Skoda Epiq and Peaq expand EV lineup

Skoda is expanding its electric lineup with two models at the edges of the range: the Peaq is described as the new flagship at 4.87 meters long, while the Epiq is the new entry-level model at 4.17 meters. The Peaq is around twelve centimeters longer than the Kodiaq and, according to the report, offers 299 liters of luggage space as a seven-seater behind the third row, 935 liters as a five-seater and 2150 liters of cargo volume with the second row folded down. There is also a 37-liter frunk for the charging cable. For Switzerland, the Peaq is planned with an 86-kWh battery, either with rear-wheel drive and 210 kW/286 PS or as an all-wheel-drive version with 220 kW/299 PS. The infotainment is in portrait format for the first time, while buttons for climate control and volume remain. Options mentioned include front seats with massage function and extendable leg rests as well as a panoramic glass roof that can be dimmed electrochromatically. For the Peaq 90x, the official range stated is around 610 kilometers; on the test drive described, consumption was closer to just under 20 than to the stated 15.8 kWh/100 km, which the report extrapolates to a good 400 kilometers. Maximum charging power is 199 kW, and charging from 10 to 80 percent is said to take 28 minutes. Bidirectional charging, Plug & Charge and a motorway assistant that can change lanes automatically after the indicator has been activated are also mentioned. In Switzerland, the Peaq starts at 60’350 francs; with all-wheel drive and corresponding equipment, around 75’000 francs are cited.

The Epiq uses the new MEB+ platform, which it shares with the VW ID.Cross and Cupra Raval. Despite its compact dimensions, adequate space in the front and rear as well as a 475-liter boot are described. The report drove the “First Edition” 55 with 155 kW/210 PS and a 52-kWh battery; Skoda states up to 430 kilometers of range for it. On the test drive including German autobahns, the onboard computer showed 13.3 kWh/100 km, from which the report derives around 400 kilometers as realistic. Maximum charging power is 105 kW, and charging from 10 to 80 percent takes 24 minutes. Inside, a modern, tidy cockpit and plenty of hard plastic are mentioned. Inserts and organizers for storage compartments are said to be downloadable as digital files and produced with a 3D printer. The Epiq starts in Switzerland at 25’900 francs; this base version has a 37-kWh battery and around 310 kilometers of range. The driven “First Edition” costs at least 40’000 francs.