Škoda Auto Unveils Elroq Respectline: A Celebration of Diversity and Heritage

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Image Courtesy: Skoda

Škoda Auto has introduced the Elroq Respectline, a concept vehicle featuring a distinctive design aimed at promoting the company’s values of mutual respect, diversity, and inclusion. Unveiled during European Diversity Month, the car also emphasizes the importance of human rights protection and fair treatment for all. The car’s main motif, a stylized “háček” sign from the Czech letter “Š,” pays homage to Škoda Auto’s origins as the company celebrates its 130th anniversary this year.

The Elroq Respectline was developed collaboratively by Škoda Auto employees and will make its public debut at the Best Cars 2025 awards in Hamburg, Germany, on May 9, followed by an appearance at a company music festival in Mladá Boleslav on May 10. The model also celebrates the success of more than 55,000 Elroq orders by the end of April.

Maren Gräf, Škoda Auto’s Board Member for People & Culture, commented, “Diversity, equity, inclusion, and mutual respect are key elements of Škoda’s corporate culture. The Elroq Respectline is an ambassador for these values, showcasing our commitment to fostering a safe and fair workplace for all. We are proud to be a role model in advancing human rights and mutual respect.”

The Elroq Respectline’s exterior design features a bold color palette and the symbolic “háček” from the Czech letter “Š,” reflecting the company’s deep Czech roots and history dating back to 1895. The car’s Tech-Deck grille is enhanced with animated LED rainbow lighting, symbolizing the LGBT+ community and the importance of diversity. This colorful exterior, along with a lively interior design, celebrates the strength that comes from embracing different perspectives and personalities.

Inside, the vehicle showcases a blend of recycled materials and sustainable practices. The use of rainbow embroidery on the seats, distinctive embossing, and vibrant décor elements highlights how diversity can create positive energy. The Respectline is an embodiment of joyful diversity and craftsmanship, encouraging inclusivity through its design.

The Elroq Respectline will be featured at several high-profile events. Its public debut will take place at the Best Cars 2025 awards on May 9 in Hamburg, followed by a performance at Škoda’s music festival in Mladá Boleslav on May 10. Throughout the summer, the vehicle will also be showcased at events like the Metronome Prague music festival, Prague Pride, the Open Air concert by the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra, and during the Tour de France.

Škoda Auto has also partnered with Czech shoemaker Botas to create a special edition sneaker inspired by the Elroq Respectline. These sneakers feature rainbow embroidery and reflect Škoda’s Modern Solid design philosophy. The shoes, which further amplify the company’s message of inclusion and diversity, will be available for purchase through Botas’ e-shop in the coming weeks.

For the fifth consecutive year, Škoda Auto is marking European Diversity Month. In addition to launching the Elroq Respectline, the company is hosting a variety of activities throughout May, including workshops and lectures for employees to further promote diversity and inclusion within the workplace.