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Hampshire And Isle Of Wight Fire Service Enhances Fleet With Škoda Kodiaq SUVs
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has expanded its fleet with 21 new Škoda Kodiaq vehicles. These SUVs will be used for flexible duty officer transport during operational incidents. The Kodiaqs were selected for their spacious interiors, especially the large and adaptable boot space, and were converted by Škoda's approved converter.
The new Škoda Kodiaqs are the first of their kind to be used by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service. Each vehicle is equipped with a 2.0-litre TDI 200 PS engine, DSG transmission, and all-wheel drive. This combination ensures a balance of performance and efficiency, providing ample power and torque for various duties.
Colin Carter, Fleet Operations Manager at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, explained the choice: "We have opted for a fleet of Kodiaqs largely due to the amount of space on offer inside. The large boot has enough room for all of the equipment required by our flexible duty fire officers, and the option of having the cars converted by Škoda’s approved converters prior to delivery makes it much easier for us to get the vehicles into service."
The Kodiaqs have been customised by Pressfab EVO Limited, one of Škoda’s approved conversion specialists. These modifications include practical load areas with grilles, fire extinguishing apparatus, blue-lights, and fully integrated communications equipment. This ensures that the vehicles meet specific requirements for emergency services.
Škoda offers bespoke emergency service converters across the UK for Ambulance, Police, and Fire and Rescue teams. These conversions integrate emergency services’ communication platforms within infotainment touchscreens and provide 360-degree lighting. Individual conversion needs can also be met through Škoda’s specialist converters.
Škoda's Strategic Vision
Škoda Auto is navigating through the new decade with its Next Level – Škoda Strategy 2030. The company aims to become one of Europe’s top five best-selling brands by 2030 with an attractive line-up in entry-level segments and additional e-models. It leverages growth potential in markets like India, North Africa, Vietnam, and ASEAN regions.
In 2023, Škoda delivered over 866,000 vehicles globally. It has been part of the Volkswagen Group for three decades. The Volkswagen Group is one of the world's most successful vehicle manufacturers. As part of Brand Group CORE, Škoda aims to achieve joint growth with other volume brands within the group.
Global Presence
Škoda operates at three sites in the Czech Republic and has additional production capacities in China, Slovakia, India (through partnerships), and Ukraine (with a local partner). The company employs around 40,000 people worldwide and is active in approximately 100 markets.
The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service will use these new vehicles primarily for attending road traffic collisions and hazardous material incidents. The flexibility offered by these SUVs makes them ideal for such diverse operational needs.
The integration of emergency services' communication platforms within infotainment systems ensures seamless operations during emergencies. Additionally, features like blue-lights enhance visibility during critical missions.
This strategic move aligns with Škoda's broader goals under its Next Level – Škoda Strategy 2030 initiative. By expanding its presence in emergency services fleets across the UK, Škoda continues to demonstrate its commitment to innovation and reliability.
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