Milton Keynes, 02 December 2025 – Škoda is once again looking to its rich heritage for future inspiration with the reveal of a striking design study: a modern, all-electric reinterpretation of the Škoda 100, the brand’s first-ever million-selling model. Created by exterior designer Martin Paclt, the concept fuses the charm of the beloved 1960s original with Škoda’s forward-looking Modern Solid design language, presenting a bold vision of how an icon could be reborn for the EV era.
A Modern Saloon Rooted in a Storied Past
Few manufacturers possess a back catalogue as influential as Škoda’s. From the elegant Superb of the 1930s to the first-generation Octavia of the 1950s, many of the brand’s historic nameplates have shaped today’s models. The 100 holds a similar place in the marque’s legacy. Lauded for its simplicity, reliability and approachable character, it quickly became a favourite both in period and among classic-car enthusiasts ever since.
Paclt’s mission from the outset was clear: capture the spirit without recreating the past. Rather than pursue retro nostalgia, the team distilled key elements of the original—its honest stance, unadorned surfaces and purposeful silhouette—into a contemporary saloon with clean volumes and refined proportions.
“The aim was never to build a replica,” Paclt notes. “It was about keeping the character alive while applying our modern design principles.”
Modern Solid Meets Mid-Century Clarity
The result is a car that feels unmistakably new yet instantly recognisable. Smooth, uninterrupted surfaces emphasise the saloon’s generous proportions, while modern signatures—such as a four-element lighting motif and full-width LED light bands front and rear—anchor the concept in Škoda’s current design direction. These illuminated details subtly nod to the chrome accents and distinctive rear vent of the historic 100.
Yet the most daring reinterpretation lies at the back of the vehicle.
A Radical Rear: No Window, Maximum Expression
Inspired by the original car’s intriguing similarity between its front and rear glass, Paclt made a bold creative leap: remove the rear window entirely. Without conventional glazing, the rear of the concept mirrors the sculptural qualities of the front, creating an oval graphic signature at both ends—a clear, modern reference to the 1960s silhouette.
“It’s a break from convention and will definitely spark emotion,” says Paclt. “That’s exactly what design should do.”
This unconventional choice also unlocked new technical opportunities. The windowless rear enabled the integration of a high-mounted fresh-air intake system, complemented by discreet vents on the rear wings. Although fully electric, the concept still requires thermal management, and this elevated positioning improves efficiency while subtly highlighting the technical hardware—a thoughtful echo of the original 100’s rear-engine layout.
Design Driven by Craftsmanship and Realism
The project began with traditional sketches. “Pencils and crayons let me test ideas quickly and see what resonates,” Paclt explains. Once the direction was set, digital modelling took over, allowing the saloon to evolve into the detailed study revealed today.
Technically, the concept is based on the current Škoda Superb package. Paclt chose this platform to give the reimagined 100 the presence and confidence he believed the icon deserved in a modern context. Although Škoda has no production plans for this design study, the insights gained during its creation will influence future design work across the brand.
A Brief Look Back: The Škoda 100 Legacy
Produced between 1969 and 1977, the Škoda 100/110 series became the company’s first model to break the one-million-unit milestone, with 1,079,708 examples built. An evolution of the 1000 MB, it retained a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and introduced cleaner styling, improved comfort and practical innovations such as fold-flat seats on L-grade models. Power outputs ranged from 48 PS in the 1.0-litre 100 to 63 PS in the higher-specification 110 LS.
Today, its reputation for durability, simplicity and understated charm keeps it firmly embedded in Škoda’s automotive heritage.
