Trekka
The Trekka commenced production on December 2, 1966,
in Otahuhu, New Zealand, and six years later, the brand counted almost 3,000
examples made. Why on Earth would Skoda build cars in the middle of the Pacific
Ocean? Well, for customs and tax reasons and they were doing it
since 1956, with the help of local importer Motor Industries International.
Built as "a robust, compact everyday car for
the local farmers, tradespeople and merchants", as the automaker marketed
it at the time, the Trekka was based on the Octavia's chassis, which came from
the European country to New Zealand, along with the rigid central tubular frame
and independent suspension.
Modifications were made to the wheelbase, which was
shortened from 2,389 mm to 2,165 mm, and the axle ratio was
changed from 4.78 to 5.25. Contributing to its 190 mm ground
clearance were the large tires, and customers could also enhance the rear-wheel
drive vehicle's off-road capabilities with an optional differential lock.
The Trekka was powered by a 1,221 cc engine
delivering 47 PS and 87 Nm of torque, mated to a four-speed
gearbox to help it achieve a top speed of 105-110 km/h, while
returning approximately 11 lt/100 km.
To appeal to as many customers as possible, the
Skoda Trekka was offered in several variants, including a 3-door pickup with 2
to 8 seats, a canvas soft-top, a fixed plastic hardtop, an estate, and even a
beach version.
Sitting at 3,590 mm long, 1,600 mm wide and between 1,785 and 2,040 mm tall, tipping
the scales at 920-980 kg and able to carry loads of up to 500
kg, the SUV was eventually exported to markets such as Australia,
Fiji, Samoa, and Vietnam. Additionally, the Czechs applied a similar concept in
Pakistan, too, where assembly of the SkodaPak (Skoda Pakistan) began in May
1970.
