130 Years of Skoda: From Slavia Bicycles to Electric Enyaqs

Explore Skoda's 130-year journey at its museum exhibit in Mlada Boleslav, from historic Laurin & Klement vehicles to modern electric cars. Open until Jan 2026.

To mark the 130th anniversary of Skoda Auto, the Skoda Museum in Mlada Boleslav has unveiled a remarkable exhibition that traces the company’s journey from bicycles to modern electric vehicles. Set within the historic halls where Laurin & Klement once assembled their machines, the display walks visitors through the brand’s rich evolution.

The exhibition opens with a symbolic trio: the Slavia bicycle from 1899, the L&K BZ motorcycle from 1903, and the only surviving L&K BSC car from 1908. These early machines set the tone for the exhibition — it's not just about engineering, but about the passage of time and innovation.

Highlights include standout vehicles that reflect the design and technical ambitions of their eras. The streamlined Skoda 935 Dynamic (1935), the luxurious V8-powered Skoda 860, the elegant Hispano-Suiza (1928), and the iconic 1971 Skoda 110 R coupé all illustrate how perceptions of speed, luxury, and identity evolved over the decades.

Motorsport, a defining part of Skoda’s DNA, is also featured. From the graceful Skoda 1100 OHC Coupé (1959) to the championship-winning Fabia R5 evo driven by Rovanpera and Halttunen in 2019, the racing lineage is unmistakable and proud.

Display cases present accessories, trophies, and memorabilia, while a dedicated section celebrates 125 years of engine development, showcasing crankshaft manufacturing and internal engine components.

An interactive wall traces the growth of the Mlada Boleslav factory through four stories of visual history — from the 1930s expansion to post-war challenges and integration into the Volkswagen Group. A photo booth with figures of founder Vaclav Klement and racer Vaclav Vondrich adds a light-hearted and family-friendly touch.

The exhibition also highlights Skoda’s sponsorship efforts. On show is the 2024 Skoda Enyaq modified as the “red car” for the Tour de France director, along with 14 years of trophies crafted by Skoda Design, as well as cycling and hockey jerseys.

A particularly significant addition is a fully restored 1918 Laurin & Klement Si, originally owned by renowned badge manufacturer August G. Tham from Jablonec nad Nisou — a detail that brings personal history to this mechanical treasure.

The exhibition runs until January 11, 2026, offering both long-time enthusiasts and curious newcomers a vivid journey through the past and present of Czech automotive heritage.