Skoda Epiq: Epic Electric Offer?
Anyone can build large electric SUVs, but small, affordable ones remain an art. And after VW and Cupra have already shown their future entry-level models, Skoda is now unveiling its own, which will be named "Epiq." Klaus Zellmer, Chairman of the Board at Skoda Auto, is thrilled:
“The future Skoda Epiq offers a lot of car at an attractive price and a large interior despite compact dimensions. Our customers want to have a choice, so we are expanding our growing range of electric vehicles to include this popular segment. I hope the first impressions show that the Epiq shines through modern design, practical range, and user-friendly technologies – and is also affordable.”
The name is easy to remember: The E at the beginning stands for the purely electric drive, and the Q at the end is the hallmark of the brand's SUV range. Epiq is derived from the ancient Greek word 'epos,' which means 'word' or 'verse,' but also 'story' or 'poem.' However, what the Czechs are really aiming for: The name also creates positive associations with adjectives like amazing, great, extraordinary, and remarkable.
With clever features and its versatility, the Epiq is designed to meet the needs of both family and lifestyle-oriented customers. However, it will not be built in the Czech Republic: It will be assembled in Pamplona, Spain, as part of a joint development and production project by the Volkswagen Volume Group brands Skoda, Cupra, and Volkswagen.
Visually, the Epiq is clearly based on the Vision 7S concept
Interesting: By 2024, the Elroq is expected to slot below the Enyaq, which has not yet been shown. Visually, the Epiq follows the Vision 7S, which, as a seven-seater flagship model, will crown the electric SUV range. According to Skoda, the new design language "Modern Solid" combines robustness and functionality with authenticity.
On the front hood, the logo is replaced by the new Skoda wordmark. The "grill" is now called Tech-Deck-Face. According to Skoda, it "represents a modern reinterpretation of the well-known Škoda radiator grille" and houses electric systems such as distance radar and a front camera.
Cubism as the Basis for Design
Bi-functional, T-shaped LED elements for daytime running lights and indicators flank this "Tech-Deck Face". Below are the front headlights. The inspiration for the design of their light modules with Matrix LED technology draws on the fundamentals of cubism.
A characteristic feature of the side view is a "curved tornado line". It visually separates the passenger cabin from the vehicle body and emphasizes the shoulder section of the Epiq. The wheel arches below stand out thanks to their distinctive trim and span aerodynamically optimized wheels.
100 to 150 kW Power, up to 400 km Range
The electric range of the 100 to 150 kW output is expected to be up to 400 km. The Epiq can also handle bidirectional charging, transforming it into a mobile energy storage unit that can feed electrical energy into the home power grid and provide it for operating electrical devices.
As the first production model, the Epiq is set to offer a so-called "minimalist Modern Solid interior", primarily consisting of durable, practical, and sustainable materials. It features an open storage option with an inductive charging station for smartphones in the floating center console and additional Simply Clever storage compartments.
Tactile Buttons Remain
The luggage compartment includes bag hooks, cargo elements, mounting fixtures, and a hidden compartment under the cargo floor. And: Skoda remains faithful to true tactile buttons: The two-spoke steering wheel features physical buttons and tactile rotary controls with flashy orange accents for controlling the most important functions alongside the new Skoda lettering. The digital key aims to provide the driver with a wide range of interactions with the vehicle via their mobile device, contributing to an enhanced user experience.
Skoda Auto Continues the Transformation
Skoda Auto has committed to investing several billion euros in the transformation to electric mobility over the coming years. The Skoda Elroq, a battery-electric compact SUV, will celebrate its premiere later this year as the first representative of an upcoming offensive of purely electric models.
What Does This Mean?
Many have likely been waiting for the Epiq. And following Citroen C3, VW ID.2, and Cupra Urban Rebel, Skoda now also launches an affordable electric car without nonsense. Should work – we then wish for epic sales figures!
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