New design language, a novel logo and comprehensive corporate identity update – ŠKODA is presenting its new character as part of the brand’s 2030 strategy.
The Czech carmaker is also accelerating and expanding its e-campaign wherein it would launch three new all-electric models as early as 2026.
ŠKODA will be investing a further €5.6 billion (£4.8 billion) in e-mobility over the next five years as it endeavours to increase its share of all-electric cars amongst the brand’s European vehicle sales to rise to 70% by 2030.
The carmaker’s VISION 7S concept study offers an insight into one of these models and Klaus Zellmer, CEO of ŠKODA believes that will “round off the top end of their product portfolio and customer base.”
Accelerated e-campaign
In addition to a small car, there are plans for a compact SUV and a seven-seater for families. The VISION 7S concept study, with its range of over 600 kilometres (370+ miles) and peak charging rate of 200 kW, offers a specific preview of the seven-seater electric SUV. During the transition phase to e-mobility, the brand is strengthening its product portfolio of highly efficient combustion engines and will be unveiling the new-generation SUPERB and KODIAQ in the second half of next year. A refreshed OCTAVIA will also follow in 2024.
Sustainability targets along the value chain
ŠKODA emphasises that from 2030, its Czech and Indian plants will be manufacturing cars with net-zero emissions. The Vrchlabí plant is leading the way; the site has already been CO2‑neutral since 2020, according to the carmaker.
At the same time, ŠKODA has enlisted the support of a Sustainability Advisory Council to implement its ambitious sustainability goals. The five internationally experienced members provide new impetus and suggestions for current and future measures related to sustainability. This way, they promote a more “versatile dialogue on sustainability topics between the car manufacturer and its stakeholders.”
Furthermore, the interiors of the VISION 7S are trimmed in a mix of sustainable, durable materials. The central zone of the door panels is upholstered in a black fabric made from recycled polyester yarns. Recycled fabric is also used for the inner areas of the seats and on the dash.
The floor and boot, which are made entirely of recycled-tyre veneer, also follow the VISION 7S’s sustainable ethos. This special material is scratch-resistant and easy to clean, underlining the car’s suitability for exploring the great outdoors as well as its practicality and family‑friendliness.
ŠKODA VISION 7S
Speaking about ŠKODA’s VISION 7S, which will give a preview of the new design language, head of design, Oliver Stefani said: “The minimalist, functional design conveys a sense of security and radiates strength while at the same time enhancing the aerodynamics of the vehicles we’ll be adding to our portfolio in the future”.
Apart from the 600+ km range, the VISION 7S sports a tech-deck face at the front end, a solid underbody, aerodynamic roof lines, T light cluster at the front and rear as well as sustainable materials in the interior.
The VISION 7S represents a compelling further development of ŠKODA’s interior concept, combining a spacious, protective interior for up to seven passengers with a complete reconceptualization of the natural human-machine interaction (HMI).
The highlights include two distinct interior configurations – driving and relaxing – and an ideal balance between haptic and digital controls. A sense of safety and protection is conveyed by the innovative child seat, which is mounted in front of the second row of seats on the centre console opposite the direction of travel.