The initiative means...
The initiative means car firms are now responsible for disposing of their own vehicles. Minister for Science and Innovation, Malcolm Wicks, said: "There is an 85 per cent target to recover scrap cars, and free take-back will help us achieve it." Go to www.recycleyourcar.co.uk for info on nearest ATF (Authorised Treatment Facility) and other services.
The car was first unveiled...
The car was first unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March, where it was blue and had a roof. Auto Express drove it in issue 856, and tipped it to appear in dealers soon. For the Frankfurt event, bosses decided to update the concept, give it a respray and chop the top off.
Looking like a cross between a MINI and Citroen"s C3 Pluriel, it was one of the stars of the show. Sources say it should reach showrooms within three years, following the radical Roomster compact MPV, which is due on sale this time next year.
Confirming the go-ahead for the Yeti, chairman Dr Detlef Wittig said: "We are in the final stages of making a positive decision. Internally we have pushed the button for the Yeti. Only the final feasibility studies remain." The four-seater seen here features a system that lets owners switch between hatchback, detachable Targa-topped cabrio and a pick-up with a canvas roof.
The production version will retain elements of these, and will be four-wheel drive. "With the Roomster and Yeti we"re returning to our innovative roots," said Wittig.
He also revealed the Yeti"s use of components from the Octavia saloon could extend to the flagship vRS model"s 2.0-litre 200bhp turbocharged petrol engine.
Speaking at the car"s unveiling, Chris Craft, brand director of Skoda UK, told Auto Express he was "absolutely delighted" with the Roomster and Yeti. With the pair aimed to appeal to younger, more trend-conscious buyers than Skoda"s traditional market, the duo could generate up to 10,000 extra sales a year in the UK for the Czech firm.