In 2025, the Technical Development Division focused not only on advancing Škoda products, but also on enhancing its own facilities and internal processes. Standout developments included the launch of the Fabia 130, a model developed to mark the brand’s 130th anniversary in record time, the all-new Škoda Vision O concept, signalling the near future of estate cars, and an updated iteration of the Škoda Enyaq RS Race electric racing concept. The current Škoda Fabia RS Rally2 also enjoyed another highly successful season. The year also involved intensive preparation for a broad set of legislative requirements essential to maintaining stability across the Division’s development pipeline.
Emissions and Legislation
Expansion of the emissions laboratory
The Company’s emissions laboratory carries out type-approval, development, and conformity-of-production measurements for Škoda vehicles and other Volkswagen Group brands. In 2025, its technological equipment was expanded to meet the requirements of the Euro 7 (EU7) standard for both laboratory testing (WLTP) and real-driving emissions (RDE).
EU6 EB and EU7 emissions regulations
In 2025, Škoda Auto successfully completed the homologation of its portfolio under the updated Euro 6e (EU6 EB) standard. This underscores the Company’s ongoing commitment to innovation in support of a more sustainable future, as well as its readiness for the forthcoming EU7 standard.
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Expansion of software and powertrain development capabilities
In 2025, Škoda Auto further strengthened its Group-wide capabilities in powertrain software development, including on-board diagnostics for the EA211 engine family used both in conventional vehicles and in hybrids (mHEVs, PHEVs, and HEVs). Within the Volkswagen Group, it also assumed responsibility for the functional safety of engine software. The Company additionally worked on new powertrain functions, driven both by innovation and by the need to meet legislative requirements such as EU7.
Development of new tyres
In 2025, Škoda Auto focused on reducing tyre noise in line with UNECE Regulation R51.03 on noise emissions. The stricter requirements lowered the limit from 70 dB(A) to 68 dB(A). To ensure that an entire vehicle remains below the 68 dB(A) threshold, the Volkswagen Group introduced an internal tyre limit of 66 dB(A). In response, Škoda Auto developed new tyres for both its own models and models of other Volkswagen Group brands on the MQB27 platform. Besides reducing noise levels, these tyres also meet high standards for driving dynamics, braking performance, and comfort.
UK type approval
Following the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union, the UK market temporarily accepted vehicles approved under EU type-approval rules. However, all-new models launched since February 2024, and all vehicles sold as of February 2026, must obtain dedicated UK type approval. In 2025, Škoda Auto successfully completed the certification of its model portfolio, allowing it to continue offering and selling its vehicles in the UK.
Patents
Škoda Auto’s Technical Development Division has long been among the institutions with the highest number of patent applications in the Czech Republic. By filing patents and utility models, the Company protects its intellectual property and safeguards its competitiveness. In 2025, it filed 81 applications, of which 74 were priority applications and 7 were extensions abroad. Patents recently granted to the Company include the illuminated radiator grille assembly used in the second-generation Škoda Kodiaq. The Company’s patent activity extends beyond Technical Development Division, with Production and Logistics also making a substantial contribution.