Skoda celebrates as they produce the 6 millionth Octavia, from 1951 to today.http://farm1.static.flickr.com/31/50690259_ff66d84dec.jpg

• Jubilee vehicle ran off production line at company headquarters in Mladá Boleslav
• The first OCTAVIAs date back to 1959
• The ŠKODA OCTAVIA has been the Czech brand’s foundation for success since 1996
• Extensively upgraded third generation model available since February 2017

ŠKODA has produced the six millionth OCTAVIA. The jubilee vehicle ran off the production line at the company’s headquarters in Mladá Boleslav today. Since its launch in 1996, the ŠKODA OCTAVIA has become a global sales hit and today is the traditional Czech company’s bestseller. The beginnings of the popular series dates back to 1959.

“No other model has run off ŠKODA’s production lines more often than the OCTAVIA,” says Michael Oeljeklaus, ŠKODA Board Member for Production and Logistics. “It is the heart of our brand and represents the high performance of ŠKODA production and logistics. The OCTAVIA has made a significant contribution to ŠKODA’s rise on the global markets.”

The ŠKODA OCTAVIA exemplifies the brand's success over the past two decades. It was the first newly developed ŠKODA model following the fall of the Iron Curtain and after joining forces with the Volkswagen Group. Its introduction provided the impetus for ŠKODA's rise to becoming a global company, which has now successfully established itself among the large volume brands.

First OCTAVIA and its forebear

The launch of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA took place in autumn 1996 at the 'Mondial de l'Automobile' in Paris. The then new notchback saloon in the upper compact class featured modern technology and was very high quality and excellent value for money. With its ample space, the OCTAVIA set new standards in its segment right from the start. In addition, the car designed by former ŠKODA Chief Designer Dirk van Braeckel impressed buyers with a timeless design. A striking appearance with a large radiator grille enlivened the street scene of the 1990s.

In searching for a name for the new model, ŠKODA looked back to its model history. Between 1959 and 1971, the manufacturer built a vehicle called OCTAVIA, which mobilised the masses, offering lots of space and modern technology for the time. The name OCTAVIA comes from the Latin word for the number eight: 'Octo'.

The historical OCTAVIA was the traditional Czech brand’s eighth model after the Second World War, following the POPULAR variants 420, 995, 995 OHV and 110 OHV, as well as the ŠKODA 1101, 1200 and 400. In 1961 an estate version was launched on the market. In 22 years of production, ŠKODA built 365,400 vehicles in the popular series.

The OCTAVIA of the ‘modern era’ set the bar considerably higher. In 1997 ŠKODA produced 61,000 OCTAVIAs, one year later the production number had almost doubled to over 117,500 units.

The ŠKODA OCTAVIA COMBI, which also stimulated demand, followed in 1998. In 2010, the last of 1,442,100 OCTAVIAs of the first generation rolled off the line at the Vrchlabí plant.

ŠKODA launched global production with the OCTAVIA II

The successor, first introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2004, continued the triumphant success of its predecessor. The OCTAVIA II had a fresh design, more space in the interior and boot, as well as state-of-the-art technology. Also, petrol engines with direct injection celebrated their premiere in the new generation. Added to this there were new six-speed manual gearboxes and automatic gearboxes - including the DSG transmission. Driving comfort increased thanks to a new multi-link rear axle. The enhanced safety features included ABS with braking assistant as series standard in Europe, four airbags and new active headrests.

With the second-generation OCTAVIA, the Czech manufacturer also stepped up its internationalisation strategy. The production of the OCTAVIA began at the Indian plant Aurangabad in 2005. The Shanghai Volkswagen plant has been building the OCTAVIA for China since 2007. And since 2009, the OCTAVIA has been produced at the Russian Volkswagen plant in Kaluga. The third OCTAVIA generation celebrated its premiere in 2012. Just one year later, production of the brand's bestseller also commenced in Ukraine and Kazakhstan.

With the extensively revised version of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA released in February 2017, the brand intends to continue the success story of its predecessors and further strengthen ŠKODA's position in the international markets. The current ŠKODA OCTAVIA looks more dynamic than ever thanks to the newly designed front and rear sections, harmonious lines and wider track. The new version of the compact model convinces with proven strengths and sets standards in terms of space, functionality, safety and comfort technology, as well as value for money in its segment. In addition, the new generation is the first OCTAVIA to feature ŠKODA Connect mobile online services. With its advanced connectivity solutions, the brand’s bestseller is also equipped for the digital age.

ŠKODA OCTAVIA production figures

Generation                                           Number produced

OCTAVIA (1951-1971)                         65,400

OCTAVIA I (1996-2010)                       1,442,100

OCTAVIA II (2004-2013)                      2,604,100

OCTAVIA III (2012-today)                    1,588,400

                                                               6,000,000

Skoda Auto utilised solar energy to power a number of Tow Tractors that are used around Mlada Boleslav Car Plant.

• › ŠKODA has fitted electric tow tractors with solar panels at its main plant in Mladá Boleslav
• › The use of solar energy achieves average annual savings of approx. 10 % of mains electricity 
• › A fleet of seventeen Still R 07 electric tow tractors have been deployed by ŠKODA Logistics
• › Over the medium term, ŠKODA aims to use alternative power in a part of its in-plant utility vehicles
• › Zero-emissions logistics vehicles are another stepping stone in ŠKODA´s GreenFuture strategy of extensive environmental measures 

ŠKODA Logistics is intensifying the use of in-plant battery-powered electric vehicles at the carmaker´s main plant in Mladá Boleslav. 

As part of a pilot project, an electric tow tractor with two trailers was fitted with solar panels. The photovoltaic modules charge Li-ion batteries during operation. ŠKODA expects to save approx. 10 % of power on average annually by using solar power in the operation of these vehicles. 

Photovoltaic technology will be applied on a large scale if the trial is successful.

​The solar modules are installed on the roofs of the trailers and charge the traction batteries of the tow tractor, which lowers the frequency at which the battery must be replaced at charging stations. 

A solar-powered tractor consumes approx. 10 % less mains electricity and also has extended endurance between charging cycles. The solar panels typically charge the batteries of the vehicle to full capacity over the weekend. 

The battery-powered electric tow trucks cover a distance of almost 70 kilometres every day in the Mladá Boleslav plant. For every day of operation, it is possible to measure the length of each charging cycle, the amount of energy supplied by mains electricity, and the share provided by the solar panels. 

This data is continuously stored and will be processed as part of the Green Logistics semester course at the ŠKODA AUTO University.

Along with the electric tow tractor fitted with additional solar panels, there are fifteen other battery-powered electric tractors deployed in logistics at the Mladá Boleslav plant. 

These rigs operate purely on battery power supplied by charging stations where the battery packs are replaced. 

As part of its environmental strategy, ŠKODA aims to use alternative power sources to operate a part of its in-plant logistics vehicle fleet. The carmaker´s vision for the near future is that most suppliers (in the vicinity of the ŠKODA plant) will deliver components to the main plant with utility vehicles using alternative power.

The electric drive offensive for logistics vehicles is another stepping stone in the environmental activities of  ŠKODA AUTO. These are defined by the carmaker´s GreenFuture strategy and target various areas.

The GreenProduct section focuses on making ŠKODA cars environmentally acceptable at every stage of their whole life cycle – from research and development up to environmentally friendly recycling. 

The fundamental focus lies with low emission vehicles. The brand currently offers 107 vehicle variants with CO₂ emissions of less than 120 g/km, of which 37 models achieve values below 100 g of CO₂/km.

In line with the GreenFactory principle, ŠKODA is implementing numerous measures to maximise resource conservation in production.

In the period of 2010 to 2015, ŠKODA was able to lower its environmental impact by 35.8 % thanks to a decrease in energy and water consumption, waste, CO₂ emissions, and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC). 

Even more ambitious environmental targets have been set in order to accelerate this positive trend. According to these objectives, ŠKODA will reduce the impact of its production on the environment by 45 % by 2018 compared to 2010, i.e. it will decrease this value by almost one-half. 

The fulfilment of the GreenFuture strategy will also be based on environmentally optimised logistics processes, including electrically powered in-plant transport. 

5,000,000, 20 Years, three generations, two body styles, infinite combinations, thats the Octavia from Skoda Auto.

• ​›First ŠKODA OCTAVIA rolled off production line at newly constructed plant in Mladá Boleslav two decades ago 
• ›Modular vehicle design, advanced technology, high efficiency and ergonomics in OCTAVIA production 
• ›Production figures rose by more than a third within a year 
• ›ŠKODA OCTAVIA one of most successful model series in automotive world  
• ›Undisputed bestseller in traditional brand’s 121-year history with more than five million units sold

​20 years ago, on 3 September 1996, former Czech President Vaclav Havel gave the starting signal for the production of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA in the newly opened part of the plant at the company's headquarters. 

This also marked the beginning of a unique success story: Over the following two decades, the ŠKODA OCTAVIA became a worldwide bestseller and is still the best selling model of the brand from Mladá Boleslav. The popular compact car paved the way for ŠKODA’s success.

​In February 1995 in Mladá Boleslav, the foundation stone for the new production line was laid, on which the first ŠKODA OCTAVIAs would be produced around 18 months later. 

For the new series ŠKODA built a modern production line in a 32,000-square-meter hall. In addition, a total of 2,500 square meters of office space and 3,000 square meters of social areas were created. In March 1996, the new paint shop was completed, where up to 1,800 bodies of model series ŠKODA FELICIA and ŠKODA OCTAVIA would be painted every day.

On 3 September 1996, former President of the Czech Republic Václav Havel inaugurated the new plant and also officially gave the go-ahead for the series production of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA. “The plant is beautiful, modern, really pretty. It would be great if all factories looked like this.” – Havel’s words of praise at the opening ceremony.

The development of the completely new OCTAVIA model series began in 1992, approximately one year after the traditional Czech brand joined the Volkswagen Group. The ŠKODA OCTAVIA was based on a Group platform which was completely new at the time. 

The robust body structure, which had been developed using the latest CAD (Computer Aided Design) technology, provided exemplary active and passive safety in combination with front airbags for driver and passenger. In addition, this was the first time that ŠKODA had offered the then new side airbags for the OCTAVIA.

With the clever liftback solution, the new compact featured an especially practical highlight: Thanks to the large tailgate of the hatchback model, customers benefited from excellent access to the 528-litre boot, which could be extended to as much as 1,328 litres by folding the rear seats down.

In 1996 – the first sales year – ŠKODA OCTAVIA customers could choose from two four-cylinder petrol engines or a turbodiesel drivetrain. In May 1998, the ŠKODA OCTAVIA COMBI extended the model range; from 1999 the estate version was also available with all-wheel drive. 

The last vehicle from the first generation rolled off the production line in November 2010. Between September 1996 and November 2010 around 970,000 saloons and more than 470,000 estates were delivered.

The second-generation ŠKODA OCTAVIA seamlessly continued the success story of its predecessor: Between 2004 and 2013, 1.6 million customers opted for the saloon, 900,000 buyers chose the ŠKODA OCTAVIA estate. 

The third generation of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA has been in production since November 2012. Today the bestseller is considered the heart of the brand and is extremely popular both as a family car and as a company vehicle. 

Since the start of production of the first generation on September 3, 1996, more than five million ŠKODA OCTAVIAs have left the production halls.  In addition to the main plant in Mladá Boleslav the compact is also manufactured at the ŠKODA plants in China, India, Russia and Kazakhstan.

Škoda Auto has begun a major new campaign to showcase the Kodiaq Seven Seater SUV, sue in early 2017.

• ŠKODA transfers its distinctive new design language into the SUV segment
• Largest boot capacity within class
• Available with up to seven seats
• Latest infotainment, connectivity, and assistance system technology
• Three TSI and two TDI engines
• Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) as well as off-road function for 4×4 variants

ŠKODA has kicked off its major SUV campaign with the new Kodiaq. The 4.7m long SUV is a versatile all-rounder. It offers the largest boot capacity within its class and will be available with the option of a third row of seats.  The Kodiaq places a new brand emphasis on infotainment, assistance systems and connectivity, and goes on sale at the beginning of 2017.

With the Kodiaq, ŠKODA is entering a new market segment that is growing quickly across the world – the large SUV class. With this campaign, the brand wants to engage new customer groups, increase its market share and further strengthen its position in international markets. 

The ŠKODA Kodiaq demonstrates where ŠKODA stands today, and points to its future – with a variety of new technology and future-oriented features in terms of connectivity, including mobile online services.

“Our new ŠKODA Kodiaq SUV is a great all-rounder”, said ŠKODA CEO, Bernhard Maier. “It combines an active sense of vitality with the brand’s classic qualities – a high degree of functionality and an outstanding amount of space. 

As always, in the design process we have focused on offering a little bit more car, and as a result, the best vehicle in the segment. In addition, with its emotive design, the ŠKODA Kodiaq is a strong presence on the road.”

Full of character: transfer of design language into the SUV segment

Even at first glance, the ŠKODA Kodiaq is a true ŠKODA: with a design that is full of character and emotion, its brings the brand’s new design language into the SUV segment. In day-to-day use, it offers a variety of qualities for family, leisure and business. 

Whether as a five- or seven-seater, the ŠKODA KODIAQ has plenty of space. With a capacity of up to 2,065 litres, the five-seater boasts the largest boot within its class. Adjustable rear seats come as standard, with backrests that can be tilted as required.

Ease of use, outstanding quality and the ‘Simply Clever’ philosophy are ŠKODA’s defining characteristics. The ŠKODA Kodiaq introduces new and extraordinary concepts, including door-edge protection that deploys automatically to avoid damaging the vehicle in garages or car parks. There is an electric child safety lock for the youngest passengers, as well as a sleep comfort package with special headrests for long trips.

At the top of the segment: connectivity solutions

With innovative connectivity solutions, the ŠKODA Kodiaq is at the top end of its segment. The infotainment elements originate from Volkswagen Group’s second-generation Modular Infotainment Matrix. They offer numerous functions and interfaces, and are all equipped with capacitive touchscreens. 

The top-of-the-range Columbus and Amundsen systems come with a WiFi hotspot. As an optional extra, there is an LTE module for the Columbus system – which establishes an internet connection using the fastest mobile communications standard currently available. 

Passengers can use this to browse online content and send emails using their mobile phones or tablets.

The new mobile online services from ŠKODA are compatible with LTE, and are divided into two categories: the Infotainment Online services provide information and navigation, and the Care Connect services provide breakdown and emergency assistance. 

An eCall emergency button, which will be required for all new cars in Europe from 2018, is already now part of the Care Connect service. 

Other online services run via the ŠKODA Connect app. They can be used to check, configure and find a car from afar via a smartphone.

The ŠKODA Kodiaq reaches a new level when it comes to the intelligent pairing of car and smartphone. 

The SmartLink platform, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, MirrorLink^TM and SmartGate, is optional for the entry-level Swing infotainment system but a standard feature for the more advanced infotainment systems. 

A Phonebox with inductive charging connects the smartphone to the roof aerial and charges it wirelessly.

Reliable support: driver assistance systems

The ŠKODA Kodiaq features a wide range of driving assistance systems. The Area View cameras, new for ŠKODA, display the car’s immediate surroundings on the monitor. When a trailer is attached to the large SUV, the Tow Assist system takes over manoeuvring when reversing slowly. 

The new predictive pedestrian protection function compliments Front Assist. Parking Distance Control with braking function, also new, provides support with parking manoeuvres – the Kodiaq brakes automatically as soon as it detects an obstacle.

Additional driver assistance systems are also available for the ŠKODA Kodiaq. They keep the car at a safe distance from vehicles in front, make it easier for the driver to change and stay in lane, alert the driver to important traffic signs and assist when parking.

Powerful and agile:engines and chassis

When the Kodiaq launches at the beginning of 2017, it will be available in a choice of five engines: two TDIs and three TSIs. The most powerful petrol engine, the 2.0-litre TSI, provides dynamic driving performance with a power output of 132 kW (180 PS); it works just as efficiently as a lower capacity powertrain thanks to a newly developed combustion process.

A range of transmission options are available – six-speed manual gearbox, DSG transmission, front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The large SUV from the Czech Republic negotiates all types of roads in a balanced and comfortable, yet dynamic and nimble way. 

The driving experience becomes even more appealing when the car features Driving Mode Select and Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC). Using these, operation of the steering, accelerator, DSG transmission and suspension can be configured in multiple modes.

The new ŠKODA Kodiaq feels equally at home on rough terrain. Upon reaching the end of the road, an off-road mode supports the driver when using four-wheel drive. 

At the touch of a button, all the relevant systems – engine management, assistance systems, electronic chassis systems, such as ABS and ESC, as well as the suspension if combined with the optional DCC – automatically adjust to off-road conditions.

Powerful exterior with distinct 3-dimensional lines, that 's the All-New Kodiaq from Skoda, premieres in September.

• Powerful exterior with distinct three-dimensional lines
• Elegant appearance thanks to clear interior lines
• Largest boot in its class, optional foldable third row

The ŠKODA Kodiaq, which will celebrate its world premiere in September, makes a strong statement with an impressive combination of powerful design and generous space. 

The exterior is clear-cut, the lines are distinctly three-dimensional – giving the new ŠKODA SUV an unmistakeable presence on the road. The interior is also characterised by clear lines and impresses with generous space alongside its elegant appearance.

Jozef Kabaň, ŠKODA’s Head of Design, and his team have opted for a striking design language for the ŠKODA Kodiaq, which transfers the brand’s new design style into the SUV segment. Rationality and aesthetics work together unmistakeably here. 

As the design sketch already shows, all lines are clear, precise and sharp; the highly recessed shoulder line highlights the large ŠKODA SUV’s robust character. Flat, raked headlights are positioned on both sides of the wide ŠKODA grille. 

Their crystalline structure pays hommage to Czech crystal glass art, which is steeped in tradition.

The extensively sculptured rear section also accentuates the ŠKODA Kodiaq’s sporty, robust SUV character. The LED rear lights are designed in the brand’s typical C-shape, continuing the ŠKODA SUV design lines in great detail. 

The side view is equally as strong. The long wheelbase and short overhangs point to the spacious interior. The SUV is available with two extra seats in the third row as an optional extra.

With its clear design, the interior continues the striking design of the exterior. Even here, form and functionality stand together in unison: the interior comes across as protective and robust, but also impresses with an elegant character. The atmosphere is timeless and functional. All the features exude clarity and tranquillity.

Strong vertical elements, like the four large air vents, are characteristic of the interior. The large display splits the instrument panel into two equal sections for the driver and passenger. The front of the instrument panel is three-dimensional and divided into two areas. The door trims carry on this design approach. Finely cut, crystalline features add a special touch.

Interview with Jozef Kabaň, ŠKODA’s Head of Design: “ŠKODA is becoming much more emotive”

Mr Kabaň, what does the design of the ŠKODA Kodiaq mean for the brand?

Jozef Kabaň: The ŠKODA Kodiaq is a pioneer for our brand in two respects. We are entering a new segment with our first large SUV above the Yeti. And at the same time, the Kodiaq is the first model with the new ŠKODA SUV design language. It is powerful and emotive, but also timeless.

What is special about the design language of your large SUV?

Kabaň: The ŠKODA Kodiaq is extremely versatile. It is exceptionally spacious and with compact external dimensions, it delivers the best overall package in its class. It is also robust, suits all types of terrain and offers the best flexibility and functionality. We wanted to visualise this in the exterior design as well as the interior. Form and functionality are therefore in harmony in the ŠKODA Kodiaq. The crystalline and striking appearance also underlines the strength and character of the ŠKODA Kodiaq.

How does one combine design and functionality?

Kabaň: We aspire to combine the highest degree of aesthetics with maximum functionality in such a way that one no longer speaks of different criteria. We are searching for beauty in simplicity, without disregarding functionality or ergonomics. A good design makes functionality attractive. This balance of functionality and aesthetics makes our ŠKODA Kodiaq special.

What role does Czech crystal glass art play in this?

Kabaň: Every detail of our models tells a story, that is the emotive power of the brand. We were inspired by traditional Czech crystal glass art for the crystalline elements of the ŠKODA Kodiaq. The lines are clear, precise and sharply drawn. The distinctive interplay of light and shade on the strongly contoured surfaces is distinctive. The crystalline structure is also present in the details, such as the headlights or decorative trims.

You can see the creativity and great attention to detail that also went into designing the interior. What do you consider the most interesting design feature of the ŠKODA Kodiaq's interior?

Kabaň: We are carrying the exterior’s wide, clear lines forward into the interior. And the emphasis here is on the harmony between form and functionality, on calm and clarity. For me, a car has to function perfectly and also radiate aesthetics. An interior should spark feelings of trust and well-being. From this philosophy, we have created an atmosphere that is also elegant, comfortable and functional at the same time.

Skoda releases sales, income and profits for teh first quarter of the year, and they are significantly higher than 2015.

• 6.4% sales revenue increase to 3.4 billion euros
• Operating profit increased 30.2% to 315 million euros
• ŠKODA’s new flagship SUPERB is among the growth factors

ŠKODA’s growth continues: The Czech automaker’s deliveries, sales revenue and operating profit have increased over the first three months of this year. This was ŠKODA’s strongest start to a new year ever, with sales increasing 4.3% to 276,600 vehicles in the first quarter. 

Sales revenue increased 6.4% in the same period to 3.379 billion euros; operating profit rose 30.2% to 315 million euros.

“ŠKODA has made an excellent start to the year,” says ŠKODA CEO Bernhard Maier, adding, “We have seamlessly continued the success of last year into the first quarter of 2016. We owe this especially to our strong model range, with the new ŠKODA SUPERB as an additional driving force, our highly motivated workforce and our commercial partners in the markets. The encouraging sales figures and strong financial results of the first quarter provide a solid foundation for further profitable growth. Our next model campaign begins with the upcoming launch of the new ŠKODA KODIAQ.” 

ŠKODA’s sales revenue rose 6.4 % to 3.379 billion euros between January and March 2016 (first quarter of 2015: 3.175 billion euros). Operating profit increased 30.2 %, reaching 315 million euros (first quarter of 2015: 242 million euros). Operating margin rose to 9.3% after 7.6% in the first quarter of the previous year. The higher profitability was primarily due to positive mix effects and better product costs.

“Thanks to this strong first quarter, ŠKODA’s profitable growth has continued and the company has again confirmed its financial strength and profitability,” explains ŠKODA CFO Winfried Krause. “Although the economic conditions remain challenging and the situation in some markets is difficult, we can build on our financial strength,” adds Krause.

ŠKODA AUTO Group – Key figures quarterly comparison, January to March 2016/2015*:

				January - March		2016/2015
				2016	2015	% Change
Deliveries to customers (DTC)		Cars		276,600	265,100	4.3
DTC without China		Cars		201,200	193,400	4.0
Production		Cars		197,800	186,400	6.1
Sales		Cars		207,100	196,100	5.6
Sales revenue		Million EUR		3,379	3,175	6.4
Operating profit		Million EUR		315	242	30.2
Operating profit as % of sales revenue		%		9.3	7.6	-
Investments (w/o capitalized development costs)		Million EUR		71	68	3.8
Net liquidity		Million EUR		3,393	2,395	41.7

*Deviations in the percentages are due to calculations using unrounded figures.

** Vehicle production excluding CKD units