Skoda, founded at the turn of the 19th century, is a Czech automobile manufacturer and has been a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group for decades. The brand has remained popular in Europe due to its commitment to both sustainability, modern innovation, and loyalty to classic models reimagined. Recently, the company has announced the return of one of its models from over 40 years ago. However, it comes with a completely new design and vision.
Combining heritage with modern solutions
While many automobile brands today are diving head-first into next-generation and futuristic engine solutions, leaving the past firmly in the rear view mirror, others are not too fast to leave behind their previous models. From the Volkswagen Beetle to the iconic Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, many automobile brands are aware that their legacy and success is due to specific models which are still adored by consumers.
As such, many automobile brands have been reintroducing some of their most favored models with modern twists, showcasing a futuristic outlook but also a commitment to their roots and brand heritage. For example, iconic sports car company Ferrari has continuously introduced hybrid solutions while keeping their famous V8 engine in their models.
Mythical return of this Skoda vehicle after 40 years
Similarly to Ferrari, Skoda has also reimagined some of their vehicles with sustainability in mind. With the world in the middle of a climate crisis, the transportation industry has been increasingly pressured to provide more sustainable solutions. This has been particularly felt in the automobile industry, where automobile brands are introducing alternative engine solutions, such as electric and hydrogen engines, in order to achieve carbon neutrality.
Skoda recently released a redesign of their iconic 1987 Favorit hatchback model, but this time as an electric vehicle. While the design at the moment is still in this concept phase and may not necessarily reach production, the juxtaposition of the original model design and exterior with modern features and a whole new electrical engine is a showcase of combining the past with the future of the automobile world.
“I wanted to update the original idea for today, when various SUVs are popular,” said designer Ljudmil Slavov, adding that “a higher body structure allows for better battery placement in the floor”.
Production of the original Skoda Favorit ended in 1994 and is widely considered a vintage car. However, should Slavov’s design move into a production phase, seeing a reimagined Favorit on the road would be an example for consumers as to how the brand has evolved over time.
The future of sustainability in the automobile world
Electrification appears to be the way forward for engines in the automobile world. Rapidly becoming the dominant alternative engine solution on the road and being hailed as the future of automobile engine solutions, collaboration between stakeholders and the government is seeing more of these vehicles become the norm rather than the exception. In 2024, electric vehicle sales in Norway accounted for 90% of total vehicle sales.
In the first quarter of this year, global electric vehicle sales reached over 4 million, representing a growth of 35% compared to the first quarter of last year. This continued increase in sales is driven by advancements in battery technology, such as ultra-fast charging capabilities, and other initiatives that significantly reduce charging times as well as support these vehicles across locations.
While some automobile brands appear to be placing all their bets on electrification, others are experimenting with diverse types of fuel. Brands such as Toyota and Hyundai have been looking at the possibilities of hydrogen fuel-cell technology in addition to their electric engine solutions. Hydrogen, while not as popular as electric engines in the passenger vehicle world, has been noted for its potential to be integrated into industries such as aviation and long-haul trucking.
