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Skoda sets sights on increasing leasing growth

Henry Williams Skoda on car
Henry Williams - increasing leasing growth

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3 January 2018

Head of fleet Henry Williams explains Skoda’s growth plans for leasing in the coming year with editor Ralph Morton

SKODA is certainly putting itself in the frontline when it comes to SUVs – the increasingly de facto choice for many business and private drivers.

Skoda Karoq arriving January
Skoda Karoq arriving January

First we had the large Kodiaq SUV, with its choice of five or seven seat configurations; now we have the mid-size Karoq featuring three trim levels, four engine options and prices from £20,875 OTR.

First deliveries of the new Yeti-replacing Karoq will be mid-January.

And, without too much of a leap in thinking, expect to see a compact sized Skoda SUV to rival cars such as the Renault Captur and VW T-Roc. But not until 2019.

Not that Henry Williams, Skoda’s head of fleet, is admitting to the final small SUV product.

The key thing moving into 2018 is to develop strategic relationships on all levels with leasing companies

But he does see the two current SUV additions as an exciting development in the growth of the Skoda brand

“We know the market for this type of car is growing – the requirement for a vehicle that can fit a lot in, but has a high seating position.

“The feedback on Karok so far from customers who have driven it and the guide setters has been very positive. I think the challenge for us will be building enough cars. I can see for true fleet this car is going to be very strong.”

And the Kodiak range has been recently expanded with the introduction of SportLine versions, featuring 20 inch alloy wheels as part of the spec, with prices starting from £32,685 OTR and first deliveries expected in February.

Kodiaq Sportline due February
Kodiaq Sportline due February

In the meantime, Henry is keeping his thoughts squarely on what has made the cars – and the Skoda brand – so appealing in the first place.

“Aside from the excellent value for money, reliability, practicality and exceptional build quality, our range of ‘Simply clever’ features in every car,” says Henry.

These can range from a simple bag restraint in the boot of the Skoda Fabia Estate to a hidden rear door umbrella holder in the Superb. “They are little touches, but really appreciated by drivers.“

So for now, the key models going through the leasing companies are:

  • Skoda Octavia
  • Skoda Superb
  • Skoda Fabia
  • Skoda Yeti

Indeed, fleet industry body ACFO, recently awarded the Superb its Fleet Car of the Year awards voted for by fleet managers and drivers.

“Since its launch in 2015 we have seen the Superb continue to gain momentum in the fleet sector, with no sign of slowing down,” comments Henry. “This prestigious award takes into account important factors for fleets including running costs, safety, reliability, value and driver appeal. We are delighted that Superb continues to top its class in all these areas.”

True fleet Skoda sales and leasing

The majority of Skoda true fleet sales go through leasing companies – around 80% last year.

“We expect this to increase in coming years due to our growing customer base and the prevalence of financing vehicles,” explains Henry while adding that currently 15% in the oeverall mix is PCH.

“We are always looking to increase our already strong support for leasing companies. The key thing for us moving into 2018 is to develop strategic relationships on all levels with leasing companies.” And this is Henry’s number one target for the coming year.

The future and electrification

Superb PHEV coming to UK in 2020
Superb PHEV coming to UK in 2020

While Skoda is now starting to meet the demand for SUVs, what about the move in electrification? Currently the range features just traditional petrol and diesel engines.

“We are currently gearing up for electrification in our vehicle line-up and the first phase will focus on plug-in hybrid technology,” explains Henry.

“This will launch with the Skoda Superb at the start of 2019 and come to the UK in 2020. We have carefully planned our entry to electrification. Ultimately the cost and capacity of the batteries is integral to provide an affordable vehicle for our customers.

“We want to be in the market place when there is a market ready for that technology. I think the Superb PHEV will fulfill a lot of Skoda brand values.”

Such an approach is typical of Skoda’s careful approach to the market. But one that is increasingly paying dividends as the brand increases its market share. And plans to increase its share of the contract hire and leasing market too.

Who to contact at Skoda

James Watson
Martin Gay
Martin Gay

James Watson (CHL manager South) and Martin Gay (CHL manager North) are both responsible for everything to do with Skoda leasing company relationships. Both James and Martin report directly into Henry Williams. Click here for details.

 

 

 

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