Škoda Auto has revealed the first interior sketches of its forthcoming all-electric compact SUV, the Epiq, while confirming that the production model will make its global debut in Zurich later this month.
The Czech manufacturer said the new Škoda Epiq will be unveiled at 2pm on 19 May 2026 in Zurich, marking a significant step in its push to broaden access to electric mobility across Europe. Positioned as the brand’s most affordable battery-electric SUV, the Epiq is expected to play a pivotal role in expanding Škoda’s zero-emissions line-up.
The interior preview signals a major design shift for Škoda Auto, introducing the company’s “Modern Solid” design language in its most complete form yet. According to the firm, the approach prioritises simplicity, intuitive usability and spatial clarity — principles that are increasingly central to the next generation of electric vehicles.
Minimalist cabin with a focus on usability
The sketches reveal a cabin architecture that departs from traditional dashboard layouts. Instead, a horizontal design theme dominates, creating a more open and visually uncluttered environment. This structural change is intended to enhance both perceived space and ease of orientation for occupants.
Škoda says the simplified layout enables intuitive operation for both driver and passenger, an important consideration as vehicles become more digitally integrated. Controls and key interfaces appear to be consolidated into clearly defined zones, reducing visual noise while maintaining functionality.
Ambient lighting elements are also highlighted in the preview images, contributing to what the company describes as a “welcoming, cosy atmosphere”. This reflects a broader industry trend in EV interiors, where lighting is increasingly used to shape mood and reinforce brand identity.
Practicality remains a central pillar of the design. The Epiq features an open storage compartment within the cabin, alongside a free-standing centre console that incorporates wireless charging capabilities. These elements suggest a continued emphasis on everyday usability, even as the brand pushes into more design-led territory.
Sustainable materials and ‘Modern Solid’ philosophy
Sustainability is another key component of the Epiq’s interior concept. Škoda confirmed that carefully selected materials have been used in line with the Modern Solid philosophy, although it has yet to detail the exact composition or sourcing of these materials.
This aligns with the wider strategy across the Volkswagen Group, of which Škoda is a core member. Across its brands, the group has been investing heavily in sustainable production processes and recyclable interior components as part of its broader decarbonisation efforts.
The Modern Solid design language itself represents a shift away from more ornate styling cues towards a cleaner, more robust aesthetic. In practical terms, that translates into geometric forms, durable surfaces and a clear hierarchy of elements within the cabin.
Entry-level EV aimed at broader adoption
Beyond design, the Epiq’s significance lies in its positioning within Škoda’s expanding electric portfolio. The company has made clear that the model will serve as an entry point to its battery-electric range, targeting customers who may previously have found EVs financially out of reach.
As part of the Volkswagen Group’s “Brand Group Core” cluster, Škoda is working alongside other volume brands to scale up electric vehicle production while reducing costs. The Epiq forms part of the so-called European Urban Car Family — a programme focused on delivering smaller, more affordable EVs tailored to city driving.
Škoda said the model will play a “key role” in doubling its battery-electric vehicle (BEV) portfolio in 2026, underscoring the pace at which the company is accelerating its electrification strategy.
This expansion comes at a time when competition in the compact electric SUV segment is intensifying, with multiple manufacturers targeting similar price points and use cases. For Škoda, the challenge will be to balance affordability with the practicality and perceived quality that have traditionally defined the brand.
Strategic importance within Škoda’s growth plans
The Epiq arrives as Škoda continues to pursue its “Next Level Škoda” strategy, which aims to position the company among Europe’s top three best-selling car brands by the end of the decade.
In 2025, the manufacturer delivered more than 1.04 million vehicles globally, maintaining a strong presence across multiple markets. However, like many legacy automakers, it faces mounting pressure to transition towards electrified drivetrains while maintaining profitability.
The introduction of a lower-cost electric SUV could prove crucial in achieving that balance. By targeting a broader customer base, the Epiq has the potential to drive higher volumes while supporting emissions reduction targets.
At the same time, Škoda is continuing to invest in key growth regions, including India, Vietnam and the wider ASEAN market, where demand for affordable vehicles remains strong. While the Epiq is initially positioned within the European context, its underlying platform and cost structure could make it adaptable to other regions over time.
Interior design as a differentiator
In the increasingly crowded EV market, interior design is emerging as a critical differentiator. With powertrain performance becoming more standardised — particularly among vehicles built on shared platforms — manufacturers are turning to cabin experience as a way to stand out.
Škoda’s approach with the Epiq reflects this shift. By focusing on clarity, usability and material quality, the company is seeking to create a distinctive identity that resonates with modern consumers.
The emphasis on intuitive controls is particularly notable. As vehicles incorporate larger touchscreens and more advanced software systems, ease of use has become a key concern for buyers. A well-executed interface can significantly enhance the overall ownership experience, while a poorly designed one can quickly become a source of frustration.
Anticipation builds ahead of May debut
While the interior sketches provide an early glimpse of what to expect, many details about the Epiq remain under wraps. Technical specifications, including battery capacity, range and charging performance, have yet to be disclosed.
However, given its role within the Volkswagen Group ecosystem, the Epiq is likely to utilise elements of the group’s established EV architecture, potentially sharing components with other models in the urban EV segment, such as Volkswagen's recently revealed ID. Polo.
The official unveiling in Zurich on 19 May is expected to shed further light on these aspects, as well as providing a complete view of the exterior design.
For now, the focus remains on the interior — a deliberate choice that highlights Škoda’s confidence in its new design direction. By foregrounding the cabin experience, the company is signalling that practicality and user-centric design will remain at the heart of its electric future.
A key moment for Škoda’s electric transition
The launch of the Epiq represents more than just the introduction of a new model. It marks a pivotal moment in Škoda’s broader transition towards electrification, as the brand seeks to balance its traditional strengths with the demands of a rapidly evolving market.
If successful, the Epiq could serve as a template for future entry-level EVs, demonstrating how cost, usability and design can be combined to appeal to a wide audience.
With the global premiere just weeks away, industry observers will be watching closely to see how the final production model compares to these initial sketches — and whether it can deliver on the promise of making electric mobility more accessible.
As the countdown to Zurich continues, one thing is clear: the Epiq is set to play a central role in defining Škoda’s next chapter in the electric era.
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