This year’s Škoda Student Car project marks a milestone, not just for the students involved, but for Škoda’s legacy itself. The Škoda L&K 130 blends heritage, innovation, and youthful creativity into a unique hybrid support vehicle, celebrating 130 years since Laurin and Klement first began crafting bicycles. Built on the Superb Estate platform, this custom creation connects the brand’s cycling roots with a forward-thinking approach to design and engineering.
A Modern Homage to Škoda’s Cycling Beginnings
The L&K 130’s design and purpose are a respectful nod to the company’s origins. Škoda began in 1895 when Václav Laurin and Václav Klement started building bicycles. Now, more than a century later, the students have created a cycling support car that reflects those humble beginnings with modern engineering and bold design.
Plug-In Hybrid Power with Purpose
This custom Škoda is more than just a showpiece. Under the hood, it’s powered by a 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 204 PS (150 kW). Its 25.7 kWh high-voltage battery allows it to run fully electric, perfect for silently supporting cyclists during races. This is the first time a Škoda Student Car uses this hybrid powertrain, combining performance with environmental awareness.
Custom Pickup Design for Real-World Use
To make it functional for races, the students transformed the Superb Estate into a pickup. They cut away the rear roof section, added a reinforced rear wall, and included an electrically extendable cargo bed. The custom tailgate slides out on a rack-and-pinion system to allow quick access to spare bikes. Standard bike racks from the Škoda accessories range are integrated into the design, and there’s even a roof rack for extra storage.
Unique Right Rear Sliding Door Innovation
A clever touch is the newly developed sliding mechanism for the right rear door. Designed to avoid interfering with cyclists, this door opens along the vehicle’s body instead of swinging out. It’s a small but smart safety solution that reflects real racing needs.
A Cockpit Built for the Cycling Crew
Inside, the L&K 130 is just as impressive. The cabin blends classic L&K red, gold, and black accents with recycled materials. A “130 years” logo is stitched into the sports seats. The support team benefits from displays showing real-time race data, while a built-in radio and cool box keep things practical. Even the roof lining includes a storage net for essentials like energy bars and bandages.
Merging Tradition with Technology
The Škoda L&K 130 is filled with new design elements created via 3D printing. Components like storage net mounts and custom badges were made using additive manufacturing. The result is a car that combines digital craftsmanship with traditional automotive passion.
Students Bring Creativity to Life
This project is more than a technical exercise, it’s a creative journey for the students involved. From concept sketches to physical assembly, the 28 trainees learned what it takes to turn an idea into a roadworthy vehicle. Their effort reflects the continued success of the Škoda Academy, which has trained thousands since opening in 2013.
L&K Spirit Lives On
By naming the car L&K 130, the students honor the pioneers Laurin and Klement. Their early dedication to cycling and engineering laid the foundation for everything Škoda stands for today. With a design that proudly features the classic L&K logo and color scheme, this student creation beautifully ties the past to the present.
Celebrating Innovation and Education
The L&K 130 isn’t just about the car, it’s a celebration of learning, heritage, and innovation. It’s the latest in a series of student-built cars that began in 2014, each showcasing the next generation of talent in automotive design and engineering.
Summary
With the Škoda L&K 130, students have crafted a unique plug-in hybrid support vehicle that pays homage to the company’s cycling roots while embracing cutting-edge ideas. It’s a rolling symbol of how tradition, education, and forward-thinking can come together in one unforgettable build.
Disclaimer: The Škoda L&K 130 is a one-off concept car created by students and not available for public sale or road use.
Source: Skoda
