Skoda has unveiled a new entry-level EV offering named Epiq. This subcompact fully electric SUV is set to debut in 2025, boasting a starting price of € 25,000 (US$ 27,300). It promises a spacious cabin and a driving range of over 400 km. The unveiling took place during Skoda’s 2024 Annual Press Conference where the company shared its financial results and future strategic plans. Initially, it was anticipated that the automaker would showcase the Elroq compact SUV, slated to debut this year as a zero-emission alternative to the Karoq. However, the presentation surprised attendees with a preview concept of the Skoda Epiq, set to launch the following year as a counterpart to the upcoming VW ID.2 and Cupra Raval.
The Skoda Epiq measures around 4.1 m long, mirroring the dimensions of the Fabia hatchback. The
exterior embraces the brand’s latest Modern Solid design language, with a
raised stance, contemporary styling cues, and a distinctive LED lighting
signature. The EV bears a resemblance to a scaled-down version of the Skoda
Vision 7S Concept from 2022 featuring a similar “Tech-Deck Face” in place of a
traditional grille. The concept is finished in a Moon White shade with discreet
orange accents and futuristic three-spoke alloy wheels. The oversized skid
plates that double as intakes, the roof rails, and the texture of the plastic
cladding accentuate the adventurous stance. It remains to be seen which of
these features will make it to the production version.
Despite its compact footprint, Skoda says
that the EV will provide an “epic amount of space.” The five-seater cabin is
complemented by a generously sized 490-liter. Consistent
with Skoda’s future strategy, we anticipate extensive use of sustainable
materials throughout the interior, along with various Simply Clever features to
enhance its practicality credentials. The focal point of the minimalist
dashboard is the large free-standing infotainment display, accompanied by a
much smaller digital instrument cluster. Other notable features include the
futuristic two-spoke steering wheel with integrated buttons, ultra-slim climate
vents, a mobile digital key, and a wireless charging storage compartment
located beneath a cluster of physical buttons on the center console. Skoda
didn’t disclose any technical specifications aside from the 400 km range, but they did confirm that the EV will support bi-directional charging.
This capability allows owners to utilize battery power to operate electronic
devices and home appliances.
Starting in 2025, production of the Skoda
Epiq will be housed at the VW Group plant in Pamplona, Spain, alongside the VW
ID.2 and Cupra Raval. These three subcompact EVs will utilize a new iteration
of the MEB architecture and are anticipated to share identical powertrain and
battery options. Skoda CEO Klaus Zellmer acknowledged that the global EV market
is experiencing a slowdown but emphasized that the future of the Czech brand is
“increasingly electric.” Skoda remains steadfast in its commitment to investing
€ 5.6 billion (US$ 6.1 billion) in electric mobility in the coming years, with plans
to introduce no less than six electric models by the end of 2026.
However, the automaker will continue the
development of other powertrains, including “highly efficient” ICE,
mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options. In the same context, the Skoda CEO
said they will keep offering models with combustion engines for as long as
their customers prefer them, and the legal framework allows their sale in
certain markets like Europe. In 2023, Skoda sold 866,800 vehicles, marking an
18.4 percent increase compared to the previous year. This resulted in a revenue
of € 26.5 billion (+26.2 percent) and an operating profit of € 1.8 billion
(+182.3 percent), despite the negative impact of withdrawing from the Russian
market.
