Iconic car brand to REVIVE ‘minimalistic’ hatchback loved in the ’80s – but with a modern twist
MOTORISTS can now get their hands on an iconic ’80s design – but with a modern twist.
The car has been redesigned and modernised, while keeping all of the much-loved original features.
Bringing it into the future with a new electric model, Skoda has reimagined their popular Favorit hatchback.
The updated version is based on the original 1987 version, retaining its retro feel without cliche features.
Its electric model was design by Ljudmil Slavov and took around 120 hours of his own time.
He said: “I wanted to update the original idea for today, when various SUVs are popular.”
Ljudmil added: “A higher body structure allows for better battery placement in the floor.”
With a retro design to base the new model on, Ljudmil wanted to “evolve and elevate” the “already minimalistic” features of the 1987 hatchback.
He described this process as “very challenging.”
“I sketched many versions, searched for the ideal shape of the grille and headlights, tried different perspectives and consulted a lot with colleagues,” Ljudmil said.
Some of the features are clearly paying homage to the original design.
Its interior mirror some of the car’s original design features, although we’re yet to see photos of the specific design.
The seats’ headrests are modelled on the open-centred items in the retro model, while brown leather upholstery is used to reference 1980s fashion.
Some of the features Skoda drivers have come to recognise in their newer models are missing, with the ‘Tech Deck’ face being a notable exclusion.
Its wheels are inspired by the placeholders used when the wheels aren’t a prominent part of the design.
The front and rear lights have been modernised with LED running lights and covers hiding the main-beam lamps.
Motorists might be surprised by the rear-hinged doors – a departure from the original design.
This isn’t the first time that Ljudmil has designed a car inspired by the Favorit – in the early 1990s he designed a rally version that achieved success in the World Rally Championship’s F2 class.
The rally design differed from the new passenger version as it was both lower and wider, with unpainted plastic bumpers.
Over the last few years, Skoda has released several cars that were inspired by historic models.
In 2021, they released cars inspired by the 1203 van, Voiturette A, Felica Cabriolet, 130RS and Popular Monte Carlo.
Ljudmil was also responsible for designing the re-imagined Popular Monte Carlo.
