Skoda Superb Combi Transformed into L&K 130 Pickup for Tour de France Support

A one-off student-built concept that blends heritage, innovation, and functionality—ready for the Tour de France

Skoda has always had a close relationship with cycling. Now, the Czech brand takes this passion to the next level with a unique one-off concept: the Skoda Superb Combi pickup, officially named the L&K 130. Created by students from the Skoda Academy, this vehicle was designed from the ground up as a support truck for bicycle racing events—most notably the Tour de France.

It’s a fascinating transformation of Skoda’s most luxurious wagon into a functional, hybrid-powered pickup, loaded with racing tech, clever storage solutions, and nods to the brand’s deep-rooted cycling history.

From Wagon to Pickup: Reinventing the Superb Combi

The base vehicle is the Skoda Superb Combi iV, a plug-in hybrid station wagon that already offers generous cargo space and premium features. But the Skoda Academy students wanted to push the limits. Over the course of more than 2,000 hours, they stripped and redesigned the rear section of the vehicle to create an open cargo bed capable of hauling bicycles, gear, and supplies during endurance races.

To do this, they:

• Removed the upper rear bodywork and re-engineered the C-pillars.
• Installed a custom rear window and a redesigned rear compartment.
• Designed a slide-out tailgate that expands the usable cargo area at the touch of a button.
• Added a new rear passenger-side door mechanism that now features two handles and slides backward, giving easier access for mechanics and team staff.

Though compact, the pickup bed is cleverly engineered. It can hold two full-size racing bikes mounted on racks and includes space for extra gear. A roof-mounted rack provides room for a third bicycle if needed.

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Built with Bike Racing in Mind

Named L&K 130, the concept pays tribute to founders Václav Laurin and Václav Klement, who began building bicycles in 1895—exactly 130 years ago. This is more than just a name; it’s a celebration of Skoda’s cycling legacy.

That legacy shines through in every detail:

• Interior upholstery features red, white, black, and gold accents, matching the vehicle’s exterior livery.
• Seats are embroidered with “130 Years” branding.
• A roof-mounted net provides convenient storage for helmets, gloves, or small accessories.
• A large built-in cooler box ensures hydration during long races.
• Two extra digital screens (one on the dashboard and one behind the seats) display real-time race data.
• An integrated radio system helps the team communicate with cyclists or race officials.

All these features make the L&K 130 not just a concept car—but a fully functional support vehicle ready for elite cycling competitions.

Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain with Practical Range

Despite its dramatic redesign, the L&K 130 retains the Superb Combi iV’s hybrid drivetrain. It combines:

• A 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine,
• A single electric motor,
• For a total output of 201 horsepower (150 kW / 204 PS).

The system is backed by a 25.7 kWh battery, offering an all-electric range of over 100 km (62 miles) in the standard version. Of course, due to added weight and altered aerodynamics of the pickup body, the L&K 130 may offer slightly reduced range. Still, it’s an eco-friendly support vehicle capable of operating quietly and cleanly during race events.

Bold Exterior Design

Visually, the L&K 130 makes an immediate impact. Student designers added several distinct features:

• 19-inch “Supernova” alloy wheels, giving the pickup a sportier, aggressive stance.
• A backlit front grille, matching Skoda’s modern electric design language.
• Custom paint scheme blending gold, red, black, and white—colors traditionally associated with Skoda’s heritage and motorsport involvement.
• L&K branding throughout the vehicle, further linking the concept to Skoda’s origins.

A Decade of Skoda Academy Concepts

The L&K 130 marks the 10th project in Skoda Academy’s student concept series, which began in 2014. Each year, young apprentices collaborate to create a completely unique concept vehicle. Previous builds include:

• Citijet (2014) – a convertible based on the Citigo.
• Funstar (2015) – a Fabia-based pickup.
• Mountiaq (2019) – an off-road pickup based on the Kodiaq.
• Roadiaq (2023) – an electric camper built on the Enyaq.

Concept cars were paused in 2021 (due to the COVID-19 pandemic) and 2024 (for Skoda Academy workshop renovations), making the 2025 L&K 130 a long-awaited return to form.

Tour de France 2025: Real-World Debut

The L&K 130 will officially debut at the 112th edition of the Tour de France, running from 5 to 27 July 2025. It will be on display as part of Skoda’s continued sponsorship of the world’s most prestigious cycling event—a partnership that has lasted for over 20 years.

Whether it joins the actual race convoy or serves as a showpiece, the concept reinforces Skoda’s deep integration in the cycling world, combining sustainability, tradition, and design innovation in one cohesive project.

What It Means: From Hobby to Brand Identity

This concept goes far beyond being a student project. It showcases:

• How traditional automakers can tap into lifestyle segments (like cycling) to reinforce brand identity.
• The potential of modular platform design—adapting one body style into an entirely different use-case.
• A focus on youth involvement and education, proving that fresh ideas can come from future engineers.

For fans of clever builds, hybrid powertrains, and practical innovation, the Skoda Superb Combi pickup is a case study in design freedom and smart engineering.

Key Specs of Skoda L&K 130 Pickup

Conclusion: More Than Just a Car

The L&K 130 may be a one-off, but it highlights Skoda’s heritage, creativity, and forward-thinking spirit. While it won’t enter production, it sends a strong message: Skoda is willing to experiment and adapt to modern lifestyle needs.

Whether you’re a cyclist, car enthusiast, or design lover, this is one concept worth following on the Tour de France road.