In the mid-1920s, Škoda came up with the 110, which, in addition to the usual body variants, included a special modular option. A combined body was developed that merged the benefits of a 4-seat passenger car with a 500-kg payload two-seater flatbed. The front part of the vehicle, including the front seats, remained fixed, while the rear extension of the utility vehicle could be swapped out quickly and easily.
In 1935, Škoda technicians set off for the mountains to test out new accessories designed to ease the supply of mountain chalets in the winter. Metal skis were attached to the steered front wheels of the Popular, then Škoda’s most popular model, while the rear drive wheels were fitted with chains. Modified with the Simply Clever philosophy in mind, it served as a substitute for ski lifts, which back then were still few and far between.
Škoda’s modern-day top-sellers, the Octavia and Fabia, were the first to come up with smart solutions as we know them today. The Octavia offered vertical positioning of the shelf behind the rear seats. The Fabia introduced the well-known boot nets. Anchor-shaped bag hooks – a patented feature still used today by Škoda and others – first appeared in the sedan.
The Simple Clever tagline was first used at the 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show, where Škoda showcased the Roomster concept car. The concept featured two Simply Clever solutions: a sliding bench and front seats turnable by 180°. Although neither made it into production, the hugely positive feedback from customers kick-started a new era of Simply Clever solutions.
Over time, simple gadgets such as the ticket holder on the A-pillar have been joined by more complex, innovative solutions, such as the second-generation Superb’s unique, patented “twin door” variable boot opening. Depending on what is required, either the boot lid alone can be opened when smaller items are to be stored, or the driver can lift the entire boot lid together with the rear window, allowing bulky items to be loaded.
The range of Simply Clever solutions is constantly growing – and will continue to do so – with every new Škoda. Full-scale teams of specialists from many different departments are involved in development.