Škoda Auto is celebrating a remarkable 35-year journey since joining the Volkswagen Group, a partnership that has transformed the Czech carmaker from a modest regional manufacturer into a global automotive powerhouse. From the early days of collaboration, Škoda has leveraged Volkswagen Group’s investments, shared technologies, and coordinated development to create the broadest model portfolio in its history, reaching more than 100 markets worldwide and establishing India as a strong second pillar alongside Europe.
The roots of this success trace back to the 1970s, but the real turning point came with the Škoda Favorit in 1987. Its development showcased the flexibility and technical skill of Škoda’s engineers, capturing Volkswagen’s attention and paving the way for deeper collaboration. After the fall of communism in 1989, Škoda needed a strategic partner to compete on a global scale. This led to the joint venture signed on 28 March 1991, followed by Volkswagen’s gradual acquisition to full ownership by 2000.
Over the decades, Škoda has continuously expanded its model range and production capabilities. In 2025, it became the third best-selling brand in Europe, delivering over 1,040,000 vehicles. Beyond the Czech Republic, the brand now produces vehicles in Slovakia, Kazakhstan, India, Vietnam, and Ukraine, with India emerging as a key market thanks to locally developed models like the Kushaq, Slavia, and Kylaq. New entries in the Middle East, including Oman and Saudi Arabia, underscore Škoda’s international ambitions.
Škoda has also established itself as a key component hub within the Volkswagen Group, supplying engines, transmissions, and battery-electric vehicle (BEV) battery systems. The opening of the battery production facility in Mladá Boleslav has made Škoda the Group’s largest BEV battery manufacturer, strengthening its role in accelerating electrification. By the end of 2026, Škoda will double its all-electric portfolio with the Epiq and Peaq, broadening choice for customers and supporting the Volkswagen Group’s mission to make electric mobility more accessible.
CEO Klaus Zellmer emphasizes that Škoda’s success is built on strong collaboration, both internally and across the Group. He notes that the brand combines scale with identity, efficiency with creativity, and tradition with innovation, creating a resilient platform for future growth. With a clear focus on global expansion and the electrification of its portfolio, Škoda Auto stands poised to continue its journey as a leading, forward-thinking automotive brand.
