Skoda Auto has announced the introduction of the Skoda Epiq, a battery-electric city SUV crossover, set to augment its electric vehicle range in 2025. Based on our experience of living in ‘rip off Britain', we would expect this €25,000 car to land in UK showrooms at close to £25,000. For the VW Group, the Epiq represents a significant stride in making electric vehicles accessible to a broader audience. Measuring 4.1 metres, the vehicle promises a generous interior space and up to 490 litres of luggage capacity, encapsulating the essence of Skoda's new Modern Solid design ethos both internally and externally.
As part of Skoda's ambitious plan to launch six new electric vehicles in the near future, the Epiq is poised to play a pivotal role in the brand's expansion into the sub-compact SUV segment. Skoda aims to blend modern design, practical range, and user-friendly technology at an affordable price point, as outlined by CEO Klaus Zellmer. The vehicle's design (highlighted in a recent digital study), features a sleek exterior with T-shaped LED elements and a high-tech interior focusing on functionality and sustainable materials.
The Epiq's anticipated electric range exceeds 248 miles (400 kilometres), positioning it as a competitive choice for customers transitioning to electric mobility. With its innovative features, such as bidirectional charging and a comprehensive suite of connectivity and assistance technologies, the Epiq looks to underscore Skoda's commitment to offering a seamless digital experience.
Beyond the Epiq, Skoda Autosays that it is steadfast in its strategic ambitions with the Next Level – Skoda Strategy 2030, aiming to become one of the top five selling brands in Europe. This strategy includes a focus on entry-level segments and an expansion of its electric model line-up.
The company also seeks to tap into growth markets such as India, North Africa, Vietnam, and the ASEAN region. With a diverse portfolio of eleven passenger-car series and a robust global presence, Skoda delivered over 866,000 vehicles in 2023. As a key player within the VW Group, Skoda not only manufactures its own vehicles but also produces vital components like MEB battery systems, engines, and transmissions for use in other group brands.
Operating in approximately 100 markets with over 40,000 employees worldwide, Skoda's manufacturing footprint extends beyond its three Czech Republic sites to include facilities in China, Slovakia, India and Ukraine – through partnerships. The forthcoming Skoda Epiq, alongside the eagerly awaited electric compact SUV, the Skoda Elroq, signifies Skoda's resolute move towards electrification, aligning with its broader goals of innovation and global expansion.
Here at WhichEV, we have reported many times on the fact that the average price of the 10 most popular petrol/diesel vehicles sold each year in the UK, is close to £25,000. At the same time, the average price of EVs that have been advertised is almost 100% higher. Car makers have then been walking around ‘confused' about the lack of demand – in a market that has yet to fully recover from the lockdown.
We applaud this Epiq move by Skoda and its siblings at the VW Group.
