Škoda Unveils Vision O Concept: Electric Estate with Advanced AI and Sustainable Design

MLADÁ BOLESLAV, Czech Republic, Škoda Auto has unveiled its Vision O concept car, an electric estate vehicle that represents the brand's vision for the future of its popular station wagon segment. The concept showcases the next generation of Škoda's Modern Solid design language and incorporates advanced autonomous driving technology, artificial intelligence features, and sustainable materials.

Customer-Centric Design Approach

The Vision O marks a departure from traditional automotive design processes, as Škoda developed the concept "from the inside out" with a focus on customer experience. The interior features a minimalist design with a new Horizon Display spanning more than 1.2 meters across the dashboard, providing information for both front passengers.

"We designed the Vision O from the inside out - we built our car on customer experiences," said Oliver Stefani, Škoda's Head of Design. "Today we live in a world of noise and complexity and Vision O brings us back clarity and calmness in design and functionality."

The vehicle maintains Škoda's reputation for practicality, offering more than 650 liters of luggage capacity and incorporating "Simply Clever" features such as a portable Bluetooth speaker and an integrated refrigerator.

Central to the Vision O's technology suite is Laura, an AI-powered personal assistant designed to enhance the driving experience. Laura can provide route suggestions, take meeting notes, generate stories for passengers, and offer information about surroundings. The system extends beyond the vehicle through a companion Vision O app.

The concept car includes autonomous driving capabilities that can handle most driving tasks, though human intervention remains necessary in challenging conditions such as heavy rain or reduced visibility. A "Tranquil mode" adjusts seating configurations and ambient lighting to create a more relaxing environment for passengers.

The Vision O's name derives from the concept of circularity, reflecting Škoda's commitment to sustainable vehicle production. The interior incorporates recycled and renewable materials, including seat covers made from 100% recycled polyester and floor coverings created from upcycled leather waste.

"For Škoda, it is a clear target to use recyclable materials and environmentally friendly products as much as possible," stated Karsten Schnake, Member of the Board of Management for Procurement. The concept employs mono-material design principles to simplify future recycling processes.

The exterior features Škoda's evolved Modern Solid design language with a new "Tech-loop" face mask and optimized aerodynamics for extended range. At 4,850mm long, 1,900mm wide, and 1,500mm tall, the Vision O incorporates active cooling vents, hood ventilation, and retractable door handles to improve airflow efficiency.

The lighting system includes "Škoda Cyber Lights" with sliding headlamps and T-shaped LED rear lights that support both aesthetic and functional requirements for autonomous driving mode.

Market Position and Future Plans

Škoda has led the European estate segment since 2016, primarily through the success of its Octavia Combi and Superb Combi models, which have sold more than 3.6 million units combined since 1998. The company plans to launch a production version of the Vision O based on a future Volkswagen Group platform within the next decade.

"At Škoda, our commitment to our customers - who have trusted us as leaders in the estate segment since 2016 - drives us to deliver the Vision O," said Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto. "This vehicle transforms every journey into an effortless, empowering experience while advancing our sustainability goals."

The Vision O concept demonstrates Škoda's strategy to maintain its position in the estate market while transitioning to electric powertrains and incorporating advanced digital technologies. The production model will compete in the premium electric estate segment, building on the brand's established reputation for practical, family-oriented vehicles.

Škoda Auto, part of the Volkswagen Group for over 30 years, delivered more than 926,000 vehicles globally in 2024 and operates production facilities in the Czech Republic, China, Slovakia, India, Vietnam, and Ukraine.