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The ‘Sachsen Classic’ classic car rally is one of the largest and most prestigious events of its kind in Europe. The starting field of vehicles built between the 1920s and 1990s regularly includes historic models from the ŠKODA Classic team, five of which will be taking part in the 18th staging of the rally. The teams will set off from Zwickau on Thursday, 19 August and cover 685 kilometres over three days. The longest stage (321 kilometres) will take the more than 150 historic cars to Mladá Boleslav for the first time on Saturday, 21 August, where they can be admired in front of the ŠKODA Museum around midday.

“Taking part in the Sachsen Classic is not only a tradition for us but also a matter close to our hearts. We strive to enrich the starting field every year with attractive models from our history. This year will be no exception with the quintet of cars we have selected,” says Andrea Frydlová, Head of the ŠKODA Museum in Mladá Boleslav, adding, “We are delighted that the participants will also be able to enjoy the exciting route in the Czech Republic, which will take them directly to Mladá Boleslav for the very first time in the history of the race. Saturday’s stage in particular – themed ‘120 years of ŠKODA Motorsport’ – pays tribute to the momentous anniversary we are celebrating this year.”

On Thursday, 19 August, a ŠKODA FELICIA from 1962 will head for the starting ramp with its distinctive turquoise paintwork. The convertible is one of the most beautiful vehicles in Czech automotive history. The ŠKODA 1100 MBX De Luxe from 1969 is also a testament to the skill of the engineers and designers of the time. The body of the two-door variant of the popular ‘MB’ lacks the upper parts of the B-pillars, which is why the interior appears unusually airy with the windows down. This rare model is now a sought-after and valuable classic car. The other three vehicles will make the hearts of motorsport fans beat faster: The two ŠKODA 110 R models are characterised by their sporty coupé bodywork with an elegant touch. The model, which was a big sales hit, also served as the technical basis for the famous rally and racing cars ŠKODA 180 RS, 200 RS and the ŠKODA 130 RS, which gained fame as the ‘Porsche of the East’. The unmistakable and ear-catching highlight among the participants is the ŠKODA 1100 OHC Roadster from 1957 with a top speed of 200 kilometres per hour. The open-top racing car, which is usually on display at the ŠKODA Museum, is one of only two ever produced. ŠKODA began developing the racing car in spring 1956 with the aim of taking part again – after 1950 – in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans. Due to the political situation, however, the purpose-built car never made it to the start of the legendary race. The quintet of vehicles from the ŠKODA Classic team introduced here will be joined on the starting list by five other ŠKODA vehicles, driven by their private owners as well as teams of journalists.

The ‘Sachsen Classic’ starts on Thursday, 19 August, one minute after noon in Zwickau, Germany. The drivers can look forward to a 110-kilometre “warm-up” stage, which will take them to the famous Sachsenring racetrack, among other places. Covering 254 kilometres, Friday will be a real test for both the machines and their crews when they cross the finish line in Dresden after demanding climbs in the Erzgebirge mountains.

The longest stage (321 km) begins in Dresden on Saturday, 21 August, one minute after seven in the morning, under the banner of ‘120 years of ŠKODA Motorsport’. It will take place mainly on Czech soil, and the first vehicles are expected in Mladá Boleslav as early as 11:00. After stopping at the ŠKODA factory site, the participants will drive from the company’s museum back to Dresden, where the award ceremony awaits them.

The fact that the Sachsen Classic is making its first stop in Mladá Boleslav represents a unique opportunity for all fans of automotive history. Watching the more than 150 classic cars that will arrive in front of the ŠKODA Museum on Saturday, 21 August between 11:50 and 14:00 can be combined with a visit to the museum, where the impressive new exhibition ‘In the spirit of electromobility’ can also be seen alongside the permanent exhibition. Among other things, the presentation explores the history, present and future of electromobility.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

More choice, a wider output range and even greater efficiency: the fourth-generation ŠKODA FABIA is launched with five efficient engines from the Volkswagen Group’s latest EVO generation. They deliver outputs ranging from 48 kW (65 hp) to 110 kW (150 hp) and comply with the stringent Euro 6d emissions standard. Four of the five engines enable a WLTP range of over 900 kilometres when combined with the optional 50-litre tank now available for the first time. Other options for the ŠKODA FABIA include a Rough-Road package with an extra 15 millimetres of ground clearance as well as a stiffer sports suspension lowered by 15 millimetres.

The all-new FABIA is offered with a choice of five drivetrains from the Volkswagen Group’s EVO engine generation, all of which meet the Euro 6d emissions standard. The two 1.0 MPI engines now deliver an output of 48 kW (65 hp) and 59 kW (80 hp). A manual 5-speed gearbox is installed for both engines, as well as the 1.0 TSI with 70 kW (95 hp). The 1.0 TSI with 81 kW (110 hp) comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox or 7-speed DSG. The most powerful engine for the new FABIA is the 1.5 TSI with 110 kW (150 hp) and a 7-speed DSG. The majority of the engines and all the transmissions for the new ŠKODA FABIA are produced in the Czech Republic. The MPI engines and 1.0 TSI powertrains are produced in Mladá Boleslav and the manual transmissions also leave the assembly line at ŠKODA’s main plant. The 7-speed DSG is manufactured at ŠKODA’s Vrchlabí plant. For the first time, the FABIA can be ordered with an optional 50-litre fuel tank instead of the standard 40-litre tank, which, in combination with four of the five engines, enables a maximum range of more than 900 kilometres in the WLTP cycle.

Many innovative solutions for the EVO engines reduce fuel consumption and emissions
ŠKODA AUTO has made numerous refinements that reduce the fuel consumption and emissions of the two MPI engines from the current EVO generation while at the same time increasing their performance. An optimised crankshaft drive complete with pistons and piston rings reduces friction losses. Targeted modification of the water circulation system around the cylinder head and engine block ensures greater cooling efficiency for the cylinders, combustion chambers and integrated exhaust manifold. Moreover, the three-cylinder MPI engines operate on the Atkinson combustion cycle, in which the intake valves only close during a piston’s compression stroke. As a result, part of the air-fuel mixture is pushed back into the intake manifold. This reduces the compression ratio, which in turn lowers the fuel consumption. The two 1.0 TSI direct injection engines use a high injection pressure of 350 bar. Their innovative plasma coating is just 150 micrometres (0.15 millimetres) thick and replaces the cast-iron cylinder liners in the aluminium cylinder crankcase, reducing internal friction inside the three cylinders. This lowers fuel consumption and emissions even further, while reducing the thermal load through a more even distribution and dissipation of heat in the combustion chamber. The three-cylinder MPI engines also operate in the fuel-efficient Miller cycle and the turbocharger has variable turbine geometry. This results in a higher torque that is available over a wider range of engine speeds, while at the same time reducing emissions. The plasma coating and 350-bar injection pressure are also featured in the new top-of-the-range 1.5 TSI engine. Thanks to active cylinder management (ACT), the four-cylinder engine automatically deactivates two cylinders under light load conditions, a process that is virtually imperceptible to the driver and also helps to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Rough-Road package and sports suspension provide additional chassis variants
In addition to the standard version, two other chassis variants are optionally available for the all-new FABIA. The Rough-Road package comes with special springs, a modified suspension and additional protective elements for the chassis; ground clearance is increased by 15 millimetres. The sports suspension offers a firmer spring set-up and is lowered by 15 millimetres for a more dynamic driving experience.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

The fourth-generation ŠKODA FABIA comes with aerodynamics that are more sophisticated than ever before – and unmatched by any competitor model in its class. Sporting an emotive and dynamic design, the all-new FABIA achieves a drag coefficient of just cd = 0.28 – considerably undercutting its predecessor (cd = 0.32). This outstanding aerodynamic efficiency is the result of numerous small-scale enhancements, such as clever cooling shutters with active slats, which help reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The aerodynamics development for the FABIA saw ŠKODA invest over 3,000 CFD simulations, with the results then verified and fine-tuned during subsequent test drives.

Vít Hubáček, responsible for the aerodynamics development of the ŠKODA FABIA, says, “Even though the all-new FABIA is larger than its predecessor – its frontal area has increased by around three per cent – we have reduced its drag coefficient by almost ten per cent. This alone cuts CO₂ emissions by almost three grams per kilometre in the WLTP test cycle. To achieve this, we performed more than 3,000 aerodynamic tests, around 80 per cent virtually, using CFD simulations running on a supercomputer. An ordinary PC would have taken more than 2,000 years to perform the same job.”

The result of the aerodynamics development for the all-new ŠKODA FABIA is a drag coefficient of c_d = 0.28, with the fourth generation considerably undercutting its immediate predecessor (c_d = 0.32) while at the same time establishing a new benchmark for the small car segment. The all‑new FABIA’s outstanding aerodynamics make a significant contribution to the reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. The aerodynamics development saw collaborations between experts from several departments, such as designers, aeroacoustics specialists as well as engineers responsible for the car’s body, underbody and engines. Moreover, ŠKODA cleverly combined virtual tests using computer simulations with physical test drives, with the latter used predominantly to verify and confirm the results of the simulations.

Tens of thousands of supercomputer hours
The ŠKODA AUTO Aerodynamics department worked largely in virtual space during the development of the all-new FABIA. As optimising vehicle aerodynamics is an extremely demanding task and even a minute change can give rise to numerous consequences in other areas, the engineers used supercomputers in order to test as many variations as possible by way of CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulations. Over the course of around three and a half years, they performed over 3,000 of these fluid dynamics simulations, which required tens of thousands of hours of computing time. The role of aerodynamics in the automotive industry has grown considerably in importance over recent years, and this trend will continue as emissions regulations become ever more stringent. ŠKODA AUTO has taken this to heart and significantly increased its staff capacities and competence in this area. While twenty years ago, just three aerodynamics specialists were responsible for the entirety of the ŠKODA AUTO output, there are now three for the FABIA alone.

Cooling shutters lower fuel consumption at 120 km/h by up to 0.2 litres per 100 kilometres
Numerous individual measures have helped the all-new ŠKODA FABIA achieve its best-in-class aerodynamics. One important factor are the innovative cooling shutters in the lower air intake, pioneered by ŠKODA in the FABIA as a first in this vehicle class. When little cooling is required, the active slats will close, thus improving aerodynamics. At a constant speed of 120 km/h, this enables fuel savings of up to 0.2 l/100 km. The FABIA will then also emit up to five grams less CO₂ per kilometre. When cooling requirements are high, or during brief stops, the system will open the slats to allow maximum air flow. In addition, there are numerous components that contribute to minimising drag. The vehicle front features openings in the front bumper known as Air Curtains, which direct the air flow in a highly controlled manner past the body’s side panels and wheel arches, for optimal aerodynamic efficiency. The air flow underneath the car is now optimised by twelve rather than the previous three underbody panels, which combine with the long rear spoiler and side finlets to reduce drag and turbulence at the rear of the car. The shape of the exterior mirrors directs the air straight towards the separation edges on the tail lights. As the wheels alone are responsible for generating around 25 per cent of a car’s air resistance, ŠKODA is now, in another first for the FABIA, introducing special plastic inserts that render its alloy wheels more aerodynamic.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

The new ŠKODA FABIA is cleverer than ever: depending on the trim level, the fourth generation of the successful model offers up to 43 of the brand’s signature Simply Clever details, which have earned the Czech car manufacturer a reputation for making customers’ everyday lives on the road easier. Five of these features are completely new to the ŠKODA range, while eight others now feature in the FABIA for the first time. New additions such as the removable cup holder between the front seats complement ŠKODA classics like the ice scraper with tyre tread depth gauge located inside the fuel filler flap, the car park ticket holder on the A-pillar and the umbrella inside the driver’s door.

Depending on the trim level, the fourth-generation FABIA now offers up to 43 of these clever features – more than ever. They include numerous ŠKODA classics such as the ice scraper with tyre tread depth gauge located inside the fuel filler flap, the car park ticket holder on the A-pillar and the umbrella inside the driver’s door.

ŠKODA offers five Simply Clever ideas for the new FABIA for the first time
ŠKODA is offering five of its ingenious Simply Clever details for the new FABIA for the first time. For example, an innovative, flexible storage compartment is available as an option for the boot. Attached to a side panel, it has a space-saving foldaway design and can be pulled out when needed to hold items in place inside the boot. A removable cup holder between the front seats provides more flexibility in the interior. A new attachment clip for a credit card or a car park ticket and an elastic pen holder in the centre console’s storage compartment help keep the interior tidy. Passengers in the rear can safely store small items in a box on the centre tunnel, which is also available as an option. The box fits neatly between the centre console and the rear seat where it locks into place. The list of Simply Clever ideas also includes a sun visor, which is available as an accessory for the optional panoramic roof. When not in use, it can be folded to a third of its size in a few easy steps and stowed under the boot cover.

Eight details from other ŠKODA models now feature in the FABIA
A total of eight Simply Clever details from higher ŠKODA model series have found their way into the new FABIA and are available for the first time in the popular small car. These include a multifunctional bag that can be hooked under the boot cover. This provides the perfect storage space for coats or jackets and can hold luggage weighing up to 3.5 kilograms. The easy-to-reach pockets for smartphones on the backrests of the front seats will already be familiar from the OCTAVIA and ENYAQ iV, while card and coin compartments in the glove compartment help keep it organised. The backrest of the front passenger seat can be folded down to allow particularly long objects to be transported. In the Style trim line, a USB-C port on the interior mirror is available for the first time as an option for the FABIA. This can be used, for example, to supply power to a dashcam to avoid the cable obstructing the driver’s view. The reading lights in the rear can be conveniently operated from the front – ideal for children travelling in the rear seats who are too small to switch on the lights themselves. Smartphones can be charged inductively thanks to the Phone Box. Also available as an option is a load sill protector that can be folded out when the boot lid is open. It prevents paintwork scratches, while its reflectors provide additional safety while loading the vehicle.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

The construction of the ŠKODA 1100 OHC racing car entered its final phase at the end of 1957. Designated within the company as 968, the vehicle was originally intended for long circuit races. Initially, two open-bodied vehicles were built, followed by two coupés in 1959. The open-top, red-painted racing car is now part of the collection at the ŠKODA Museum in Mladá Boleslav.

In addition to the full selection of images accompanying this press release, the 32-page brochure and a comprehensive collection of articles and features on various topics from 120 years of ŠKODA Motorsport can be found on the ŠKODA Storyboard.

Development of the two-seater sports car began in the spring of 1956 with one clear objective – the racer was to take up where the first and only ŠKODA works car had left off in the prestigious 24-hour race at Le Mans (1950). The model was based on a lattice frame made of thin-walled steel tubes welded together. This distinguished it from its predecessors, the ŠKODA SPORT and SUPERSPORT, which used a modified version of the robust chassis from the ŠKODA 1101 production model. To achieve the best possible handling, the load was optimally distributed over both axles. The clutch, five-speed gearbox and transfer case were installed in the rear, where they formed a cohesive assembly unit.

The drivetrain of the ŠKODA 1100 OHC was a longitudinally-mounted four-cylinder in-line engine with double ignition and two camshafts located in the cylinder head. From a displacement of 1,089 cm3, it generated an impressive output for the time of 68 kW (92 hp) at 7,700 rpm (maximum speed was at 8,500 rpm), which corresponded to a litre capacity of just under 63 kW (85 hp). Originally, the engine ran on high-octane aviation fuel, which was fed into two twin carburettors made by the Czechoslovakian brand Jikov and later by the Italian manufacturer WEBER.

The independent wheel suspension also played an important role; while a trapezoidal wishbone axle was fitted at the front, the rear wheels, spaced 2,200 mm apart, were mounted on a swing axle with trailing arms. The steering, which was as precise as it was direct, was controlled by a three-spoke steering wheel that could be removed to make it easier to get into the car. Another progressive element for the late 1950s was the torsion bar suspension of the 15-inch spoke wheels manufactured by Borrani.

Thanks to the use of glass fibre-reinforced plastic (GRP), the 3,880 mm long, 1,430 mm wide and 964 mm tall racing car weighed just 583 kilograms. This enabled the ŠKODA 1100 OHC to achieve competitive acceleration rates and a top speed of between 190 and 200 km/h, depending on the gear ratio. The low air resistance of the body created by designer Jaroslav Kindl was also a contributing factor.

The combination of practicality and elegance was reflected in the first model variant’s two flip-up headlights, which soon had to be replaced by a more practical solution suitable for racing; the second model featured two fixed headlights mounted under aerodynamic glass covers.

The ŠKODA 1100 OHC clinched an immediate victory at its public premiere; on the municipal circuit in Mladá Boleslav, the experienced works driver Miroslav Fousek won the race at the end of June 1958. Racing drivers Václav Bobek Sen., Václav Čížkovský, Josef Vidner and Jaroslav Bobek also sat behind the wheel in subsequent years. In addition to motorsport events at home, ŠKODA drivers also chalked up successes abroad despite the ŠKODA 1100 OHC only being able to compete in Communist countries due to the difficult political situation at the end of the 1950s and 60s. The plans to take part in the 24 Hours of Le Mans did not come to fruition.

The two vehicles with open GRP bodies, which had been produced at the end of 1957 and the beginning of 1958, were followed in 1959 by two more spacious coupé variants with closed bodies made of sheet aluminium. Nevertheless, the engineers managed to keep the coupés’ weight to only 555 kilograms while maintaining the same top speed.

Both closed ŠKODA 1100 OHCs were destroyed in accidents during private use. However, experts from the ŠKODA Museum’s restoration workshop are currently working on rebuilding one ŠKODA 1100 OHC coupé using surviving components including the frame, chassis and engine.

The open-top versions of the racing car are still intact. The model from the ŠKODA Museum regularly takes part in classic car events at home and abroad. The second vehicle is owned by ŠKODA UK and is used for promotional purposes, primarily in the UK.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

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