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The life story of Petr Hrdlička, who celebrates his 90th birthday today, is closely tied to the Czech automotive industry and the Škoda brand. Thanks to his expertise in modern car design, he became the Director of Technical Development, where his main task was to develop the Škoda Favorit model. He also left his mark on the Škoda 1000 MB and the evolution of rear-engine Škoda cars in the 1980s.

A successful career despite the odds
Petr Hrdlička was born on 12 September 1934 in Prague. Due to his father’s wartime engagement as the Director of the car company, personnel assessments initially prevented him from being admitted to higher education, prompting him to join the Institute for Motor Vehicle Research (ÚVMV). However, thanks to his skill and determination, along with a favourable turn of events, he was finally accepted into the Czech Technical University in Prague (ČVUT) in 1954. After graduating, Petr Hrdlička joined Škoda Auto in 1959, starting in the Tooling Design department.

A broad impact on the Škoda 743 and Škoda 1000 MB
Specialising in hypoid gears, Petr Hrdlička was tasked in 1959 with calculating the parameters for the rear axle gears of the upcoming Škoda 1000 MB model. His work also influenced the modification of other vehicle components to ensure their durability. In the latter half of the 1970s, Petr Hrdlička led the Scientific and Technical Development unit at ÚVMV, where he established an Innovations department focused on modernising the Škoda 742 and 743 models. In particular, he contributed to the development of the trailing rear axle, as well as the implementation of rack-and-pinion steering, a more powerful braking system, and the modification of the four-speed transmission to five-speed, aimed at reducing noise and fuel consumption.

Petr Hrdlička’s most notable project: Developing the Škoda Favorit
Petr Hrdlička is most closely associated with the Škoda Favorit model, whose success was crucial for the company. It marked the long-awaited transition to a modern design with a front-engine and front-wheel drive. As Director of Technical Development, Petr Hrdlička worked in Mladá Boleslav for seven years, from March 1983 to March 1990. At the outset, he was instrumental in securing a contract with designer Giuseppe “Nuccio” Bertone, and through his technical expertise, he influenced the development, design, and potential supplier decisions for all vehicle components, advocating for the introduction of numerous modern technologies by subcontractors. Petr Hrdlička’s team completed the Škoda Favorit project in record time; the all-new car made its public debut as early as September 1987. With its modern design and new technologies, the model significantly contributed to the modernisation of the entire automotive industry in then-Czechoslovakia and laid the foundation for Volkswagen Group’s decision to acquire the Czech car manufacturer in 1991. After his departure from Škoda Auto in 1990, Petr Hrdlička reconnected with it professionally in the mid-1990s as an external consultant, maintaining close ties primarily with the Development department.

The technical legacy of the Hrdlička family
The Hrdlička family’s association with the Mladá Boleslav-based car manufacturer began in January 1929, when Petr Hrdlička’s father Karel Hrdlička (1 March 1888 – 7 December 1979,) became Deputy Plant Manager, and shortly after, the Director of the car company, then officially named the Joint-Stock Company for the Automotive Industry (ASAP). He held this position until 1942 when his involvement ended due to wartime pressures. During his tenure, Škoda advanced to first place among strong domestic competitors. Moreover, Škoda established model series such as the Popular, Rapid, Favorit, and Superb thanks to the introduction of mass production in Czechoslovakia in a newly-built modern factory.

The family tradition continues with Petr Hrdlička’s son, Martin (*1969), who began his professional career with the Škoda brand in January 1993. A distinguished technician in his own right, he currently holds the position of the Head of Chassis and Powertrain Development.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

On #WorldEVDay, Škoda unveils new details of the all-new Elroq, its first production model to adopt the Modern Solid design language. The first exterior sketches of the Elroq provide a sneak preview of the standout design, including a new front with Škoda lettering, Tech-Deck Face and Matrix-LED headlights integrated into a bold bumper. Other visual highlights include details in Unique Dark Chrome and the new Elroq-exclusive Timiano Green colour.

“The all-new Škoda Elroq embodies our new Modern Solid design language and takes the exterior design even further with its eye-catching Tech-Deck Face and distinctive front bumper. The Škoda lettering on the bonnet stands out as another characteristic feature of our all-new fully electric car, with accents in Unique Dark Chrome rounding off the look. Thanks to its long range and rugged body style, the Elroq will be the perfect companion for Everyday Explorers on outdoor adventures, while its compact size also makes it ideal for urban driving.”

Karl Neuhold, Head of Exterior Design at Škoda Auto

Split headlight design, new Škoda lettering on the bonnet and Tech-Deck Face
The exterior sketches of the all-electric Škoda Elroq depict a newly designed, striking front end. A key feature is the innovative Tech-Deck Face, a flat, wide structure that replaces the traditional Škoda grille. The front is further distinguished by a split headlight design, with the slimmer upper section seamlessly extending into the wings. The bonnet displays the Škoda lettering in Unique Dark Chrome, marking the Elroq as the first vehicle to embody Škoda’s new corporate identity. Adding to its distinct appearance, the Elroq debuts the new Timiano Green colour, while its rugged look is accentuated by robust bumpers at both the front and rear.

The rear of the Elroq sports a prominent roof spoiler and slim LED taillights. Additional visual highlights include Unique Dark Chrome accents, such as the centrally positioned lettering on the tailgate and the 2D Škoda logo adorning the centre caps of the alloy wheels.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

The first updated Škoda Octavia built at the Kvasiny plant has rolled off the production line. The production of additional units of the brand’s bestseller in Kvasiny was made possible thanks to the new-generation Superb now being manufactured at the Volkswagen plant in Bratislava. At the same time, production of the Octavia continues at Škoda’s main facility in Mladá Boleslav. Around 7.5 million units have been produced since the first modern-generation Octavia was introduced in 1996.

“By producing additional units of the Škoda Octavia at our Kvasiny plant we are making efficient use of our flexible production network and fully utilising the capacities of our plants. In addition to comprehensively preparing for the production launch of additional Octavia units at Kvasiny, we have established a training centre providing the ideal setting to further train and upskill our team. I sincerely thank everyone involved in this project for their effort and dedication throughout the process.”

Andreas Dick, Škoda Auto Board Member for Production and Logistics

Training centre tailored to different learning levels
The additional units of the updated fourth-generation Škoda Octavia are produced on the same production line as the Karoq at the Kvasiny plant, where the Kodiaq SUV is also built. While preparing for the production launch of the updated Škoda Octavia, the carmaker opened a training centre in Kvasiny equipped with state-of-the-art technology, three robotic workstations for practical training and two classrooms for advanced theoretical instruction.

Škoda Octavia: a milestone model with sustained high demand
The first modern-generation Škoda Octavia rolled off the Mladá Boleslav production line in 1996. It was the first model to be developed entirely under the umbrella of the Volkswagen Group. In March 1998, Škoda introduced the even more spacious Octavia Combi, the first all-wheel-drive variant followed in 1999.

Produced between 2004 and 2013, the second-generation Škoda Octavia offered an upgraded engine range, enhanced technology, a more robust body compared to its predecessor and the large radiator grille took on a trapezoidal shape.

The third generation was built on the Volkswagen Group’s then-new MQB A platform and offered a standard boot capacity of 590 litres for the liftback and 610 litres for the estate. In 2017, the updated model came with split headlights featuring optional LED technology.

The current fourth generation of the Škoda Octavia debuted in November 2019. It is built on the updated MQB platform. Some of the petrol engines can be paired with mild-hybrid technology or all-wheel drive. The Octavia was comprehensively updated in spring, bringing a refreshed design, second-generation Matrix-LED headlights, further enhanced safety and comfort features, and new functions, including the integration of ChatGPT into the voice assistant Laura.

Across the four modern generations, approximately 7.5 million Octavias have been produced, continuing the legacy of the popular historical model, the first units of which were produced 65 years ago. Available as a two-door saloon or a practical estate, a total of 360,000 vehicles were produced between 1959 and 1971.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

This year, Škoda Auto is commemorating anniversaries at its Kvasiny and Vrchlabí plants: The Kvasiny site has been producing cars for 90 years and was integrated into Škoda’s production network in 1947. The history of the Vrchlabí plant spans 160 years, yet the first Škoda models did not roll off its production line until 1946. In 1945, both facilities were nationalised and incorporated as part of Škoda, then known as AZNP (Automobilové závody, národní podnik). In recent years, these plants have undergone a radical transformation, extensively incorporating Industry 4.0 technologies. At Kvasiny, Škoda currently produces the Karoq, Kodiaq, and Octavia series, while the Vrchlabí plant focuses on manufacturing DQ200 automatic direct-shift transmissions. Both sites play a crucial role in advancing the company’s sustainability strategy, having achieved significant milestones in recent years.

“The long-standing industrial tradition in Kvasiny and Vrchlabí reflects the skill and ingenuity of engineers who have been tackling challenging tasks for generations. This legacy influences these plants even today. Our workforce’s creativity has driven the successful transformation and development of these sites, securing their role as cornerstones of our international production network. I congratulate all colleagues on these milestones and thank the team for their dedication and effort.”

Andreas Dick, Škoda Auto Board Member for Production and Logistics

Kvasiny plant: from sports models to the Favorit
On the site of today’s Kvasiny plant, František Karel Janeček established a factory to produce bodies for small Jawa 700 cars from 1934 onwards. In 1945, Škoda took over the plant and iconic vehicles like the 1101 ‘Tudor’, Felicia Roadster, 110 R Coupé, Garde, and Rapid models rolled off the production line. In 1947, the Kvasiny plant began building the Superb OHV. Between 1959 and 1964, the Škoda Felicia was produced there, and from 1961 to 1971, the Kvasiny plant manufactured the Octavia Combi. Additionally, the site was instrumental in building racing cars such as the 200 RS and the 130 RS. During the 1980s, the plant saw various versions of the Škoda 105/120/130 series with rear engines and rear-wheel drive brought to life, culminating in the launch of the front-wheel drive Favorit model.

Kvasiny today: in-demand SUVs and the updated Octavia
In 2002, the production of the first modern-generation Superb commenced in Kvasiny. Since then, the plant has continuously evolved, marked by milestones such as the opening of an automatic warehouse for small components, the establishment of a multifunctional competence centre and an educational centre, as well as the expansion of the body shop. In 2019, Škoda launched the production of its first plug-in hybrid model, the Superb iV. The current line-up manufactured at Kvasiny includes the Karoq and Kodiaq SUVs, as well as the Octavia. By June 2024, the Kvasiny plant had produced over 4,000,000 Škoda vehicles across various model series since joining the Volkswagen group in 1991.

The Kvasiny site is also committed to advancing Škoda Auto’s sustainability initiatives. Currently, up to 90% of the electricity used at the plant comes from renewable sources. In 2023, the site enhanced its painting process, improving technical parameters to yield annual savings of 6,000 MWh of natural gas.

Vrchlabí plant: from carriage to vehicle production
The tradition of industrial manufacturing in Vrchlabí dates back to 1864 when a local entrepreneur founded the company Ig. Th. Petera & Sons, specialising in carriage manufacturing and English saddlery. The workshop expanded into a factory in 1904, and by 1908, the first automobile body had been produced there. Between 1908 and 1946, the site operated as a private company producing custom-made automobile bodies.
In 1946, the Vrchlabí factory became part of AZNP, heralding the launch of Škoda car production. The most iconic vehicle from Vrchlabí was the legendary Škoda 1203, a versatile truck and flatbed, the first units of which were produced in 1968. The plant later focused on higher equipment versions of the model series 150/120, and eventually on limited editions based on the Favorit, Forman, and Felicia.

Vrchlabí today: carbon-neutral production 7 days a week
In 2012, Škoda Auto converted the plant into a state-of-the-art component manufacturing site within 18 months, built a new factory hall and began producing DQ200 direct-shift automatic transmissions. The plant was also modernised, incorporating Industry 4.0 technologies such as a digital twin and smart handling robots. Around half of the transmissions produced at the Vrchlabí plant are used in Škoda models, with the remaining units installed in other Volkswagen Group vehicles. The plant operates seven days a week, with an annual production capacity of 690,000 transmissions. In October 2023, the plant produced its five-millionth transmission.

Since late 2020, the Vrchlabí plant has been carbon-neutral after switching to renewable energies and offsetting the remaining emissions through compensation measures and CO₂ certificates.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

The all-new Škoda Elroq brings a fresh perspective to sustainable automotive design with its innovative use of interior materials like Recytitan and Technofil. In line with the brand’s Modern Solid design language, the Elroq’s interior emphasises simplicity, spaciousness, and clean lines. At the same time, the selected materials underscore Škoda’s commitment to environmental protection and reducing the CO₂ footprint of its vehicles: the seats and upholstery fabrics are made from recycled plastic bottles and, for the first time, recycled post-consumer clothing. These are carefully reprocessed into

high-quality new yarns and fabrics for the Elroq. The Czech car manufacturer thus takes the next step towards further realising its sustainability goals.

Four Design Selections, incorporating even more sustainable materials
The new Škoda Elroq boasts a spacious interior defined by clean, simple lines that embody the brand’s Modern Solid design language. Customers will have the choice of four Design Selections: Studio, Loft, Lodge, and Suite, each incorporating a greater proportion of sustainable materials.

The Loft Design Selection, for example, uses Recytitan—a material comprising 78% recycled PET and, for the first time in Škoda models, recycled post-consumer clothing. The dark grey-blue fabric is complemented by dark artificial leather details and yellow reflective stitching.

The Lodge Design Selection features a material called Technofil. This material also contains ECONYL® yarns made from regenerated nylon obtained for example from old fishing nets and fabric scraps. This Selection is distinguished by black fabric paired with light grey artificial leather, highlighted by orange contrast stitching and matching orange seat belts.

Fabric scraps, fishing nets and bottles re-used in Škoda interiors
Škoda is continuously advancing its use of innovative and sustainable materials across all products. To further increase the sustainability of the Elroq’s Design Selection Loft, the brand uses Recytitan for the door panels, seat covers, dashboard, armrest, and knee pads. It is composed of 78% recycled PET, sourced from items such as plastic water bottles. The remaining material is derived from new PET (16%) and for the first time also mechanically recycled fibres recovered from post-consumer clothing (6%). The fibre blend undergoes processing without chemical treatments. The careful attention to detail during the spinning and warping of yarns ensures a perfect balance of comfort, durability, and sustainability.

In the Lodge Design Selection, Škoda uses Technofil material, which is composed of 75% recycled ECONYL® fibres and 25% polyester. This innovative fabric reuses nylon waste, such as fishing nets, fabric scraps, and carpets destined for landfill, transforming them into new nylon yarn. Known for its excellent friction and abrasion resistance, ECONYL® nylon is also 100% regenerable, allowing yarns to be recycled repeatedly without ever losing quality.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

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