In the fiscal year 2023, Škoda Auto witnessed a noteworthy surge in vehicle deliveries, achieving a total of 866,800 units—an impressive growth of 18.5% compared to the previous year. The brand's strategic foray into the Vietnamese and Kazakh markets in the second half of 2023 reflects its dedicated efforts toward international expansion. Additionally, Škoda is directing its focus towards the Middle East, recognizing the substantial growth opportunities inherent in the region. The inauguration of a fully digitalized showroom in Kuwait marks Škoda's initial foray into the Middle Eastern market, showcasing the brand's new Corporate Identity (CI).
Germany remains Škoda's largest single market, with 157,800 vehicles delivered, reflecting a robust growth of 17.6%. The Czech domestic market also posted a commendable result, with 87,800 deliveries marking a significant increase of 23.4%. The most substantial growth was witnessed in Germany, the UK, and the Czech Republic. The all-electric Enyaq series, recognized as one of the best-selling EVs in numerous European markets, achieved a new sales record since its launch, with 81,700 vehicles sold—a remarkable increase of 52.1%.
Klaus Zellmer, Škoda Auto CEO, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in the Škoda brand by customers. Despite economic and market challenges, the brand's 2023 deliveries demonstrated the success of their strategy, offering customers a range of combustion, electric, and hybrid powertrains during the transition to e-mobility. Zellmer emphasized the robustness of their business model and the importance of staying vigilant in an unpredictable global market.
Martin Jahn, Škoda Auto Board Member for Sales and Marketing, highlighted the brand's substantial 18.5% global delivery growth, amounting to an additional 135,500 cars compared to 2022. In Europe, Škoda secured its seventh-place ranking among leading brands with a 27.4% rise in Western regions. Outside Europe, notable milestones included surpassing 100,000 vehicle sales in India over two years and successful market penetration in Vietnam and Kazakhstan.
In the Middle East, Škoda achieved an outstanding 108% growth in car deliveries for 2023, doubling the figures from the previous year and delivering a total of 2,463 units. The brand's successful integration into the Middle East market was underscored by the opening of the first Škoda showroom outside of Europe in Kuwait. This fully digitalized facility not only strengthens Škoda's presence in the region but also sets new standards for customer experience.
Looking ahead to 2024, Škoda Middle East is committed to expanding its footprint in the region, enhancing brand identity, and growing its dealership network. Collaborating with existing dealers to open new facilities is part of the strategy to broaden Škoda's reach and strengthen its market position. Lukáš Honzák, Managing Director of Škoda Middle East, highlighted the team's readiness to introduce the brand to new markets and emphasized Škoda's commitment to delivering European excellence, innovative features, and exceptional value for money.
As part of its forward-looking strategy, Škoda will introduce the Kushaq Monte Carlo in 2024, strategically expanding its target audience to include younger and more diverse groups. This aligns with Škoda's global vision, emphasizing innovation and the delivery of high-quality vehicles to customers worldwide. For the latest updates, refer to the most recent press release from Škoda's headquarters.
