Exactly one hundred years ago, the merger of Laurin & Klement with Škoda laid the foundations for the Czech carmaker’s international success. What began as a rescue of two companies during difficult economic times continues to shape Škoda’s identity to this day.
The history of the engineering works based in Plzeň dates back to 1859. Ten years later it was taken over by engineer Emil Škoda. Under his leadership and bearing his name, the company grew into the largest industrial enterprise in Austria-Hungary and also collaborated with the car manufacturer Laurin & Klement. In the 1920s, both companies faced financial difficulties as a result of the First World War and the collapse of traditional markets. In 1924, the L&K factory in Mladá Boleslav was further damaged by a devastating fire. Václav Laurin and Václav Klement therefore decided to seek a strong strategic partner.
At that time, L&K employed 1,125 people, while Škoda Plzeň had more than 30,000 employees. However, its car production was limited and focused mainly on the licensed manufacturing of British Sentinel steam lorries and Hispano-Suiza luxury cars. Unlike other options under consideration, the merger with Škoda Plzeň guaranteed the continuation of independent car development and production in Mladá Boleslav.
The Legacy of L&K
Although Laurin & Klement was officially removed from the commercial register as an independent manufacturer, the rights to the legendary brand – including its iconic Art Nouveau logo – remain with Škoda Auto. Customers can find it again in Škoda’s highest trim levels. This tradition began in 1995 with the Škoda Felicia Laurin & Klement, which featured leather upholstery, dark blue pearl-effect paintwork, 13-inch retro-style alloy wheels and much more.
Key models from the L&K era continue to inspire Škoda Auto’s designers today. The company’s new office complex also bears the name Laurin & Klement Campus. This year, apprentices from the Škoda Auto Vocational School converted a Škoda Superb Combi into a support vehicle for cycling races. Its name, L&K 130, and its distinctive design likewise recall Škoda Auto’s 130-year history.
