Škoda designers reimagine classic 100 sedan as modern electric concept

Škoda has unveiled a modern electric reinterpretation of its landmark Škoda 100 sedan, with designers reimagining the brand’s first million-unit model through the lens of its current Modern Solid design language.

The original Škoda 100, produced from 1969 to 1977, became the company’s first vehicle to exceed one million units. Designer Martin Paclt used the model’s enduring popularity as inspiration for a contemporary EV vision that retains the proportions and spirit of the classic sedan.

Paclt says the goal was not to create a retro revival but to preserve the essence of the original through its stance and silhouette. “I wanted to work with a car that people know well—and that many once owned themselves,” he says. He adds that the 100’s clean, timeless lines align naturally with Škoda’s current design direction.

The modern reinterpretation features flowing surfaces, large uninterrupted body volumes and the presence of a more premium, limousine-like sedan. Contemporary cues include a four-element headlight signature, a sculpted bonnet with Škoda badging, and full-width light strips front and rear, referencing the chrome trim and ventilation panel of the original car.

One of the boldest design decisions is the omission of a rear window. Paclt says he was inspired by the similar shapes of the original car’s front and rear glass, mirroring those proportions to create a sculptural rear section. The move is intended to challenge traditional design rules, he says.

The absence of a rear window also enabled Paclt to rethink the layout for an electric drivetrain. Fresh-air intake openings are integrated above the cabin and on the rear guards, supplying cooling air to components positioned behind the passenger compartment.

A rear-wheel-drive layout allowed the front axle to be pushed forward, resulting in a very short front overhang. A primary storage compartment is located under the bonnet, complemented by a smaller secondary space above the rear motor.

Paclt developed the concept from hand sketches into a full 3D model, using the proportions of the current Superb as a foundation before widening the stance to achieve a modern, confident posture. An exterior-design specialist with more than 11 years at Škoda Auto, Paclt has contributed to models including the Enyaq, Karoq, Kamiq and Kodiaq, as well as the Vision X, Vision 7S and Vision O concepts.

Škoda says the Icons Get a Makeover series, which includes this reinterpretation, is a creative exercise by its designers and does not preview any future production models.