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Škoda Auto Supports Tour De France For 21st Consecutive Year With Electric Fleet
This year, Škoda Auto is providing 205 mainly electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles to the Tour de France organisers. The all-electric Škoda Enyaq and the Superb will serve as the 'Red Car' for Tour director Christian Prudhomme. Fans can experience the race atmosphere through various digital and on-location activities organised by the Czech carmaker.
The 111th Tour de France begins on 29 June in Florence, Italy. For the first time, it will not conclude in Paris due to the upcoming Olympic Games. Instead, the race will end in Nice on 21 July. The route covers nearly 3,500 kilometres across 21 stages, involving 176 riders and 205 Škoda support cars.
Since 2004, Škoda Auto has been a steadfast partner of the Tour de France. This year marks their 21st consecutive year as the official main partner. The company also supports the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift for the third year running. In February, Škoda extended its partnership with A.S.O., the event organiser, until 2028.
Martin Jahn, Škoda Board Member for Sales and Marketing, stated: "For over 20 years, Škoda has been closely associated with professional cycling. By extending our agreement until 2028 earlier this year, we demonstrate our firm commitment to A.S.O. and the global cycling community."
The official fleet includes 205 Škoda vehicles that will accompany the peloton of 176 cyclists across four countries: Italy, San Marino, Monaco, and France. The stages include eight flat sections, four hilly stages, seven mountain stages, and two time trials. The route passes through notable regions like the Italian Apennines and French Alps.
Christian Prudhomme will lead the peloton in a specially equipped Red Car featuring a panoramic sunroof and advanced communication technology. This mobile command centre ensures seamless coordination throughout the race.
Engaging Fans Through Digital Platforms
Fans can access exclusive content via Škoda’s social media channels and WeLoveCycling website. They can compete for prizes such as premium bicycles and signed green jerseys. The grand prize is a three-day trip to this year's Tour de France, including a helicopter ride over the route and riding with Andy Schleck.
Former British professional cyclist Cameron Jeffers will provide behind-the-scenes insights under the #whatsyourtourde hashtag on social media channels. Additionally, fans can follow live action through the Tour de France Mobile App powered by Škoda.
Historical Ties to Cycling
Škoda’s connection to cycling dates back to its origins in 1895 when Václav Laurin and Václav Klement founded a bicycle factory in Mladá Boleslav. Today, bicycles and accessories remain part of their product range. The company supports numerous international cycling events and sponsors L’Étape du Tour de France in Czech Republic.
The Czech automaker also plays a significant role in crafting crystal glass trophies for various classifications in the Tour de France. For ten years, they have sponsored the green jersey for points classification leaders.
Škoda Auto aims to be one of Europe’s top five best-selling brands by 2030 through its Next Level – Škoda Strategy 2030 initiative. They plan to expand their line-up with additional e-models while leveraging growth markets like India and North Africa.
In 2023 alone, Škoda delivered over 866,000 vehicles globally. As part of Volkswagen Group for three decades now, they manufacture components like MEB battery systems used across various Group brands.
Employing around 40,000 people worldwide, Škoda operates in approximately 100 markets with production facilities in China, Slovakia, India among others through partnerships within Volkswagen Group.
Their commitment to innovation continues as they navigate new challenges while maintaining strong ties with traditional events like Tour de France that highlight their historical roots in cycling.
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