Skoda L&K 130 Student Car Tested by Tour de France Champions

Andy Schleck and Zdenek Stybar tested the Skoda L&K 130, a student-built Superb Combi hybrid honoring 130 years of cycling heritage during the Tour de France.

Andy Schleck and Zdenek Stybar, both celebrated Tour de France winners, recently tested the anniversary Skoda L&K 130 student car, a project crafted by students of the Skoda Auto Vocational School. Based on the Superb Combi plug-in hybrid, the vehicle pays tribute to the brand’s 130-year history, which began with bicycle manufacturing.

The test drive took place near Lille, where this year’s Tour de France kicked off. The car showcased features designed specifically for professional cycling teams. One of the highlights is an electrically extendable rear platform that allows quick and effortless bike changes during a race. Two bicycles fit onto the platform, with space for a third on the roof.

Inside, the car is equipped with a refrigerator to hand out chilled drinks on the move, permanent internet connectivity, and a Walkie Talkie for real-time communication. A specially designed sliding rear door minimizes the risk of collision with passing cyclists. Overhead, a 3D-printed storage net helps organize essentials, while an additional screen in the cabin displays live race updates.

Visually, the car stands out with a gold, white, red, and black paint scheme inspired by the historic Laurin & Klement logo, complemented by an illuminated front grille. The bonnet bears the L&K emblem, and the interior features sport seats embroidered with “130 Years.”

This project marks the tenth student-built Azubi Car. A team of 28 Skoda Academy students, supported by company specialists, dedicated over 2,000 hours to its development. At the unveiling, all nine previous student cars were displayed alongside the L&K 130, celebrating a decade of this unique initiative.

Skoda has been the main partner of the Tour de France for 22 consecutive years and provided 225 electrified support vehicles for this year’s race, including the iconic “Red Car” for the race director. The company has extended its sponsorship until at least 2028 and suggests that some innovations from the L&K 130 could inspire future official support cars.