastí v Soutěži. Nebezpečí škody na výhře přechází na Výherce okamžikem předání výhry Výherci. Pořadatel není odpovědný za jakékoli technické problémy vzniklé při přenosu dat elektronickými prostředky.

  Pořadatel si vyhrazuje právo bez udání důvodu vyloučit Soutěžícího, jehož chování či jednání vykazuje známky nekalého či podvodného jednání. Osoby nesplňující podmínky účasti v Soutěži nebo jednající v rozporu s Pravidly Soutěže nebudou do Soutěže zařazeny. I pokud taková osoba splní některé podmínky pro získání výhry, např. v důsledku nepravdivých informací, které poskytla, nestává se Výhercem a nemá nárok na výhru. Výhra bude v takovém případě předána dalšímu Soutěžícímu v pořadí. Soutěžící bude vyloučen v případě, že Pořadatel zjistí nebo bude mít oprávněné podezření na spáchání podvodného nebo nekalého jednání ze strany některého ze Soutěžících či jiné osoby, která dopomohla danému Soutěžícímu k získání Výhry.

  Pořadatel si vyhrazuje právo i bez uvedení důvodů Dobu soutěže zkrátit, Soutěž přerušit nebo zrušit či změnit její Pravidla, a to i bez udělení výhry a bez poskytnutí náhrad. Pořadatel si rovněž vyhrazuje právo nahradit ohlášenou výhru předmětem podobného typu a odpovídající hodnoty a upravit podmínky předání výhry v případě, že výhra nebude poskytnuta způsobem umožňujícím předání výhry vítězům v souladu s těmito Pravidly.

  Pořadatel má právo konečného rozhodnutí ve všech záležitostech Soutěže včetně rozhodnutí o neudělení výhry v Soutěži a také si vyhrazuje právo konečného posouzení splnění či nesplnění podmínek stanovených pro získání výhry v Soutěži. Výhru nezískají ti Soutěžící, kteří nesplní byť jen okrajově či částečně stanovené podmínky pro získání výhry. Pořadatel tímto nepřebírá vůči Soutěžícím žádné jiné závazky, a tito nemají nárok na jakákoliv jiná plnění ze strany Pořadatele než uvedená v těchto Pravidlech.

  V případě, že dojde ke změnám podmínek a Pravidel Soutěže, bude toto učiněno písemně ve formě aktualizace těchto Pravidel. Aktuální verze těchto Pravidel je v plném znění dostupná na www.skodamobil.cz. Soutěžící nemá právo na náhradu nákladů spojených s účastí v Soutěži, a to ani v případě změny těchto Pravidel.

  Tato Pravidla jsou platná a účinná ode dne 7. 2. 2025.

• Diverzita / womens-day – fotogalerie

  „Mužský a ženský mozek se neliší,“ prezentoval psycholog Jan Vojtko.

  Stanoviště marketplace „Interní opravy v novém“ od PSZ – Centrálního technického servisu vzbudilo velký zájem.

  
  

  Ukázku, jak energizovat tělo i mozek, předvedla stážistka Dominika Kusáková.

  Útvar EY – Plánování a koordinace měl na marketplace stánek s názvem VR technologie Technického vývoje.

  „Téměř 91 % žen s dětmi se věnuje domácím pracím alespoň hodinu denně, zatímco mužů s dětmi jen okolo 30 %,“ prezentovala Dinah Richter-Spitzer.

  Roční výročí zde pomyslně oslavila zaměstnanecká skupina Women@Work prezentací svých aktivit.

  Třetího ročníku se zúčastnily ženy z celé Škoda Auto i z oblasti P – Výroba a logistika.

• Akce / enyaq-test – fotogalerie

  OK

  For the media presentation of the new Enyaq models, the carmaker chose the surroundings of the Lipno reservoir.

  The environment of the Bohemian Forrest foothill offered journalists a variety of terrains to test the cars.

  Of course, the Enyaq Coupé variant was also available to the participants...

  ... and also the Enyaq Coupé Sportline.

  The test drives also took the participants to the famous inn in Kbelnice near Strakonice.

  Workshops with representatives of the car company were also on the programme. For example, with Björn Kröll, Head of VP - Product Marketing. 

  Top model Denisa Dvořáková also tried out the new Enyaq in Lipno.

  Denisa Dvořáková enjoyed driving the car, trying it out on the way from Prague and on the closed circuit near Lipno.

  And she also loved the car's new colour, green Olibo. 

• VZOR – fotogalerie

  Studie VISION 7S představuje sedmimístné elektrické SUV s řadou neotřelých řešení.

  V říjnu vyrazil částečně funkční model vozu nejprve do Anglie, k vidění byl v Londýně u Tower Bridge a následně si ho na vlastní kůži vyzkoušeli novináři v Peterborough.

  Následovala také novinářská prezentace studie ve španělském přímořském letovisku Marbella.

  Kola mají průměr 22" a aerodynamické ráfky jsou téměř zcela uzavřené.

  Studie vozu VISION 7S zaujme jak celkovým vzhledem, tak řadou netradičních detailů.

  Interiéru dominuje velká otočná obrazovka s úhlopříčkou 14,6".

  Při ukázce vozu řada novinářů oceňovala jednoduché mechanické ovládání některých základních funkcí.

  Spíše designérskou libůstkou studie je oválný volant. Že by v běžných řadových vozech nahradil klasické kulaté totiž není příliš pravděpodobné.

  Co by to bylo za vůz ŠKODA bez Simply Clever prvků? V případě vozu VISION 7S jde například o magnetické úchyty na mobilní telefon.

  Studie vozu zdůrazňuje přístup ŠKODA AUTO k udržitelnosti. Podlaha a zavazadlový prostor jsou tak celé vyrobeny z materiálu z recyklovaných pneumatik.

• GreenFuture / den-země – fotogalerie

  Od 1. března se mohou obce, města, spolky i organizace zapojit do programu Škoda Stromky. 

  Jasoň červenooký se do Krkonoš vrátil díky výzvě Krakonošovy zahrádky.

  Do výsadeb nových stromků v okolí domovů se zapojují celé rodiny.

  Na Krásné louce vysadili škodováci více než 140 keřů a stromů, které zpevňují břeh Jizery.

• Výročí / 130-let--duben – fotogalerie

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

• Pomáháme / kosmonosy – fotogalerie

  Nadační fond Škoda Auto realizuje s městem Kosmonosy společný projekt revitalizace místního zámeckého parku.

  Úpravy se zaměřují na obnovu původních i doplnění moderních prvků.

  Nebude chybět ani sekce s bylinkami a lučním kvítím, a to s velkým důrazem na rozvoj biodiverzity.

  Přibudou lavičky a sedací plochy pod stromy, informační tabule i „smart“ osvětlení.

  Velkou přeměnou projde i dětské hřiště, které více herních prvků na rozšířené ploše.

• VZOR2 – fotogalerie

  Upřímně děkuji všem škodovákům, našim prodejcům a obchodním partnerům po celém světě za jejich vytrvalé úsilí. Jsou to oni, kdo umožnili dosáhnout takového výsledku za náročných podmínek a v rychle se měnícím tržním prostředí.
  

  Klaus Zellmer 

  Předseda představenstva

  V roce 2023 jsme dosáhli skvělých prodejních čísel s modelem Enyaq, který obsadil čtvrtou příčku mezi plně elektrickými vozidly v celé Evropě. Na našem největším trhu, v Německu, skončil dokonce třetí a v České republice i na Slovensku byl vůbec nejprodávanějším elektromobilem. 

  Martin Jahn

  Člen představenstva za oblast Prodeje a marketingu

  Naše hospodářské výsledky jsou důkazem toho, že úsporný program Next Level Efficiency+ a přijatá opatření mají požadovaný přínos. Takto posíleni pokračujeme v transformaci a investicích do elektromobility a digitalizace i přes volatilní trh a nejistotu v oblasti geopolitické situace.

  Holger Peters

  Člen představenstva za oblast Financí, IT a právních záležitostí

• Ze světa / kylaq-test – fotogalerie

  Novináři v Indii otestovali nové kompaktní vozy Škoda Kylaq.

  Akce se uskutečnila v indickém svazovém státě Goa a vozy se tak předvedly například u kostela svatého Kajetána…

  … nebo na pláži u Arabského moře. 

  Testující si pochvalovali, že novinka obstojí na různých tipech cest.

  Kylaq obsahuje prvky nového designového jazyka Modern Solid.

  I přes kompaktní rozměry nabízí dostatek prostoru na zavazadla.