Skoda Revives Legendary 110R with Electric Vision for Modern Era

Skoda has revealed a modern interpretation of its celebrated 110R coupe, marking the latest chapter in the brand's ongoing exploration of its rich automotive heritage. The concept, created by designer Richard Švec from Skoda's digital modelling team, represents a careful balance between honouring the original's legacy and embracing future mobility trends.

The original Skoda 110R earned its place as a true automotive icon during its production run from 1970 to 1980 at the Kvasiny plant. Built on the foundation of the Skoda 110 sedan, the coupe distinguished itself through its sleek design, rear-mounted engine configuration, and rear-wheel drive layout. With its uprated 1,107cc four-cylinder engine producing 61 bhp and weighing just 880 kilograms, the 110R achieved a top speed of 145 kmph—impressive for its era.

What transformed the 110R from a stylish road car into a genuine icon was its motorsport DNA. The model served as the springboard for Skoda's racing ambitions, providing the foundation for the extreme 200 RS prototype and the legendary 130 RS, one of the most successful rally and circuit racers of its generation. This motorsport connection gave the 110R credibility beyond its elegant appearance, creating what Švec describes as “a combination of style and real motorsport credibility.”

The 110R's iconic status also stemmed from its design philosophy that prioritised clean surfaces and minimal details—principles that resonated with automotive enthusiasts and designers alike. During its decade-long production run, 56,902 units rolled off the production line, making it both accessible and desirable. 

The necessity for this modern concept arises from the automotive industry's transformation towards electrification and contemporary design languages. Švec's vision captures the spirit of the original while addressing current technological and aesthetic requirements. Rather than pursuing a retro approach, the concept integrates subtle nods to the original through Skoda's Modern Solid design philosophy.

The electric powertrain allows for cleaner surfaces and proportions, as traditional cooling systems are no longer required. This technological shift enables designers to maintain the minimalist aesthetic that made the original 110R special whilst incorporating modern elements such as digital mirrors, concealed headlights, and advanced lighting signatures.

The concept demonstrates how classic design elements can inform contemporary automotive development without resorting to pastiche. Flared arches, a visible roll cage, and ribbed bonnet detailing pay homage to the 130 RS, whilst maintaining the geometric precision and clean volumes of the original. The distinctive side air intakes, originally for engine cooling, now serve battery thermal management—illustrating how functional elements can evolve whilst preserving visual continuity. 

This approach reflects broader industry trends where heritage designs provide narrative depth beyond mere functionality. As automotive design has matured beyond expressing basic performance attributes, manufacturers increasingly draw upon their historical catalogues to create richer design stories that connect past achievement with future innovation. 

The 110R concept remains a design study with no production plans, joining other Skoda heritage reinterpretations including the Felicia Fun and Favorit concepts. However, these exercises demonstrate how classic automotive icons continue to influence contemporary design thinking, providing both inspiration and validation for modern creative directions whilst preserving the essential character that made them legendary in the first place.