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 (about $27,300 at current exchange rates). It promises a spacious cabin and a driving range of over 400 km (250 miles).
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 (161.4 inches) 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.
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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 (17.3 cubic feet) boot. 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 (250 mile) 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 Invests In Electric Mobility But Doesn’t Forget ICE
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 ($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.