New Skoda Bicycle Models Launched For 2011 Summer Season

Just in time for the current summer season, SKODA Genuine Parts presents a new offering of bicycles and cycling clothes.

The current bike range by the Czech manufacturer impresses through its attractive design and perfect technology and ranges from bikes for children to those for trips in the city and the country up to professional racing bikes and carbon mountain bikes. The two-time cyclocross world champion Zdeněk Stybar is the ambassador and face of this collection of products. The new offering is available at all authorized SKODA dealers now.

The two-time cyclocross world champion Zdeněk Stybar will act as the ambassador and face of the new SKODA bikes. His opinion vouches for the quality of the collection: "The new offer is as varied as never before. There is something for every taste and every need. The latest technology paired with an attractive design – that's what people expect of SKODA. That is 'simply clever'," emphasizes Stybar, who has been dominating the cyclocross world championship during the past two years.

A total of seven bicycle types can be chosen from. The bikes were developed in cooperation by the company Superior. Clothes and accessories, bearing the new corporate logo for the first time, were developed by the company KalaS. Cycling friends have already been familiar with and appreciate the bikes made by SKODA Genuine Parts for a long time as this is already the ninth collection by the Czech manufacturer.

The brand thus underscores its close association with cycling, currently expressed through the sponsorship of the Tour de France and the Giro d'Italia, among others. From a historical viewpoint, SKODA has a particular relationship with bicycles anyway: In the year 1895, before the first automobile was built in Mladá Boleslav, company founders Laurin & Klement manufactured bicycles. The current, new top model by the Czechs is the mountain bike Super 2000. For the first time ever, a SKODA mountain bike has a carbon frame.

The design in the colors of the rally car Fabia Super 2000 pays homage to SKODA's victory in the rally series IRC (Intercontinental Rally Challenge) in 2010 and to the successes of the brand in the rally sport. The mountain bike Fabia Rs. also centers on the motor sports activities of the manufacturer and bears the name of the fastest street Fabia ever. Fans of demanding trips "in the rough" will receive a lot of enjoyment from the Fabia Rs. The mountain bike will be at home even on the most demanding terrain and is equipped with SRAM X-Z components.

Friends of street cycling will get their money's worth with the model Mont Ventoux. The name says it all and is a reference to the primary purpose of this high-tech bike. The weight of the bike amounts to only 7.9 kilogram. The light alloy frame and the front fork are made of carbon (Carbon UD). The use of high-quality brand components will make the heart of every cycling enthusiast beat faster. For the first time, SKODA offers a model in the category "city bike" – a type of bike that is particularly popular in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

The bike with the name Tour convinces through comfort and liveliness, in particular regarding trips through town and over shorter distances. The designation "Tour" was chosen based of the popular vehicle Octavia Tour. Contrary to that, the cross model Octavia is more suitable for longer trips. But SKODA also has a two-wheel offer that is appropriate for children. The entry-level model is the children's bicycle My First SKODA. With its 20" wheels, the next higher model Race offers a perfect opportunity to switch to a larger model later.

Source: Skoda

Top Used Cars: Best 10 Used Cars for You

Since car sales have been on a high in the past year, moving up briskly since the 2008 economic downturn, it has directly affected the used car market. Now, more cars are ending up for resale at a much faster pace, which is why it's the right time to haggle for the best bargains.

With car prices set to soar in the new year, it's a good time to scrounge around for discounts and deals. If, however, you are driven by the desire for higher savings, you can opt for a pre-owned car. You will not only have the satisfaction of owning a vehicle but, more importantly, at a much lesser price.

Since car sales have been on a high in the past year, moving up briskly since the 2008 economic downturn, it has directly affected the used car market. Now, more cars are ending up for resale at a much faster pace, which is why it's the right time to haggle for the best bargains. Here's a look at cars in different segments, all under Rs. 10 lakh, to help you decide which one to pick. You can get an even lower price depending on the mileage and car's condition.

1. Hyundai Santro

The best small car not to sport a Maruti badge. A perfect combination of fuel efficiency, reliability and enough torque for driving around the city.

Why should I buy? Because everyone has a Maruti and you don't want one. It has a better build and features than other cars in this price segment and the Korean manufacturer has proved itself on reliability over the past decade.

Is it fuel-efficient? In one word, yes. It gives a mileage of about 14 km per litre (kmpl) in the city. The Hyundai service network is second only to Maruti's and the spare parts are cheap too.

How is the ride? The ride quality isn't the best, but is par for the course. It has ample headroom, though the rear seat isn't very comfortable.

Will it break the bank? Prices are on the lower side and you can easily find a two-year old model in good condition.

2. Hyundai i10

The second hatchback option also comes from Hyundai's stable. It was launched as Santro's replacement and is made in India for global usage.

Why should I buy? Because Santro is too old and the i10 looks sleeker. It also has a more powerful engine and comes loaded with accessories.

Is it fuel-efficient? Yes, again. The Kappa model will run about 16 km per litre, while the older 1.1 iRDE model will give you 14 km.

How is the ride? It has a good suspension, which ensures a smooth ride on bumpy roads. For a small car, it's also quite stable at high speeds.

Will it break the bank? It's a well-built car and offers value for money. The launch of the latest version of the 1.2 Kappa model means you might get the older one for even less.

3. Maruti Swift

The best big hatchback. It's fun to drive, good to look at and fuel-efficient. Though it has been five years since its launch, there's still a waiting period for the car.

Why should I buy? A good option if you want a spacious hatchback while sticking to the Maruti family.

Is it fuel-efficient? The petrol model offers a mileage of 12 kmpl, while for the diesel one, it is almost 16 kmpl. The Maruti service network is the most widespread and is known for the easily available, cheap spare parts.

How is the ride? It's a sporty car and comfortable to drive. Rear passengers may find the space a little constricted. Avoid buying a tuned or modified car as it could be rife with problems.

Will it break the bank? Maruti's star performer will give you good value for your money.

4. Maruti Alto

If words like 'fuel efficiency' and 'no frills' appear on your priority list, it's the car to go for.

Why should I buy? Because you want a reliable, timetested vehicle without straining your wallet.

Is it fuel-efficient? The puny engine's fuel requirement is lower compared with other cars and you can extract as much as 18 kmpl from it. Maintenance is Maruti's forte and the after-sales service is good.

How is the ride? The Alto isn't very spacious and its seats are not the most supportive. However, the small size is a boon in metros where parking hassles are aplenty.

Will it break the bank? Not at all. However, make sure you don't buy one which has clocked too many miles.

5. Chevrolet Spark

In 2007, Chevrolet resurrected the Daewoo Matiz as the Spark, retaining the same lines. The latter's USP has been its reasonable price.

Why should I buy? Because it's cheap, and if you buy a recent model, you could avail of the threeyear free maintenance package that Chevrolet offers on new cars.

Is it fuel-efficient? The Spark can run 15 km on a litre of petrol and the 'no maintenance charge' offer is also financially attractive. Spare parts are affordable too.

How is the ride? The peppy engine makes it easy to handle the car. However, the seats are cramped and can comfortably seat only four passengers.

Will it break the bank? Not if you buy a relatively new model. However, make sure that the car hasn't been abused by the previous owner. There is a tendency to drive a car hard and carelessly because it's cheap to buy and run.

6. Tata Indica

The first hatchback from Tata Motors captivated the audience when it was first shown at the 1998 Auto Expo and has witnessed a number of upgrades.

Why should I buy? Because you need a diesel vehicle for highways and don't have the money for a Swift. The Turbo has a turbocharged diesel engine, which provides more power.

Is it fuel-efficient? The Xeta petrol gives a mileage of almost 12 kmpl, the diesel version gives 14 kmpl, and for the Turbo, it is about 13 kmpl.

How is the ride? Opt for the diesel car if you can live with the cheap plastic and engine noise. It is very comfortable and the ride quality is good.

Will it break the bank? The diesel version won't.

7. Honda City

The best petrol-powered sedan in India, it's three generations old but shows no sign of slackening. The second generation car was launched in 2004 and is now easily available as a pre-owned vehicle.

Why should I buy? Because the Honda brand commands respect internationally. The second generation sedan is one of the most comfortable.

Is it fuel-efficient? The engine is powerful and frugal, giving about 12 kmpl in the city and 17 kmpl on the highway.

How is the ride? It is spacious, with a 500-litre boot, and the quality of plastic is very good.

Will it break the bank? If you drive more than 100 km a day, a diesel car would be a better buy.

8. Skoda Octavia

Skoda's first offering in India was launched in 2001 and gave it the luxury image and brand loyalty which rival that of a Honda.

Why should I buy? Because it leads the pack when it comes to smooth ride and handling.

Is it fuel-efficient? The 90 bhp, 1.9-litre TDI diesel engine is very efficient and gives a mileage of about 13 kmpl.

How is the ride? The build quality is one of the best and the ride and handling are smooth. It's very spacious with a 560-litre boot.

Will it break the bank? The diesel model offers more value than the petrol version due to the lower running cost. However, this version is more likely to have run a fair bit too.

9. Mahindra Scorpio

The first modern SUV from Mahindra was launched in 2002 and has been upgraded regularly.

Why should I buy? Because it's bigger than a sedan and seats more people in comfort than a three-box. The butch design has been selling well, even in the used car market.

Is it fuel-efficient? Diesel cost means that even a low efficiency of 7 kmpl with the old engine won't pinch. The mHawk is only a little more efficient at 8 kmpl. Buy a relatively recent model, if possible, and preferably the mHawk, which has an updated cabin.

How is the ride? The extra room is a boon, especially for long trips. There is also an automatic gearbox that you can install, but finding one is difficult.

Will it break the bank? Not if you opt for an older model, though even the oldest mHawk model costs more than the newer other versions.

10. Ford Endeavour

The XXXL SUV is among the few luxury diesel SUVs available in India. Its extra wide tyres make it one of the best vehicles for off-road driving.

Why should I buy? Opt for it only if you plan to go dune bashing or exploring jungles. Or if you want to intimidate others on the road.

Is it fuel-efficient? Again, the low cost of diesel helps to curb running costs. However, the 2.5-litre diesel version will barely run 8 kmpl, while the 3-litre one will give 7 kmpl.

How is the ride? The large proportions mean there is no dearth of space and seven people can fit in easily.

Will it break the bank? The older models will be cheaper, while the 4WD 3-litre SUV will be expensive.

Courtesy: Auto Build

Source: Money Today

Skoda's 20th Anniversary of Association With Volkswagen

The 20th anniversary of one of the most successful associations in the history of the automobile is celebrated this week: On April 16th, it will be 20 years since the beginning of the cooperation of the Czech automobile manufacturer Skoda Auto with Europe's largest automobile group Volkswagen.

The entry of Volkswagen is linked with the rapid rise of the brand with the winged arrow as an internationally successful manufacturer. Since 1991, Skoda has quadrupled its worldwide sales under the group umbrella of Volkswagen and has expanded its vehicle range from one product in 1991 to currently five model series.

In the coming years, the manufacturer wants to continue boosting the growth course and increase sales to at least 1.5 million units per year in 2018. In order to achieve this, Skoda invests massively in new products and new markets, particularly in the countries of China, India, and Russia. At the same time, the company wants to continue to strengthen its strong position in the Czech and European markets.

"Together, Skoda and Volkswagen have written a chapter of economic history. Back then, 20 years ago, few people believed in such a brilliant development of this brand. And at the time, hardly anybody thought it possible for Czechs and Germans to work together so well and in such a cooperative manner," said the Volkswagen CEO and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Skoda, Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn.

"The development of Skoda since Volkswagen's commitment has been unique in the automobile industry," emphasizes Skoda's Chairman of the Board, Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. "It was nothing less than the rebirth of a legendary automobile brand located in the heart of Europe. Under the umbrella of the Volkswagen Group, the brand was given new life and started a successful comeback.

It was an extremely farsighted decision by the Volkswagen Group as well as the economically and politically responsible movers of the Czech Republic at the time to give this German-Czech alliance a chance. The company has utilized this opportunity in a remarkable fashion and wants to increase its performance even further in the next years," said Vahland. In this context, Vahland also thanked the Supervisory Board of Skoda led by the Volkswagen CEO Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn for its energetic support.

The rapid rise of the company is impressively illustrated by the development of the model range. Whereas Skoda built only one model - the Favorit - in 1991, the manufacturer stands for a whole range of modern vehicles today. Whether it is the Fabia, the Octavia, the Roomster, the Yeti, or the Superb - when it comes to spaciousness, comfort, and the price/value ratio, the vehicles made in the Czech Republic are setting standards in their respective segments. They jump from sales record to sales record: In 2010, for the first time ever, more than three quarters of a million customers bought a Skoda with the claim: "Simply Clever".

Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn: "The Skoda brand stands for driving pleasure, technology, and quality in a first-rate price/performance ratio. That is the core of "Simply Clever". And with this positioning, Skoda is a strategic spearhead for our Group."

The international presence of the company has also developed in an exceedingly successful fashion in the past years. At the start of the nineties, the Czech brand was still focused on its domestic market and European countries. Today, Skoda has long been established in markets beyond Europe and sells its products in more than 100 countries. This effort was accompanied by a push into uncharted territories during the last ten years: In 2001, production was launched in India. And since 2007, the company has enjoyed a very successful presence in China. That country has become its strongest foreign market by now and contributed about a quarter of the brand's sales in 2010.

Skoda also values the commitment of its 25,000 employees worldwide as well as the employee representatives as an essential guarantor of the rise of the brand. Prof. Vahland: "In the last two decades, our team has given an extraordinary performance. It has actively and with great dedication supported the necessary changes and shaped them. I salute our employees and the employee representatives and thank them for their outstanding and responsible commitment. With his or her performance, everyone contributes to the success of the company."

On the basis of the successes of the last 20 years, the manufacturer is taking aim at new goals now: "Within the framework of the Skoda Growth Strategy, we want to at least double our sales in the next years and sell at least 1.5 million vehicles worldwide in 2018," explains Winfried Vahland. The core of the growth plans is an even greater internationalization of the company. In the future, the manufacturer wants to achieve more than half of its sales outside of Europe. Particularly in the growth markets of China, India, and Russia, Skoda wants to make significant gains. To achieve this, the model range is to be greatly expanded in the next years. "We will set standards for spacious vehicles with the best price/value ratio and clever ideas in the important markets of the world," Vahland emphasizes.

Furthermore, the manufacturer plans to clearly strengthen its local commitment in the important markets. Thus, the compact SUV Yeti will also be produced in China beginning in 2013. "We want to clearly increase our activities in China und in other growth markets," said the head of Skoda. He emphasized that in doing so the European market will remain unchanged for the company: "Europe and the Czech Republic remain our home base. With a successful development in the international growth markets, we also strengthen our good position at home."

Skoda & Volkswagen: Highlights of 20 Year Old Success Story:

1990/1991

Following the political change, Skoda begins searching for a strong western partner. Besides Volkswagen, GM, BMW, and Renault are making a pitch. The primary interest of the foreign manufacturers is aimed at the front wheel drive technology of the Skoda model Favorit.
In December 1990, the Czech government awards the Volkswagen Group with the deal. On April 16th, 1991, the agreement takes effect. A new era begins for the company.

1994
The Favorit is replaced with the new model Felicia. With regard to quality and styling, the vehicle meets international standards.

1995
In mid-February, the foundation stone for the production facility for the new middle class model Octavia is laid in Mlada Boleslav. A new hall for the paint shop is built as well. The factory in the Northern Bohemian town of Vrchlabí is modernized. The investments by the Volkswagen Group in these and other measures correspond to 20 percent of all the foreign investments in the Czech Republic.

1996
At the end of April, the one-millionth Skoda vehicle since the entry of Volkswagen is built.
On September 3rd, 1996, the new manufacturing plant for the Octavia is ceremoniously opened.
With the Octavia, the manufacturer introduces the second model series.

1998
The success of the brand increases. In January of 1998, the company receives the name Skoda Auto a.s. and becomes the largest industrial company in the Czech Republic. In the same month, work starts for the construction of a new car body manufacture with a capacity of 1200 car bodies per day.
In May of 1998, the ground-breaking ceremony for the new Skoda Parts Center takes place.
In November, the construction of a model customer center and the hall for the production of engine and transmission components with an annual capacity of half a million units starts.
For the first time, Skoda produces more than 400,000 vehicles per year (1998). They are exported into 70 countries.
The Octavia is supplemented with a station wagon version.

1999
A further expansion of the Octavia range with a four-wheel version
In April of 1999, the new Research and Development Center is opened, strengthening the autonomy of the Technical Development Department
As the third model, the new Fabia is introduced on the market. It is immediately awarded with the "Golden Steering Wheel" in Germany.

2000
The Volkswagen Group becomes the hundred percent owner of the company.
The station wagon version of the Fabia is introduced.

2001
The internationalization is boosted. Skoda starts its production in Aurangabad, India.
The Superb is launched in the market.

2002
Sales on the Indian market begin.
In Kvasiny, Czech Republic, a new plant is opened.

2003
Skoda builds the four-millionth car in Mlada Boleslav since the entry of Volkswagen.
The Octavia II is launched in the market.

2005
The newly expanded Logistical Center for original parts and accessories in Mlada Boleslav begins its operations.
On November 1st, the Czech automobile manufacturer builds the five-millionth vehicle since 1991.

2006
For the first time, the annual production exceeds the amount of 500,000 vehicles.
Skoda ventures onto the Chinese market
As the fourth model series by the manufacturer, the smart space marvel Roomster is launched

2007
In Shanghai, the brand opens its first exclusive dealership in China and begins the licensed production of Skoda vehicles together with Shanghai Volkswagen.
The new Fabia enters the market and seamlessly continues the success of its predecessor.

2008
In March, the new Superb celebrates its world premiere. With that model, Skoda picks up the tradition of the model series from the 1930s and ventures into the upper middle class.
In a joint venture with Volkswagen, an assembly line in the Russian town of Kaluga is prepared.
Skoda proves its social commitment with the ceremonial opening if the educational center "Na Karmeli" in Mlada Boleslav. The Skoda Academy is located there as well.
The first, particularly environmentally-friendly vehicles of the GreenLine series are introduced in the market.

2009
At the Geneva Motor Show, the new Yeti is presented as the 5th model of the brand.
The number of vehicles built since the entry of Volkswagen exceeds seven million units.
The production of the Octavia in the Russian town of Kaluga begins at full depth.

2010
For the first time, the manufacturer exceeds the threshold of three quarters of a million sold vehicles.
For the first time, the manufacturer presents an electric vehicle - the concept car Octavia Green E Line - at the Paris Motor Show.
In December, Skoda and Shanghai Volkswagen sign a license agreement for the production of the Yeti in China, beginning in 2013.
Skoda Motorsports wins the world championship of the rally series "International Rally Championship".
With the Skoda Growth Strategy, worldwide sales are to be doubled to 1.5 million units by the year 2018.

2011
The manufacturer celebrates the jubilee "110 Years of Skoda Motorsports".
A new corporate design and the newly designed company logo are launched, marking the setting out of the company to new horizons.
The design study VISIOND gives a preview of the future design architecture of the brand.
20-year anniversary of the cooperation with Volkswagen.
Other Facts and Figures:

Skoda Chairmen of the Board since 1991:
Ludvík Kalma: from April 16, 1991
Vratislav Kulhanek: from April 16, 1997
Detlef Wittig: from October 1, 2004
Reinhard Jung: from October 1, 2007
Winfried Vahland: from October 1, 2010

Skoda Models Since 1991:
Skoda Favorit - 1987
Skoda Forman - 1990
Skoda Pick-up - 1991
Skoda Felicia - 1994
Skoda Pick up - 1995
Skoda Octavia - 1996
Skoda Fabia - 1999
Skoda Octavia Station Wagon - 1998
Skoda Fabia Station Wagon - 2000
Skoda Fabia Sedan - 2001
Skoda Superb - 2001
Skoda Fabia WRC - 2003
Skoda Octavia II - 2004
Skoda Octavia Station Wagon II - 2004
Skoda Roomster - 2006
Skoda Fabia II - 2007
Skoda Fabia Station Wagon II - 2007
Skoda Superb II - 2008
Skoda Yeti - 2009
Skoda Superb Station Wagon- 2009

Source: Skoda

Skoda India in Association With Pantaloons Femina Miss India 2011

- Three winners of Pantaloons Femina Miss India to be awarded the All New Skoda Fabia.

SkodaAuto India, a fully owned subsidiary of SkodaAuto a.s., Czech Republic (Volkswagen Group), one of the premium automobile manufacturers in India today announced its association with India’s most prestigious beauty pageant - Pantaloons Femina Miss India 2011.

Skoda’s stylish hatchback the All New Skoda Fabia will be the official car partner for the Pantaloons Femina Miss India 2011. Through this association, the three winners of PFMI 2011 will be awarded the Skoda Fabia as the pageant’s grand prize.

Talking about this association, Thomas Kuehl, Member of the Board, Sales and Marketing, SkodaAuto India said, “We are pleased to announce our first ever association with India’s most successful and credible beauty pageant - Pantaloons Femina Miss India 2011.

The All New Skoda Fabia known for its unmistakable style and fabulous looks makes for a perfect match with the beauty pageant encompassing flawless blend of style and substance. We believe that this partnership is a step in the right direction to enhance Skoda Fabia’s lifestyle positioning.”

Miss India is a national beauty pageant in India, one of the most recognized contests to produce internationally acclaimed beauty queens. The Pageant winners represent India on three prominent platforms Miss World, Miss Earth and Miss International.

Source: Skoda Auto India

Skoda India Sales Up 65% in March 2011

SkodaAuto India, a fully owned subsidiary of SkodaAuto A.S., Czech Republic and one of the most promising automobile companies in India, today announced a sales growth of 52% for quarter ending March’11 over the same period last year.

SkodaAuto India’s total sales for Q1 of March’11 stood at 8346 units against 5510 units in quarter ending March’10. SkodaAuto India’s total sales for March’11 stood at 3009 units against 1824 units March’10.

The beginning of 2011 has been very encouraging for Skoda Auto as it recorded a healthy surge in sales figures. This growth graph is the result of many initiatives by the company, primarily the expanding dealer network and robust after sales initiatives.

Speaking about the quarterly numbers Thomas Kuehl, Board Member, Sales and Marketing, SkodaAuto India said, “We are extremely happy with our first quarter growth of 52%. The results reflect the prominent presence of SkodaAuto in the Indian automobile market and acceptance of our value for money products in the country. The growth trajectory is the testament of Skoda’s commitment towards consumers through leading technology, superior build-quality and valuable services.”

SkodaAuto India recently inaugurated its second 3S facility in Goa and increased the number of authorized dealerships to 80, covering 52 cities and towns in India.

Source: SkodaAuto India