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Škoda L&K 130: the student-built special for cyclists

Škoda L&K 130: the student-built special for cyclists

The Škoda L&K 130 is the tenth anniversary car created by students of the Škoda Auto Vocational School. It also marks several firsts: for the first time, the base for the student car is the Škoda Superb, which has been transformed into a fully functional team vehicle for cycling races.

20. 6. 2025 Mission and vision

Another first for a student-built car is the inclusion of a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The project involved 28 students, who—working alongside Škoda Auto experts, their teachers, and vocational trainers—converted a Superb Combi into a unique pickup truck: a dream come true for passionate cyclists and an ideal partner for racing events. 

The L&K 130 carries two bicycles on a custom rack mounted on the bed and is equipped with all the gear necessary for cycling competitions. This required a number of modifications and some unusual technical solutions.

Škoda L&K 130: žákovský speciál pro cyklisty

To make space for the bikes and allow for quick handling, the students cut off the roof behind the C-pillar. The B and C pillars were reshaped to fit the new body structure, and a partition with a rear window was placed behind the single rear passenger seat (more on that later). This created a cargo area that replaced the original luggage compartment.

The rear section is electrically extendable, allowing easier access to the bikes and simple handling of the two carriers, which are based on genuine Škoda accessories. The carriers are mounted on movable rails, which lift and tilt the bikes at a 35-degree angle when the cargo space is closed. This saves space and gives the L&K 130 a distinctive, stylish look. A third bicycle can also be mounted on the roof rack.

Origins on Two Wheels

Václav Laurin and Václav Klement began their business in 1895 in Mladá Boleslav by manufacturing bicycles. They later expanded to motorcycles and then to cars—vehicles that have since made the Škoda brand known around the world. Today, Škoda honours those roots through partnerships like the long-standing sponsorship of the world’s most famous cycling race, the Tour de France, which the brand has supported for over 20 years.

The student-built special pays tribute to that history not only through its design but also through its special paintwork. The combination of gold, red, white, and black reflects the colours of the Laurin & Klement logo. The car features an illuminated front grille, with RGB LEDs used to ensure the lighting matches the body colour. The interior design follows the same theme: the sport seats have integrated headrests, unique multicolour upholstery, and embroidered “130 Years” logos.

For some custom parts required by the vehicle’s new structure, the students used 3D printing. One such part is the overhead storage net console, ideal for holding energy bars or first-aid supplies. Additional race-ready features include a display on the dashboard in front of the passenger seat, allowing real-time data monitoring to support the racers.

Škoda L&K 130: žákovský speciál pro cyklisty

The single rear seat is accessed via unusually designed doors. The students reengineered the original right rear door of the Superb Combi, so it now swings outward on hinges and slides backward. This design helps ensure cyclist safety—mechanics exiting the vehicle won’t swing doors into the path of oncoming bikes. To ensure rigidity, the door is equipped with two locking mechanisms and even features an unusual detail: two exterior handles.

Škoda L&K 130: žákovský speciál pro cyklisty

The vehicle is also equipped with features the team will appreciate, such as constant internet connectivity, a radio transmitter, and a beverage cooler.

The result of over 2,000 hours of work will be showcased at events including the 112th edition of the Tour de France, taking place from July 5th to 27th this year.

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  1. 2025

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