Škoda Auto Becomes Europe’s Second-Strongest Car Brand in the First Quarter of 2026

Škoda Auto continued its growth trajectory in 2026: Following a strong first quarter, the Czech car manufacturer has, for the first time, become Europe’s second best-selling car brand. The electric models Elroq and Enyaq were particularly in demand.

Škoda Auto recorded significant growth across Europe in the first quarter of 2026 and, according to the company, established itself for the first time as Europe’s second-strongest car brand. Overall, the company delivered 271,900 vehicles worldwide, representing an increase of 14 per cent compared to the same period last year. In Europe (EU27+4), deliveries rose to 222,500 vehicles, up 17.1 per cent year-on-year. According to data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), Škoda significantly outperformed the overall development of the European car market.

March proved particularly successful: With 90,915 vehicles delivered, Škoda achieved the strongest single month in the company’s history, according to company figures. Germany remained the most important market, with 58,500 vehicles delivered, representing an increase of 26 per cent. Sales figures also rose in the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, India and Poland.

Foto: Elroq | Škoda Auto

Demand for electrified vehicles also grew significantly. In the first quarter, Škoda delivered 63,200 electrified models worldwide — an increase of 71.4 per cent. Of these, 51,800 vehicles were the fully electric Elroq and Enyaq models. The new Elroq in particular developed into a key growth driver: among other achievements, the model became the best-selling electric car in Germany and secured leading positions in several European markets.

The Enyaq also performed strongly and was, among other achievements, the best-selling electric car in the Czech Republic and Switzerland. Overall, Škoda is now among Europe’s three strongest electric car brands. The share of electrified vehicles in total European deliveries rose to 27.3 per cent.

Financially, Škoda Auto recorded the most successful first quarter in the company’s history. Revenue increased to €7.9 billion, while operating profit rose by 20.9 per cent to €660 million. Net cash flow increased by more than 64 per cent to €867 million.

Foto: Enyaq | Škoda Auto

“We have become Europe’s second best-selling car brand — a milestone we can be proud of in this highly competitive environment,” said Klaus Zellmer. He said the success was based on the modern model range, cooperation within the Volkswagen Group, and strong demand in Europe and international markets.

Škoda is also continuing its growth trajectory outside Europe. In India, deliveries rose to 17,400 vehicles in the first quarter. The company also recorded growth in Morocco and Egypt. In India, Škoda benefited in particular from strong demand for the Kylaq model.

At the same time, the manufacturer is continuing to expand its electromobility strategy. At its main plant in Mladá Boleslav, a new hall for the assembly of battery systems was recently opened. In addition, Škoda announced two further fully electric models for this year: the compact SUV Epiq and the seven-seat model Peaq.