ŠKODA AUTO is one of the main backers of the Mobility Innovation Hub. An agency of the Czech government is currently preparing this platform, based on the principle of a public-private partnership. The hub aims to encourage large companies, start-ups, universities, other scientific institutions and public authorities to work closely together when implementing innovative mobility projects. The initiative offers the opportunity for great knowledge to be bundled and shared, and thus to further strengthen the competitiveness of the Czech automotive industry through global innovation in the future. The programme is coordinated by Czech government agency CzechInvest.

ŠKODA AUTO DigiLab has played host to the global online ‘COVID Mobility Race’ hackathon. The theme of this year’s ideas competition, which took place from 4 to 7 June 2020, set the tone: the event was dedicated to the current challenges facing the automotive industry as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. How can a vehicle be bought and delivered whilst following stringent social distancing measures? What options are there for car buyers to virtually view their dream car? And what role will digital mobility services play in the future? 52 teams from 19 countries came up with surprising and innovative answers to these questions. The Israeli team from high-tech company Matter beat its competitors with 3D virtual showroom technology and will now be supported by ŠKODA AUTO DigiLab. Furthermore, the team members have the chance of collaboration with the Czech car manufacturer’s innovation lab.

ŠKODA AUTO has been providing comprehensive and unbureaucratic support in combating the spread of the coronavirus for multiple weeks. Now it’s time to take stock: How has the support been received so far? And how far have the vehicles featuring the #SKODAAUTOpomaha slogan and BeRider e-scooters traveled in the process? What stage in the process is the donation of the 100 ŠKODA OCTAVIAs at? How many respirators have already been produced by ŠKODA’s 3D printers? The answers are revealed below.