Škoda Auto Celebrates 30 Years of Innovation at M13 Production Hall in Mladá Boleslav

Škoda Auto Celebrates 30 Years of Innovation at M13 Production Hall in Mladá Boleslav

(IN BRIEF) Škoda Auto celebrates the 30th anniversary of its M13 production hall, which has played a key role in the brand’s success since its opening in 1996. Originally built to produce the Škoda Octavia, the facility now manufactures both combustion engine and all-electric models, including the Enyaq and Elroq. The M13 line’s flexibility and state-of-the-art technology have enabled Škoda to adapt to changing market demands and maintain high production efficiency, with an annual capacity of 330,000 vehicles. The Škoda k, launched in 1996, remains the brand’s best-selling model.

(PRESS RELEASE) MLADÁ BOLESLAV, 15-Feb-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Škoda Auto commemorates a pivotal moment in its history as the M13 production hall in Mladá Boleslav marks its 30th anniversary. On February 14, 1995, the foundation stone was laid for this advanced facility, setting the stage for the groundbreaking Škoda Octavia model series. The event was attended by Czech President Václav Havel and Volkswagen Group Chairman Ferdinand Piëch, marking the start of an ambitious investment plan following Škoda’s integration into the Volkswagen Group in 1991. The plant, built at a cost of CZK 11 billion, began production in September 1996 and has since evolved into a flexible, state-of-the-art manufacturing site.

The M13 production line remains a cornerstone of Škoda Auto’s operations, with the ability to produce both efficient combustion engine vehicles and fully electric models like the Enyaq and the new Elroq. This adaptability is central to the company’s strategy, allowing it to respond to ever-changing consumer preferences and the growing demand for electric vehicles. Today, the M13 facility has an impressive annual capacity of around 330,000 vehicles, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most efficient production sites in Europe.

Andreas Dick, Škoda Auto’s Board Member for Production and Logistics, remarked, “The foundation of the M13 assembly hall marked the beginning of a new era for Škoda Auto. Thanks to its cutting-edge technology, modular production system, and commitment to sustainability, the M13 production line continues to support Škoda’s success. The flexibility of this facility is key to ensuring we remain at the forefront of the automotive industry.”

The M13 assembly hall, which was constructed in just 18 months under the direction of Munich-based architect Günter Henn’s studio, represents a model of efficiency and innovation. The plant’s modular manufacturing system optimizes the assembly process, reducing costs and increasing productivity. Investments in the pressing, welding, and paint shops further enhanced the facility’s capabilities, while the addition of battery assembly for electric models and Volkswagen Group vehicles created synergies that benefitted the wider business.

The launch of the Škoda Octavia in 1996, the first model to be produced in the M13 facility, was a defining moment for the brand. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s PQ34 platform, the Octavia introduced cutting-edge features like side airbags and electronic stability control (ESP) to Škoda’s line-up. Today, the Octavia remains Škoda’s top-selling model, even as the company celebrates its 130th anniversary.

Media Contact:

Thomas Drechsler
Head of Communications
e: thomas.drechsler@skoda-auto.cz

SOURCE: Škoda Auto a.s