Škoda Vision O: Back to the roots

Škoda Auto has revealed exterior details of its upcoming Vision O concept. At the same time, designers shared a number of interesting insights about the study, which serves as a preview of the brand’s future estate models. Vision O will be unveiled on 8 September in Munich.

Following the silhouette reveal, Škoda Auto now showcases close-up views of the exterior. The video highlights narrow T-shaped rear lights, a sloping roof with a split rear spoiler, and Škoda lettering along with the Vision O logo on the tailgate.

Other striking features include the bumper design and the new interpretation of the B-pillar, which connects to the rear section of the body. “I was inspired by some of the details from Škoda’s past favourites, such as the Yeti or the Roomster,” explains exterior designer Jounggeen Kim, revealing his inspiration.

Vision O represents the next step in the evolution of the Modern Solid design language. The latest iteration focuses on refined aerodynamics for the all-electric concept. “This modern approach is reflected, for example, in the way we have significantly reduced decorative elements on the car,” adds Kim. Nevertheless – or perhaps because of this – he believes the car will be instantly recognisable at first glance.

“Creating a new interpretation of a vehicle in such an important segment for Škoda was challenging, yet also very rewarding,” says Daniel Edr, Project Manager leading the concept’s development in the design department. “We discussed extensively what makes such a car important for us, but above all, for our customers,” he adds, noting that the design team worked with a wealth of insights gathered directly from customers and from individual dealerships around the world.

In a word

As part of the gradual reveal of the Vision O study, Škoda Auto’s designers were tasked with expressing the concept in a single word or phrase. For Daniel Edr, that word was “back to the roots.” “From my perspective, the car’s simple and purposeful design draws heavily from the first and second generations of the Octavia, returning to the model’s roots – which are above all about functionality,” Edr explains.

“Škoda estate models – whether the Octavia or the Superb – are often used as company cars that also serve as family vehicles on weekends and holidays. That’s why we asked customers what they expect from them, both in their daily professional use and in family leisure time,” says Edr, outlining the philosophy behind the study.

Estate cars from Mladá Boleslav are a personal matter for Edr: “You know, I was born in Mladá Boleslav and have lived essentially all my life in the surrounding area. Škoda has always been close to my heart. While others at my high school dreamed of sports cars, I longed for a first-generation Octavia estate – ideally in the RS version,” he recalls, looking back on his inspiration for the concept.

A word from the Chief Designer

Škoda Auto’s Head of Design, Oliver Stefani, comments on the concept’s appearance: “With Vision O, we are consistently advancing our Modern Solid design language, boosting its emotional appeal and further refining our brand identity. New design concept also highlights our commitment to pushing boundaries and continuously bringing innovation to future automotive design. Clear lines emphasize simplicity, showcasing totally that we remain true to our brand values. Vision O is extremely practical for everyday use and brings surprising and thoughtful details.”

After graduating from university, Edr joined the Škoda Design department, where he worked on the third and fourth generations of the Octavia, including the estate versions. “In 2020, my daughter was born, and I put the fourth-generation Octavia through its paces as a family car,” he says, underlining how significant the Škoda estate is in his own life.

He also led the development of the Enyaq and Elroq electric models. “And now, the circle is complete. From dreaming about this car back in high school, I’ve had the opportunity to work on creating an interpretation of this type of vehicle for customers in the new electric era,” he concludes.