Skoda History
Since 1895

The Skoda Story

130 years of innovation, passion, and automotive excellence

Celebrating

130Years of Excellence

From humble beginnings in a small Czech town to becoming a globally recognized automotive brand, Skoda has been synonymous with innovation, quality, and trust for over a century.

Our journey began in 1895 when two visionaries, Václav Laurin and Václav Klement, joined forces to create bicycles. Today, we continue their legacy of engineering excellence, now driving towards an electrified future.

100+Countries
1M+Cars Annually
40K+Employees
Film

125 Years of Challenges

Witness the remarkable journey of Skoda through this commemorative documentary, celebrating over a century of automotive achievements.

Václav Laurin and Václav Klement — Founders of Škoda
Mladá Boleslav, 1895
The Visionaries

Meet the Founders

Václav Laurin

Master Mechanic

A skilled mechanic with an eye for precision engineering. Laurin's technical expertise laid the foundation for the company's commitment to quality craftsmanship.

Václav Klement

Entrepreneur & Bookseller

A visionary businessman who saw the potential in personal transportation. Klement's commercial acumen helped transform a small workshop into a global enterprise.

"Only the best will be good enough for our customers."

— Company motto since 1895
Key Moments

Defining Milestones

From bicycles to electric vehicles — explore the pivotal moments that shaped Skoda's remarkable journey.

Slavia Bicycles
1895

Slavia Bicycles

Václav Laurin and Václav Klement begin manufacturing bicycles under the Slavia brand in Mladá Boleslav.

01/10
Timeline

Our Journey Through Time

A visual representation of Skoda's evolution from a small workshop to a global automotive leader.

The Beginning
1895 – 1905

The Beginning

Václav Laurin & Václav Klement start with bicycles and motorcycles in Mladá Boleslav, laying the foundation for a legendary brand.

Automobile Pioneer
1905 – 1925

Automobile Pioneer

The Voiturette A marks the birth of L&K automobiles. Innovation accelerates, earning the brand recognition across Europe.

Skoda Works Era
1925 – 1991

Skoda Works Era

The merger with Skoda Works brings industrial scale. Through world wars and political change, the brand endures and innovates.

Global Expansion
1991 – 2010

Global Expansion

Strategic partnership with Volkswagen Group transforms Skoda into a truly global brand with world-class quality standards.

SUV Revolution
2010 – 2020

SUV Revolution

The Fabia, Laura, and Superb expand the lineup. Skoda becomes one of the fastest-growing European brands.

Electric Future
2020 – Today

Electric Future

New brand identity, a bold design language, and full commitment to electric mobility shape the road ahead.