Few automotive brands can draw on as much history as Škoda. Landmark cars of the past such as the original 1950s Octavia and the 1930s Superb have provided a constant source of inspiration for Škoda’s design teams developing and refining their modern counterparts. Now, Škoda is shining a modern spotlight on another milestone from its past with the reveal of a new, all-electric reinterpretation of the Škoda 100 – the brand’s first ever million selling model.
The design study was developed by Škoda exterior designer Martin Paclt, and transforms the beloved 1960s original with contemporary proportions, clean surfacing and the brand’s Modern Solid design principles – offering a glimpse of how an icon could look in the 21st century. Admired at the time for its straightforward engineering, reliability and personality, the 100 remains a defining model in Škoda’s story and a long-standing favourite among classic-car fans.
From the beginning of the project, Paclt set out to avoid a retro-themed replica. Instead, the focus was on retaining the core spirit of the original through its overall stance, silhouette and character. The result is a contemporary saloon defined by elegant, uninterrupted surfaces and generous volumes that echo the simplicity of the classic model.
Modern details, including a four-element lighting signature and full-width light strips on both the front and rear bring the car firmly into the present day. These elements pay subtle tribute to the chrome accents and distinctive rear vent of the historic Škoda 100.
One of the concept’s most striking innovations is found at the rear, where Paclt has reinterpreted the original car’s nearly interchangeable front and rear windows. “The similarity between the two was a fascinating starting point. I wanted to explore that connection in a new way,” he says. This led to a bold decision: eliminate the rear window entirely. The absence of glazing allows the rear bodywork to adopt the sculptural qualities of the front, creating a distinctive look. “It’s a break from convention and will definitely spark emotion. That’s exactly what design should do.” The oval graphic framing both ends of the car further references the classic Škoda 100.
This unconventional rear treatment also opened up new technical possibilities. Paclt aimed for a concept grounded in reality, and the windowless rear enabled the integration of a fresh-air intake system positioned above the roofline, supported by discreet vents on the rear wings. “Even an electric vehicle requires cooling. Placing the intake high works efficiently and visually emphasises the technical components behind the cabin. It also nods to the original Škoda 100’s rear-engine architecture,” he explains.
The design journey began with traditional hand sketches. “Pencils and crayons let me explore ideas quickly and see immediately whether something has potential,” Paclt explains. Once the direction became clear, the concept was refined and developed in detail.
Interestingly, the technical basis for the concept was the package of the current Superb. “I realised the new Škoda 100 should be slightly larger and needed to sit with real confidence on its wheels,” he explains. Building on that foundation, Paclt created the 3D model that now represents his bold, modern tribute to an icon of Škoda’s past. Although Škoda has no production plans for the 100 concept, lessons learned during its creation will inform all future projects.
The Škoda 100/110 series became the brand’s first model to surpass one million sales, with 1,079,708 units produced between 1969 and 1977. Building on the foundations of the 1000 MB, it continued the rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout while introducing a more refined and contemporary design. The four-door saloon was praised for its balanced proportions, clever practicality and unexpectedly premium touches for its era, including fold-flat seats offered on L-grade models. Power came from a 1.0-litre four-cylinder engine developing 48 PS in the Škoda 100, while the 1.1-litre Škoda 110 increased output to 53 PS, with LS variants delivering up to 63 PS.
Article source: www.skoda.co.uk