Skoda plans new EVs for India from its global portfolio
Skoda Auto, the Czech Republic-based automaker, is considering at least five electric vehicles (EVs) from its global portfolio for the Indian market. The list of vehicles include the Vision 7S, Elroq, Eipq, Enyaq (SUV and coupe). The Enyaq was showcased in the country at the Bharat Mobility Show earlier this year.
Not only that, it has already announced a sub-compact Tata Nexon and Kia Sonet rival for the market, while the new-gen Kodiaq and Superb are on the cards too, with the former incoming in 2025. Reports indicate that the carmaker is also evaluating the local assembly of the new Octavia. Meanwhile, Skoda has recorded 1 lakh unit sales milestone in two years since the announcement of the India 2.0 programme.
Skoda ElroqComing back to the EVs planned for India, the Elroq, is one of the EVs the automaker is considering for India. It is set to make its global debut this autumn and will then go on sale in Europe and other parts of the world. Skoda has positioned it as a compact electric SUV. It will be the first Skoda to adopt the brand's new design philosophy.
The Elroq promises maximum WLTP range of up to 560km and battery charging time of 28 minutes with a suitable 175kW DC fast charger. Power output will range from 170PS to 300PS depending on the trim level, which is namely, 50, 60, 85, and 85x. It will also feature an all-wheel-drive system in the higher-trims and options to choose from three battery packs: 55kWh, 63kWh, and 82kWh. Lastly, it will have advanced features, up to nine airbags, and ADAS.
Skoda Enyaq (SUV & coupe)Skoda unveiled the Enyaq facelift late last year, bringing in subtle changes to its design and upgrades to the powertrains. The EV has dropped iV from its name and its various trims are now distinguished by only numerics or model designation. Each version of the Enyaq offers distinctive range, power output, and drivetrain.
The latest software update has introduced battery pre-conditioning to the Enyaq, pre-heating the battery for DC charging in low temperatures and optimising charging speed by up to 22 per cent. In addition, the new user interface for displays features a more intuitive menu layout, allowing users to create shortcuts for frequently used settings and apps. There are also fresh map graphics with a larger map area for the navigation system and a Walkaway function that automatically locks the car when the driver walks away with the key.
Skoda Vision 7SThe Vision 7S is the biggest electric SUV in the brand portfolio that debuted the new Skoda logo in 2022. Based on the Volkswagen Group's MEB platform, it has a unique seating layout, which is a six-plus-one arrangement. Moreover, the EV gets an 89kWh battery pack with an expected range of up to 600km, and can be charged with a 200kW DC charger.
Skoda Epiq
Revealed earlier this year, the Epiq is an entry-level electric SUV from the brand. It measures 4.1-meter in length and has a boot space of 490 litres. The Epiq bears a new-age but familiar design language with a minimalist interior and focuses on practicality and space. The EV promises a range of up to 400km. In India, the Epiq will take on the MG ZS EV or the upcoming Hyundai Creta EV.
These EVs from Skoda are expected to arrive in the next two years or so but the Enyaq EV could be the first all-electric model to go on sale in 2025.
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