The Skoda Vocational School, part of the Skoda Academy, has been in existence for nearly 100 years and had provided the Czech carmaker as well as the auto industry with fresh graduates each year. 15 technical training courses are currently available, 12 in the form of full-time studies and 3 in the form of follow-up daily studies. The main focus is on mechanical and electrical engineering, with a special emphasis on future-oriented technologies.
In recent times, the Skoda Vocational School has held an annual project which sees students create a one-off model. The project encourages the students to take unconventional, clever approaches and to do things differently, yet in a highly purpose-driven way.
Mobile office cum camper van
This year, the ninth Skoda Student Car is a multifunctional mobile-office camper developed by 29 apprentices. Called the Rodiaq and adapted from the Enyaq, it is a battery-electric all-wheel-drive vehicle for digital nomads who can go wherever they wish for work or leisure.
A modern workspace on wheels, the Rodiaq can also be regarded as a ‘home office on wheels’ as it can transform into a living environment complete with a bed and a small kitchen. Some innovative technology highlights include a built-in 27-inch monitor with integrated docking station and camera as well as a wireless keyboard, mouse and speaker in the living and office area.
Modifications to Enyaq bodywork
To transform the Enyaq into a camper van, the apprentices significantly adapted its body. In addition to a new roof structure, they developed a new tailgate that allows a tent to be attached. The tent attachment provides shelter in bad weather and enables more comfortable use of the kitchen installed in the rear of the vehicle.
Extensive modifications to the entire interior behind the front seats have created a space that can be used for work and also converts to a one-person bedroom in a few simple steps.
The Roadiaq can be connected to an external power supply at campsites or motorhome parks. However, if the journey takes the travellers far away from any electrical supply, there are solar panels to generate energy for the living compartment, allowing extended range to explore.
AWD and almost 500 kms of range
The vehicle has all-wheel drive to tackle rough terrain. The drive uses two electric motors; the rear motor with 150 kW/310 Nm drives the rear wheels while the front motor generates another 80 kW/162 Nm to drive the front wheels. The lithium-ion high-voltage battery has an energy capacity of 82 kWh which allows a range of up to 495 kms.
The project took 9 months, with the apprentices spending over 2,000 working hours on it. As with earlier projects, they received support from numerous experts in the company, including the IT Services and the Sustainable Materials Development departments. External specialists in camper conversions, interior fittings and recycled textiles also offered guidance and assistance.
“The Student Car project is as unique as every single one of the resulting vehicles. The project proves: Skoda Auto is a company that cherishes talented young people and their ideas. We appreciate unconventional, clever approaches and find ways to make things happen,” said Michael Oeljeklaus, Skoda Auto Board Member for Production and Logistics.
