skoda launch its most affordable ev the skoda epiq

Skoda Auto has officially expanded its electric vehicle lineup by pulling the wraps off the production-ready version of the Skoda Epiq. Positioned as the brand's smallest, most accessible, and highly anticipated compact electric SUV, the global debut marks a monumental shift in Skoda’s electrification blueprint. Slotting systematically below the Enyaq and Elroq models, the Epiq aims to democratize European electric engineering with a highly competitive package that emphasizes value, high driving range, and next-generation connectivity.

A Platform Shift and Striking 'Modern Solid' Design

The Skoda Epiq represents a collection of firsts for the Czech carmaker. It is built on the Volkswagen Group’s highly versatile, next-generation MEB+ architecture, making the Epiq the first production Skoda EV to deploy a front-wheel-drive layout. Skoda states that this dedicated platform utilizes lighter, significantly downsized battery setups designed to optimize floor space without compromising structural safety.

Aesthetically, the Epiq acts as a pioneer, fully incorporating Skoda's radical new "Modern Solid" design language. The front grille has been re-imagined into a striking, glossy black "Tech-Deck Face" flanked by minimalist, T-shaped LED lighting signatures. Despite its compact exterior frame measuring 4,171 mm in length, clever spatial packaging ensures the cabin is incredibly spacious. The vehicle boasts a massive 475-litre boot space, alongside an extra 25-litre front compartment (frunk), setting an undeniable benchmark for its segment.

Battery Configurations, Range, and Performance

Skoda will introduce the compact electric SUV with two distinct battery configurations (38.5 kWh and 55 kWh) split across three power outputs to suit diverse driving requirements.

Epiq 35 & 40:

These variants offer outputs of 116 hp and 135 hp respectively, drawing from the smaller battery pack to yield a practical, everyday claimed driving range of around 310 km.

Epiq 55:

The top-tier flagship trim generates a robust 211 hp and 290 Nm of torque. Equipped with the 55 kWh battery pack, it boasts an impressive maximum claimed range of up to 440 km on a single charge.

Charging anxieties are comprehensively addressed with integrated DC fast-charging capabilities that can replenish the battery from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 24 minutes. Furthermore, the Epiq ushers in advanced bidirectional charging functionality. Utilizing Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) capabilities, owners can use their vehicle as a rolling energy bank to power external appliances or feed electricity back into local grids.

Tech-Forward Cabin and Global Indian Prospects

The interior layout prioritizes clean ergonomics and sustainability, featuring an animal-free, heavily recycled cabin fabric matrix. At the heart of the dashboard sits a massive 13-inch Android-powered infotainment system with native support for applications like Google Maps and Spotify. Connectivity is handled via the MySkoda application, enabling remote thermal pre-conditioning, digital smartphone keys, and charging controls. Safety remains paramount, with seven standard airbags alongside Skoda's Travel Assist 3.0 suite, which introduces advanced ADAS features like Front Assist, Lane Assist, and Traffic Sign Recognition.