Škoda Mobil

Škoda Mobil is the company newspaper for Škoda Auto employees, published monthly and presenting up-to-date information on what is happening at Škoda Auto and the Volkswagen Group. The regular columns focuses on employees, innovations and interesting projects from within the company, current information from Škoda Motorsport and many other topics.

11/2023

Škoda Mobil<br>November

  • Title

  • News

    289

    The Police of the Czech Republic will acquire this many Kodiaq cars by the end of the year.

    Kodiaq reports for police duty

    In mid-October, the first 50 Kodiaq cars from a large order for the Police of the Czech Republic were delivered at the polygon in Úhelnice, near Mladá Boleslav. The handover ceremony was attended by Vít Rakušan, the Czech Minister of the Interior and Deputy Prime Minister; Martin Vondrášek, Police President; Martin Jahn, Board Member for Sales and Marketing; and Tomáš Duchoň, Head of Sales at Škoda Auto’s Czech dealership. These Kodiaq cars have been specially modified for use by traffic and riot police. They are fitted with a newly developed special frame at the front and have undergone mandatory crash tests. Their chassis and powertrain are reinforced to ensure full functionality in poor driving conditions, and the interiors are modified to transport detainees. Of course, all-wheel drive is also included, which will be particularly useful during winter operations and to access harder-to-reach locations.

    Škoda Auto World

    Five million gearboxes from Vrchlabí

    Since the start of production in October 2012, Škoda Auto has produced 5 million DQ200 seven-speed direct-shift automatic transmissions. This sought-after component is also used in models from other VW Group brands. The gearboxes are produced at the Vrchlabí plant, which has a daily output of 2,300 units and operates seven days a week in 20 shifts to meet the strong demand. The annual capacity is approximately 690,000 gearboxes.

    Social and healthcare service cars

    Škoda Auto is dedicated to improving access to social care, even in more remote regions. In October, it provided eight Octavia sedans to organisations operating near the Kvasiny plant and three Octavia Combis to service providers in Vrchlabí. In September, five Fabia cars were also loaned to five organisations, mainly from Mladá Boleslav, as a free annual loan. These organisations span various sectors within social and healthcare services.

    Winter service campaign launch

    Owners of Škoda cars can take advantage of a promotional discount, enabling technicians from authorised service networks to carry out a thorough check of their vehicles before winter starts for a recommended price of CZK 349. This offer runs until the end of November. The check includes battery stress test, brake condition assessment, fluid level checks and tyre pressure measurements. Additionally, there is a discount of up to 30% on original parts.

    Enyaq cars for non-profits

    Škoda Auto has loaned 11 Enyaq and Enyaq Coupé RS electric cars to organisations primarily operating in the educational and social spheres. The three-month loan, extendable upon request, aims to foster sustainable mobility within these organisations, raise the level of services provided and simultaneously offer users first-hand experiences with fully electric cars.

    Škoda Auto has renewed its collaboration with two leading cultural institutions until 2026. Its partnership with the National Theatre has lasted 25 years, and 30 years with the Czech Philharmonic.

    ‘With a light foot’ and with the Enyaq

    Nearly five dozen crews took part in the 41st annual Economy Run competition on Saturday, 23 September. The 318-kilometre track started and finished at the Kosmonosy Service Training Centre. The winning crew was Petr Fiala and Ondřej Doležal in a Citigo G-TEC car with emissions of 61 g CO2 per km. Five Enyaq electric cars ranked in the Top 10. The best of them managed to cover the distance with a consumption of 12.26 kWh per 100 km, translating to an emission of 67 g CO2 per km based on the 2022 Czech energy mix. Similar emissions were achieved by the winning crews with cars powered by traditional fuels (diesel consumption 2.5 l/100 km and petrol 2.9 l/100 km).

    New Scala and Kamiq at current prices

    The upgraded Škoda compact cars introduced this summer now have a complete price list for the Czech market. Despite numerous improvements, prices remain unchanged. They start at CZK 459,900 for the Scala and CZK 479,900 for the Kamiq SUV in the Selection trim levels. There is significantly more equipment than before in three trim levels, four interior variants and a wide range of petrol engines. The full range can be viewed in detail in the configurator here.

    Škoda SUVs celebrate success. The carmaker recently produced its 3 millionth unit. 

    Kodiaq   841,000

    Karoq   705,000

    Yeti   684,000

    Kamiq   537,000

    Enyaq   166 000

    Kushaq   64,000

    Trekka   3,000

    3 million

    The number of SUVs Škoda Auto has produced to date.

    How they see us 

    Autosalon.tv

    Second-generation Kodiaq

    How did journalists like the new SUV (details on pages here)? It seems that the novelty hit the mark.

    (4 October 2023)

    More robust and more expensive appearance

    Sophisticated control with Smart Dials

    More legroom

    Electric roller shutter in the boot

    Handy storage compartments and contactless charging for two phones

    Summit on shopping collaboration

    BA – General Purchasing presented the Group’s brand collaboration in Central Europe at the Škoda Museum at the end of September. The first-ever summit of the Regional Sourcing Committee Central Europe (RSC CE), which the BA department has been entrusted with by the VW Group, took place there. The mission of the RSC CE is to harmonise purchasing strategies, suppliers and processes for enhanced transparency and financial efficiency.

    120

    The event attracted 120 representatives from 15 Group brands across the Czech, Slovak and Hungarian markets.

    On the network 

    Details of the new Kodiaq

    What sets the new Škoda SUV apart? That is the subject of another episode of the #ExploreŠkoda podcast recorded at the car’s premiere in Berlin. Guest František Drábek, Head of G2 – Product line Compact, Midsize, delves into some seldom-discussed details.

    News

  • Škoda debuts in Vietnam

    The entry into the Vietnamese market has become a reality. In September, the first Škoda dealerships in the country started selling Kodiaq and Karoq models imported from Kvasiny. At the same time, construction is progressing on a production facility in Vietnam, where Kushaq cars, imported from Pune, India, will be assembled as completely knocked-down (CKD) kits next year.

    Vietnam mission gets off to a brisk start

    On 25 September, Škoda Auto started selling cars at its first dealership in Hanoi. It has been importing the Kodiaq and Karoq models from Europe, but from next year, it will start car assembly directly in Vietnam.

    Škoda Auto’s plan to enter the Vietnamese market, announced a year ago, is now becoming a reality. In September, the carmaker’s first dealerships in Vietnam started offering Kodiaq and Karoq cars imported from Kvasiny. At the same time, construction of a production facility in Quang Ninh province is underway. Here, the Kushaq cars imported from Pune, India, will be assembled from completely knocked-down (CKD) kits starting next year.

    The launch in Vietnam was marked with a ceremony. It was attended by Škoda Auto officials led by Martin Jahn, Board Member for Sales and Marketing, and representatives of the Thanh Cong Group (TC Group), Škoda’s sales and manufacturing partner in Vietnam.

    Next steps 

    Škoda plans to open more showrooms across Vietnam. The dealer network is expected to comprise 20 dealerships in the next two years. In addition to the mentioned SUVs, the carmaker will also start importing the Octavia, Superb and, in the next phase, the electric Enyaq from Europe. However, the primary sales focus will be on cars assembled directly at the Vietnamese plant. “Our medium-term plan is to collaborate with around 30 local partners, assemble approximately 30,000 cars from CKD kits and aim for a sales figure of over 40,000 cars annually by 2030,” states Martin Jahn.

    Distant yet close market

    Vietnam is a strategic gateway for the carmaker into both the Southeast Asia and the broader Indian-Pacific regions. “We selected Vietnam for a number of reasons: strong ties between our countries, the significant Vietnamese community in the Czech Republic, the emerging automotive industry in Vietnam, the skilled workforce and the readiness of local companies to invest and cooperate,” says Daniel Vošvrda, Chief Operating Officer of Škoda Representative Office Vietnam. Moreover, many Vietnamese have studied or worked in the Czech Republic or have relatives here, so Czech brands are familiar to them.

    Vietnamese customers have specific tastes; for example, they prioritise features like air conditioning and electrically adjustable seats and pay a lot of attention to mobile phone connectivity. Traffic in cities is very dense, especially with mopeds, which are everywhere. Safety is a major concern, and models for this market, for example, come with Lane Keep Assist. You can read more details about the Vietnamese market in the Škoda Storyboard online magazine.

    Ondřej Černý

    Chief Representative Officer, Škoda Representative Office Vietnam

    The Vietnamese market offers vast potential for us, given the notable growth in car sales here in recent years. Locals are gradually transitioning from the massively popular mopeds to new cars, especially SUVs. To succeed, understanding the specific needs of Vietnamese customers is essential. They value personal contact with dealers, and for this reason, the dealerships have smaller branches, ideally in city centres, to be as close to them as possible. In addition, the customers usually want a car right away, so they choose from what the dealers have in stock.

    Info

    Paris of the East

    For its entry into the Vietnamese market, the Škoda brand selected the capital, Hanoi, which is the second-most populous city and located in the north of the country. Hanoi is a popular tourist destination, known for its historic buildings and broad tree-lined boulevards reminiscent of the French capital. However, districts with a traditional Vietnamese atmosphere and cuisine are equally captivating. Signature dishes, like pho noodle soup and grilled pork with bun cha noodles, are believed to have originated here.

    New colours for the first time

    On 25 September, Škoda Auto, in cooperation with local partner TC Group, inaugurated its dealership in Hanoi. This dealership is the first in the world to showcase the brand’s new corporate design. This redesign includes a modified logo, emerald and electric green colours and elements of the Modern Solid design language. Following the Hanoi location, three more dealerships were opened in central and southern Vietnam – in Vinh, Buon Ma Thuot and Ho Chi Minh City. Another branch in Hanoi is slated for launch by the end of the year.   

    From the world

  • World - Indie

    From the world

    Re-Charging India Strategy

    Members of the Board of Directors of Škoda Auto visited the plant in Pune, India.

    The Indian market, which Škoda Auto oversees within the VW Group, is key to entering Vietnam, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. This importance was highlighted during the Board’s October visit to the Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL) plant in Pune, which included Klaus Zellmer, Chairman of the Board of Directors. “We came here to learn as much as possible from our colleagues and support them. We had numerous opportunities to do so in discussions on production, supply chains, sales and market developments. After intensive testing of the all-electric Enyaq, we plan to export our electric flagship to India next year,” said Zellmer.

    It has been more than four years since SAVWIPL was established and started managing the Indian market. “We’ve achieved many successes but also faced challenges, and many more are still ahead. We’re ready to overcome them with the same courage and determination we’ve shown in the past,” said Piyush Arora, Managing Director of SAVWIPL (pictured with Klaus Zellmer). According to him, the current objective is to consolidate the model offering while focusing on opportunities in new segments, such as eMobility.

  • World - Puné

    From the world

    New Parts Expedition Centre in Pune

    The new facility will serve primarily for the preparation of the Kushaq and Slavia completely knocked-down kits (CKD) produced at the local plant.

    Another major step following the entry into the Vietnamese market is the opening of a logistics facility for knocked-down assembly kits of the Kushaq and Slavia models for export from India. These cars will be stored here before being loaded into crates and shipped via the port of Mumbai to Škoda Auto’s local partner in Vietnam, TC Group. There, they will be welded, painted and assembled in Quang Ninh province. Production is set to begin in the first half of 2024.

    16,000

    The new Parts Expedition Centre in Pune covers an area of over 16,000 m2.

    “We’ve taken an important step to effectively utilise the synergies between these strategically important markets. As we aim to supply our products to other emerging markets in the future, this new dispatch centre could also serve as a warehouse for the entire ASEAN (Southeast Asia – ed.) region,” said Andreas Dick, Board Member for Production and Logistics, who attended the opening ceremony of the logistics centre alongside Piyush Arora, Managing Director of Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited, and Mojmír Hájek, a Board Member of the company.

  • Holger Peters answers

    The new Board Member for Finance, IT and Legal Affairs, 55-year-old Holger Peters, shares his vision for the future of Škoda Auto in both financial management and the transition to digital technology. What surprised him in his first weeks at the carmaker? The speed at which issues are resolved, even in situations that might typically require several days elsewhere.

    Interview

    One of my best beginnings

    After 100 days: New Board Member for Finance, IT, and Legal Affairs, 55 year old Holger Peters, presents his vision for the Škoda Auto. And both in terms of financial management and the transition to digital technology.

    How were your first weeks at Škoda Auto?

    They were amazing for me from several angles. The first is the company culture - I have been told that the company has a positive working environment. I feel like I am part of a big family here. The team spirit is fantastic, everyone is open, friendly, and helpful. But at the same time, there is also a high level of professionalism. For example, everyone in the finance team is highly qualified. And I see the same level of professionalism and responsibility in other departments. Living in Prague and working in Mladá Boleslav has opened my eyes as well. In my spare time, I flip through a book about Kafka and try to explore all the corners he used to visit. So I have only positive experiences during my first long-term stay in the Czech Republic. Of all the countries I have lived in, it has been one of the best beginnings so far.

    Have you encountered any specifics in the Czech environment - is there anything that surprised or delighted you?

    I was surprised by the ability of the people here to solve problems flexibly. In my country, people often overcomplicate things when there is an unexpected deviation from the long-term plan. Here, the people show an impressive ability to improvise. When this approach is combined with the art of long-term planning, which I know well from my previous post, it creates a powerful synergy. In addition to the work environment, I have had the opportunity to slowly get to know the natural beauty of the country. For example, also thanks to the fact that we organized a workshop and teambuilding event next to the Sněžka Mountain.

    It is remarkable how quickly things are resolved here, even in situations where elsewhere a matter would be debated at length and a way out sought for days.

    One of the first steps was to change the name of Area F, for which you are responsible, to Finance, IT, and Legal Affairs. What prompted you to do this?

    In many other Group companies only the finance and IT departments are grouped together. At Škoda Auto, the structure is somewhat different and more similar to what we see at Audi, for example. So I wished the name to accurately describe all the key areas we work on in Area F. It also aligns us with industry practice.

    In finance, there has been a lot of talk recently about cutting costs and ambitiously increasing sales profitability. How do you think Škoda Auto is managing to meet these targets? What steps should be taken in this respect in the future?

    Škoda Auto is on a promising path when it comes to managing costs and increasing profitability. The carmaker is consistently focusing on efficiency and on getting leaner. At the same time, the strategic shift towards electric vehicles is the important step. Internal combustion engines will remain an integral part of our portfolio for a long time to come, but given the need for long-term competetivness, the strategy is expanding specifically towards electric vehicles. In view of these technological changes, one of our most pressing tasks is to reduce costs, particularly in the area of batteries. We are currently coordinating our efforts with other VW Group companies in this regard and are looking for suitable ways forward.

    Can we expect even more pressure to reduce costs in the future? Employees are primarily interested in how this will ultimately affect them directly.

    When I look at the current situation and also at the future, I have to be honest and say that yes, the pressure to cut costs will be even greater. We have moved from one crisis to another - from Covid-19 to semiconductors - and we can expect more challenging conditions in the market. In addition, we are in a transition process where we have to invest in two technologies, which adds another financial burden. The objective is to remain as lean as possible and to continue to slim down, if possible. In particular, we are investing in IT, artificial intelligence, and robotics to improve processes and increase efficiency. In general, we will carefully align all relevant steps with KOVO Trade Union and will try to exploit the opportunities out of our demographic curve and natural turnover with high priority.

    In your opinion, how prepared is Škoda Auto for the transformation of the automotive industry in terms of financial management, digitalisation of processes, etc.? Where is there room for improvement?

    In my experience with various companies such as Porsche, Volkswagen Financial Services, and Europcar, Škoda Auto is well ahead in a number of areas. As I can compare the areas, I am responsible for best, let me give you some examples for F area. Especially strong are its controlling, accounting/tax and treasury functions, IT strategy as well as operations and digitization initiatives in all areas. For example the level of digitization in the legal area impressed me. Having said that, I also see benchmark performances in many other functional areas. One area where Škoda Auto has already successfully started good initiatives needs even more attention. I am talking about the development of new markets in the Asian Pacific and Middle East Regions as well as the development of the Indian market. We need to reduce our dependency from the European region and need to grow with competitive products in the stated markets. In this context,  leveraging synergies within the VW Group will be key to success.

    Is there anything you would like to say to our readers?

    One thing is important to me: after 100 days, I feel at home here. It is somehow even better than my time in China and the UK. I like the working culture here, the working environment is pleasant, and the team is supportive. I can imagine working here for a longer period of time and contributing to the transformation of Škoda Auto as best I can. My brother, who works in the theatre and is a literature enthusiast, has given me a lot of stimulating reading. I enjoy following in the footsteps of iconic figures such as Franz Kafka and Max Brod, seeing this beautiful country through their eyes and comparing it with my own contemporary view. It has been an exciting adventure so far and I am very much looking forward to what is to come in the days, weeks, and hopefully years to come.

    Zásady bezpečného pohybu na sociálních sítích

    1 Využívejte dvoufaktorové ověřování, pro hesla používejte dlouhé fráze.

    2 S nikým nesdílejte své přístupové údaje ani je neposílejte e‑mailem.

    3 Nepoužívejte své účty na nedůvěryhodných či cizích zařízeních. 

    4 Nenastavujte si automatické přihlašování na sdílených domácích zařízeních.

    5 Při vytváření soukromých profilů na sociálních sítích nepoužívejte firemní přihlašovací údaje.

    6 Omezte množství zveřejňovaných osobních údajů.

    7 Odstraňte údaje o poloze ze všech obrázků před jejich zveřejněním či sdílením prostřednictvím aplikací pro zasílání zpráv.

    8 Neotevírejte neznámé přílohy a odkazy zaslané prostřednictvím sociálních médií.

    9 Raději se vyhněte přijímání žádostí od neznámých osob.

    10 Respektujte etický kodex Škoda Auto a ujistěte se, že nesdílíte interní a citlivé firemní informace.

  • Week for sustainability

    The third annual GreenWeek event was held from 18 to 22 September. The aim was to consider sustainability not only in terms of the automotive industry and its evolution but more importantly. from the perspective of ordinary people. It is an overall approach to life, development and consumption that attempts to reduce negative impacts on the environment, society and the economy.

    GreenFuture

    GreenWeek 2023

    A week devoted to sustainability.

    Live talks and lectures, film screenings, book and clothing swaps or donations and interactive exhibitions on eco-labelling, water management and living without unnecessary waste. On 16 September, volunteers walked from the parking house at Česana to the new footbridge over the Jizera River, and then back to the Three Emperors Park to clean up. This marked the third annual GreenWeek event from 18 to 22 September for Škoda Auto employees. The focus was not just on the automotive industry’s sustainability and its further development but above all on regular people’s perspective. It is an overall approach to life, development and consumption that seeks to minimise negative impacts on the environment, society and the economy. With contributions from Škoda Auto employees and external guests, sustainability was showcased as an opportunity for both current and future generations. Let’s take a look at the different blocks of GreenWeek. 

    33

    Lecturers from the ranks of Škoda Auto employees and guests

    26

    Lectures and interviews

    Monday, 18 September

    Sustainability not only in the automotive industry

    GreenWeek opened with an introduction by Chairman of the Board of Directors Klaus Zellmer, followed by Jan Hoffman, Head of PS – Brand Management, who gave an insight into sustainability in manufacturing and the topics that this area has been addressing for a long time, such as energy consumption, CO2 emissions, landfill waste, water consumption and VOC emissions per car. Eva Jaderná from Škoda Auto University then presented sustainability from an academic perspective. The session concluded with a presentation by colleagues from the GSC – Corporate Strategy and Innovation Management department on the sustainability strategy and the new Sustainability Report for 2021–22. The last contribution was from Veronika Klofcová, the expert coordinator of sustainable materials communication of the Procurement area, who presented an English-language info site on sustainability (more in the August 2023 issue of Škoda Mobil).

    15

    Hours of live streaming

    6

    Video reports

    Tuesday, 19 September

    10 Years of the GreenFuture strategy

    The second day was dedicated to the 10th anniversary of the GreenFuture strategy, which we presented in the October 2023 issue of Škoda Mobil. Colleagues representing its pillars – GreenProduct, GreenFactory and GreenRetail – first recalled the most important activities and experiences from its 10-year history and then introduced the audience to current projects within the product, production, logistics and sales network. Next, the catering specialists from Škoda Auto and Aramark took the floor. They not only looked back at the REbox and Journey to the Plate projects but also presented a new traffic light that complements the existing calorie charts. Incidentally, it was Aramark that prepared the cauliflower GreenWeek menu for the entire week. The topic was rounded off by Safiatou Camara, Member of the Board´s Assistant for Procurement, who introduced the concept of Škoda Auto’s Curiosity Fuel coffee (see the October 2023 issue of Škoda Mobil).

    Wednesday events at the Škoda Museum

    This year, there was a new interactive afternoon programme at the Škoda Museum for schools and the public. Visitors could see and try out the five functional modules of the Way of Water exhibition with lecturers, visit educational booths on eco-labelling and living without unnecessary waste or discuss the book “Climate is an Opportunity” with Petr Daniš. For the second time, everyone could bring or choose something at the book and clothing swap and give items a second life.

    Wednesday, 20 September

    Sustainability for every day

    The morning live stream began with an interview with Petr Daniš, director of the TEREZA education centre, which creates environmental education programmes. Ondřej Rychetský and Kateřina Kohoutová from the H2ospodař! initiative introduced the Way of Water exhibition. Jana Vaníčková from the Zerowasters non-profit organisation introduced the topic of zero waste. After their presentations, it was clear to everyone that shopping today can be quite a challenge for the average consumer, so the issue of eco-labelling of goods was explained by Klára Krasnická from the Czech Environmental Information Agency (CENIA). The afternoon was followed by an interactive programme for the general public at the Škoda Museum. The day ended with a screening of the Unique Bohemian Paradise documentary by Zdeněk Mrkáček, followed by a discussion.

    4

    Interactive educational displays

    2

    Author talks

    Thursday, 21 September

    Sustainability in our region

    The unifying theme of the contributions on the fourth day was the idea that only through sustainable management of the region can we better adapt to climate change. The year 2023 marks 30 years since the establishment of the independent Czech Republic, and to mark the occasion, CENIA prepared an interactive story map presented by its director, Miroslav Havránek. The Krkonoše National Park celebrated its 60th anniversary. Its director, Robin Böhnisch, reflected on the longstanding cooperation with Škoda Auto and highlighted initiatives like the Škoda Trees project. Their planting and subsequent care are overseen by the Partnership Foundation, and its director, Petr Kazda, outlined the foundation’s other activities. In alignment with GreenWeek’s emphasis that sustainability is also about action in the biodiversity field, a new insect hotel was installed in the garden of the Na Karmeli Education Centre.

    2

    Eco-films

    1

    Book and clothing swap

    Friday, 22 September

    Sustainability and ESG in practice

    Environment, social responsibility and governance are included in sustainability and corporate social responsibility assessments and investment projects. Examples of good practice were presented by Veronika Doubnerová, who works as a consultant in this field. Although ESG reporting is a prevalent topic, many people still associate sustainability primarily with ecology, waste sorting or alternative energy sources. “Together, we should focus on how to live better, whether that means a balance between work and personal life or healthy eating,” concluded Ladislav Kučera, Director of the Škoda Auto Foundation, on the last day. Alongside Jakub Jedlinský, SR – External Affairs Specialist, he invited everyone to this year’s first Social Week.

    Tip

    All employees can access the GreenWeek page on Škoda Space, where they can find a summary of past years, including links to entries in the Media Library. However, if you need further information or have a tip for the fourth year of GreenWeek, please send an e-mail.

  • GreenFuture / Prevence

    GreenFuture

    Prevention that makes sense

    Since 1992, 17 October has been recognised as World Injury Day. The United Nations instituted it to heighten awareness of dangerous situations that can occur at work. Škoda Auto pays great attention to injury prevention. It constantly draws attention to risks that can endanger the health of employees but also to mistakes that can lead to injury. Thanks to the emphasis on preventive activities in the field of occupational safety and health and ergonomics, the carmaker has also succeeded in gradually reducing the number of accidents at work.  

    Did you know that the origins of occupational safety and health trace back to the 18th century BC?

    Last year, Škoda Auto reported its lowest accident rate ever: 35 accidents resulting in incapacity for work, 11 fewer than in 2021 (see the chart). Another positive factor is the decline in days missed after an injury at work, which suggests lesser severity. Škoda Auto has long met the injury thresholds in Index 1, which is the number of work-related injuries resulting in incapacity for work per million hours worked. In 2022, we surpassed the 1.3 injury benchmark with a score of 0.7. This excellent outcome is mainly due to the responsible behaviour of all employees, as they help to reduce the number of injuries even in areas where other safety measures might not be feasible.

    Number of work-related accidents resulting in incapacity for work: 2012–2022

    2012   48

     

    2013   58

     

    2014   53

     

    2015   42

     

    2016   58

     

    2017   68

     

    2018   78

     

    2019   75

     

    2020   71

     

    2021   46

     

    2022   35

     

  • Premiere / Kodiaq

    Premiere

    Completely new flagship SUV  

    The second-generation Kodiaq takes sustainability and efficiency to the next level. At the same time, it introduces a host of features that enhance the car’s appeal and the comfort of both driver and passengers.

    What makes the new Kodiaq stand out? Beyond the car’s dynamic appearance and added spaciousness thanks to its extended length (over 6 centimetres more), it also boasts a range of new exterior and interior features, alongside new powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid version. Below are some of the most interesting ones.

    Design

    The new Kodiaq adopts the first elements of the Modern Solid design language. The horizontal light stripe on the radiator grille, for example, echoes the successful Crystal Face feature on the Enyaq. The updated Škoda lettering, in line with the brand’s new corporate identity, is prominent on the car’s robust rear. Another distinctive feature is the elements in the unique shade of Dark Chrome, such as the new Škoda logo on the bonnet and the fully lined D-pillar.

    For the first time, the new DCC Plus adaptive chassis offers two independently controlled valves, distinguishing the rebound and compression suspension.  

    Engines

    For the first time, the Škoda brand’s largest SUV comes in a plug-in hybrid version. Powered by a 1.5 TSI engine and paired with an electric motor, it delivers a maximum system output of 150 kW. The battery provides a purely electric range of more than 100 km and a 50 kW charging capacity at DC fast-charging points. Also available are 2-litre diesel engines in both two- and four-wheel-drive versions, as well as two petrol engines – a 2.0 TSI with 4×4 drive and a mild-hybrid 1.5 TSI with two-wheel drive.  

    Lights 

    New to this model are second-generation Matrix-LED headlights, which feature half as many light segments but provide 15% more light output. Their design maintains the ‘four-eyed’ headlight alignment typical of Škoda SUVs, decorated with a Crystallinium element reminiscent of coloured crystal glass. The rear lights utilise Top LED technology and include animated direction indicators and a chrome trim. A distinctive feature is the reflective red strip connecting the rear lights across the full width of the fifth door.

    910

    Boot capacity has been increased by 75 litres to 910 litres in the five-seat version.

    14

    Fourteen speakers ensure a top-notch music experience for passengers.

    9

    Customers can choose from seven metallic and two non-metallic shades. 

    Interior 

    The Kodiaq introduces an all-new interior concept with a new set of controls. The three innovative rotary and push-button multi-function Smart Dials with integrated displays have already garnered very positive reactions. They can adjust the car’s temperature but can also be set for a range of other functions and are paired with four additional hardware buttons. The standalone infotainment screen with a diagonal of up to 13 inches also ensures easy operation, and a new feature in this model series is the head-up display that complements the virtual cockpit. The redesigned centre console offers interesting options, providing plenty of space by moving the gear selector to the steering column. For example, there is fast 15W wireless charging with active cooling and a cleverly positioned display cleaner. Customers can choose from four interior designs and treatments, like with the Enyaq. A range of sustainable materials made from natural or recycled sources have also been integrated into the interior.

    Safety

    New to the second generation is a range of assistance systems, such as a turning assistant, which warns and, if necessary, brakes automatically if an oncoming car approaches when turning left. Another new feature is automatic remote parking, which can accommodate both perpendicular and parallel parking spaces. Several existing assistants have received upgrades. Up to nine airbags help to protect passengers.

    Sportline

    The Sportline version is the first derivative in the range. Its exterior is characterised by various features in gloss black, including the D-pillar. By contrast, the front and rear bumpers and side sills are body-coloured. The interior boasts sports seats with integrated head restraints and black upholstery with grey contrast stitching. The headliner, dashboard, door panels and armrest also follow the black theme. 

    Info

    Kodiaq and Superb supplement

    Before the end of the year, you can look forward to a special Škoda Mobil supplement that will feature in-depth information about the new Kodiaq and Superb generations. Your colleagues will also give you an insight into the development of the cars, their new features and their deployment in production. 

  • New Kodiaq unveiled

    The second-generation Kodiaq, which takes sustainability and efficiency to the next level, was officially launched in Berlin. It introduces a host of features that enhance the car’s appeal and the comfort of both driver and passengers. Beyond the car’s dynamic look and increased spaciousness thanks to the extended length, there are numerous improvements to the exterior and interior.

    Premiere 

    Show in the Berlin Underground

    For the premiere of the new-generation Kodiaq, the Škoda brand chose the exclusive setting of the blinded underground tunnel beneath Potsdamer Platz in the centre of the German capital. 

    The unveiling of the new generation of the Škoda brand’s largest SUV took place on 4 October and was attended by media representatives from around the world. For this event, the carmaker bet on Berlin, Germany, a key foreign market that proudly boasts a bear as its emblem. Once again, it was a safe bet that was extremely successful. The event culminated in the spectacular arrival of the new cars in a tunnel several hundred metres long, bustling with guests. Klaus Zellmer, Chairman of the Board of Directors, introduced the new car. “Our new flagship SUV has everything needed to be a worthy successor in the Kodiaq model range. It takes the features of Škoda cars that our customers appreciate to the next level, offering more space, equipment and features, as well as greater fuel efficiency,” emphasised Zellmer. He was joined by Martin Jahn, Board Member for Sales and Marketing, and Johanes Neft, Board Member for Technical Development.

    300

    Around 300 media representatives from many countries attended the premiere of the new-generation Kodiaq.

    500,000

    YouTube influencer videos were released right after the premiere. It had half a million views after just 12 hours.

    The world premiere of the Kodiaq received four times more publicity than the summer covered drive.

    Four months of preparation went into the four-hour event. The main challenge was getting six cars into the underground space of the blinded tunnel, which is only accessible by a staircase. “We had to put transport skids across the stairs, and we lowered the models down them using the winch of the tow truck,” shared Petr Kavrentzis from GKP – Product communications, who was responsible for transporting the cars. Given that the stairs lead from a busy square, it was crucial to keep the cars covered with tarpaulins throughout.

    Tip

    Chairman of the Board of Directors, Klaus Zellmer, will showcase what the new Kodiaq looks like and the environment of its premiere in the next video in the Klaus Drives series. You can watch it in the online version of Škoda Mobil. 

    Even after overcoming the stairs, it was not easy; the cars often had to squeeze through quite narrow spaces. Their entrance was quite challenging for the drivers. “For the sake of the dramaturgy of the whole premiere and the final effect, of course, we drove in the dark with spectacular lights flashing,” Kavrentzis noted. The fact that there were six cars at the premiere meant that everyone could examine them thoroughly and ask questions of the carmaker’s experts.

    Bohumil Vrhel

    Head of G2G – PL complete car Compact

    It is clear that the location and overall concept were well chosen. There was ample space around the cars so that journalists could work on their stories, take videos, photos, interviews etc. And I’m very pleased to see that the new Kodiaq is receiving positive feedback, interest and even enthusiasm, especially regarding its interior.

    Nikola Hrbková

    VMS/1 Coordinator – Brand and Product Communication

    I’m glad that Škoda Auto adheres to a unified brand strategy that we all respect. All communication revolves around curiosity and discovery, and when someone speaks on behalf of Škoda, they truly represent the brand’s unified language.

    Pavel Hofman

    FIO/5 – Client & User Support

    I already liked the first generation, especially the RS version. I’m eager to see it in the new generation. I was intrigued by the taillights, especially the design element spanning the width of the rear door. The dark chrome D-pillar is also cool. 

    Stanislav Kolman

    Garáž.cz editor

    My colleagues and I felt that after a long time, this was a very successful automotive event. It reminded us of the golden days of the Geneva Motor Show, where the car was the main attraction. There were a lot of people there, a great atmosphere, and everyone enjoyed it. For various reasons, we haven’t really experienced that at many recent car events. 

    Recommendation 

    1.3 km long art

    Following in the Kodiaq‘s footsteps and visiting Berlin is relatively easy, you can be there in a few hours from the Czech Republic. And what to visit here? Try the famous East Side Gallery in the open air. Located on the banks of the River Spree in the Friedrichshain district, it is, at 1,316 metres, the longest continuous section of the Berlin Wall still standing. After the fall of the Wall, 118 artists from 21 countries began painting the East Side Gallery and on 28 September 1990 it was officially opened as an open-air gallery, which is now a listed building. It can be found along Mühlenstraße.

  • Force Program

    Force Program

    Key steps for the future

    Cost structure optimisation and the efficient introduction of new technologies help to transform production and contribute to the development of a digital infrastructure that is key to the automotive industry’s future.

    Measures for cost stability

    This year, production costs are continuing to rise. With the increase in fuel (and, therefore, transport) prices, wages grow, and high inflation has an impact on other expenses. At the same time, the new car market shows signs of slowing, and falling demand affects production. Given the financial targets set by the VW Group, it is essential to identify measures to counteract this trend. “The estimated contribution of all the measures under the F5 – Competitive Cost Structure action area is roughly EUR 50 million for this year. For this, a big thank you goes to our colleagues in Production and Logistics, especially for their fiscal discipline and their consistent, creative approach to cost optimisation,” adds Jakub Rada, expert guarantor of the F5 action field.

    EUR 50 million   

    This is roughly the total contribution from all measures taken in the F5 action field this year. 

    Cost-saving measures

    Škoda Auto is rolling out the Gemeinkostenprogramme to streamline overhead and indirect personnel costs throughout the company. “As part of the programme, we’ve introduced so-called zero-based budgets for 2024’s production overheads. For manufacturing, this means that, in cooperation with controlling, it examines the need for overheads like cleaning, maintenance, spare parts and others and strives to optimise them,” explains Rada regarding one such initiative. Another cost-saving measure comes from the PL – Brand Logistics department, where the Cost Leadership programme has been running for several years. Here, logistics specialists identify potential transport cost savings, both by optimising existing processes and often by using new data analysis systems. Last year, this programme led to EUR 14/car reduction in logistics costs, representing total savings of around EUR 12 million.

    As absolute costs are rising and the number of cars produced is decreasing, there is an inevitable uptick in the cost per car produced. This is a closely monitored indicator.

    Jakub Rada

    Expert coordinator of controlling overheads and start-up costs, FCP – Controlling of Production and Logistics

    Correction of the inner sidewall welding device during the ramp-up of the second generation Kodiaq

    Intensive preparations for the new electric car

    A hot topic in the production ramp-up is the new UNECE guidelines. These guidelines define the standards for protecting cars against cyberattacks and impose demanding requirements on both the production and software of current and upcoming cars. “For the new ramp-ups, we’re wrapping up the verification series for the fourth-generation Superb and have just started this phase for the second-generation Kodiaq. Still, the future is linked to full electrification, and therefore, we’re intensively preparing for the pre-series stage of the new electric car by using insights from the Enyaq and Enyaq Coupé ramp-ups,” says David Šenkýř from the PAX department, which is responsible for the F6 – Challenges for New Ramp-Ups action field.

    This ramp-up posed a major challenge, especially for the preparation and production of the pre-production test cars being introduced to the 18-shift operation in Kvasiny. In practice, it is like trying to change a fender on a car that is moving at full speed without the ability to stop. To meet this challenge, the carmaker had to invest EUR 3.8 million. Short-term needs included increasing the capacity of technical assistance with additional staff and enhancing the measurement and testing of the dimensionality and strength of individual parts, bodies and whole cars. “To achieve the dimensioning and auditing targets at various pre-series stages, we had to split the production of pre-series bodies and cars between the pilot hall and the production hall. This allowed for effective optimisation loops in production, especially in the welding shop,” explains Šenkýř. “The result was the delivery of the required numbers of pre-series cars for driving and development tests on schedule without any limitations on series production. This alone improved the carmaker’s economic results by more than EUR 100 million,” adds Šenkýř.

    We produce pre-series cars to optimise production, and we optimise so that we can produce pre-series cars.

    David Šenkýř

    Projects A0 SUV INDIA 2.0, PAX – Launch Management Special Projects

  • 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 29. 9. 2023 do 16. 10. 2023 (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 zodpovědět otázky v kvízu, který Pořadatel zveřejní v tištěné verzi zaměstnaneckých novin Škoda Mobil (vydání Říjen 2023), nebo v online verzi novin téhož vydání na webové adrese www.skodamobil.cz. Zodpovězením otázek se rozumí odeslání odpovědí na kvízové otázky 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 i 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 útvar 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 29. 09. 2023.

  • Kodiaq / Premiera – fotogalerie

  • Benefity – fotogalerie

  • Soutěž – fotogalerie

  • Výročí – fotogalerie

  • Reportáž – fotogalerie

  • VZOR – fotogalerie

  • Okem zrcadlovky – fotogalerie

  • Ze světa – fotogalerie

  • Reportaz / Technicky vyvoj – fotogalerie

  • GreenFuture – fotogalerie

  • Reportaz / Jizera – fotogalerie

  • Škodováci – fotogalerie

  • Srdcovka – fotogalerie

  • Premiera  – fotogalerie

  • Motorsport – fotogalerie

  • Téma – fotogalerie

  • Novinky – fotogalerie

  • Téma / Slévárna – fotogalerie

  • Téma / Kovárna – fotogalerie

  • Téma / Setkani – fotogalerie

Škoda Weekly

Weekly Thursday newsletter for employees. A summary of the last week‘s main events at Škoda Auto, regional news as well as cultural events.

Skoda Supplements

Škoda Mobil, the employee newspaper of the Mladá Boleslav-based carmaker, includes special supplements that focus on especially important topics from Škoda's perspective. Supplements can be a part of the newspaper, in the same format as the newspaper, inserted, for example, in the form of a flyer, or they can be stand-alone unique magazines in a specific format, such as supplements dedicated to new models, the brand's historical anniversaries, or other important information from the company's environment.

Škoda GreenFuture

Green Future

Škoda Mobil