Škoda L&K 130: Hybrid Pickup Concept Built for Cyclists and the Tour de France

Skoda’s deep-rooted passion for cycling isn’t just marketing fluff—it’s woven into the very DNA of the Czech automaker. Long before it became known for producing dependable cars, Skoda was a bicycle manufacturer, founded in 1895 by Václav Laurin and Václav Klement. Fast forward to today, and the brand has not only maintained its connection to the cycling world but strengthened it, serving as a long-standing partner of the Tour de France for over 20 years.

In a nod to that heritage and its ongoing commitment to the sport, Skoda has unveiled a fresh concept vehicle designed by the students at the Škoda Academy in Mladá Boleslav. Meet the Škoda L&K 130, a purpose-built support vehicle for cyclists that reimagines the Superb Estate as a hybrid-powered, pickup-style ride tailored specifically for bike races.

From Estate to Support Truck: The L&K 130 Transformation

This year’s student-built concept marks the first time the Škoda Academy has used the Superb Estate as a foundation, and the transformation is nothing short of radical. The L&K 130 morphs the elegant estate into a rugged, lifestyle-ready pickup with an extendable bed. It’s equipped with integrated bike racks capable of carrying two bicycles in the rear bed and another on the roof—perfect for mobile support during grueling race stages.

But this isn’t just about hauling bikes. Skoda’s student engineers thoughtfully reimagined the cabin and exterior to serve the unique needs of a pro cycling team. One standout feature is the sliding rear passenger door, engineered for safe operation alongside moving cyclists during a race, clearly designed with practical, real-world use in mind.

Smart Interior for Cycling Enthusiasts

Inside the L&K 130, utility meets innovation. The rear left seat has been replaced with a built-in cool box, ideal for keeping drinks or medical supplies chilled. Passengers also get dedicated displays to monitor cycling performance data, ensuring the team stays informed while on the move. To top it off, a clever roof-mounted storage net offers easy access to small but essential items like energy bars, first aid gear, or bike tools—because when every second counts, convenience is key.

Heritage Meets Modern Tech

As the name suggests, the L&K 130 pays tribute to Skoda’s founding duo. Retro-inspired Laurin & Klement badging appears throughout the vehicle, while the eye-catching white, red, and gold livery adds a historic flair to the modern hybrid machine. Under the skin, the L&K 130 is powered by the plug-in hybrid system from the Superb iV, allowing it to cruise in whisper-quiet EV mode—an ideal feature for use during professional cycling events where silence and efficiency matter.

Debuting at the 2025 Tour de France

Skoda’s L&K 130 will make its public debut at the 2025 Tour de France, where it’s expected to turn heads not just among car lovers, but among cycling fans too. It stands as a testament to Skoda’s dual passion for mobility and cycling, and showcases what’s possible when young minds are empowered to design with both heritage and innovation in mind.

The Škoda L&K 130 isn't just a cool one-off—it's a rolling homage to over a century of shared passion between two wheels and four. Whether you're a diehard cycling supporter or a car enthusiast with a love for clever concepts, this hybrid support pickup strikes all the right chords.