Skoda adds to electric range
Skoda’s first fully electric vehicle is coming here, writes Colin Smith.
The all-electric Skoda Enyaq iV made its global premiere recently and the New Zealand distributor is well advanced with plans to introduce it here.
Skoda’s EV will go on sale in Europe next year with a range of models offering 62kWh and 82kWh battery choices. The larger of the two will enable a WLTPtested range of just over 500km.
The Enyaq joins the Volkswagen ID.3 and upcoming ID.4 as the latest model based on the Volkswagen Group MEB modular electric architecture.
It’s also the fourth SUV in the Skoda model range joining the Kamiq, Karoq and Kodiaq. The Enyaq is closest in size to the large Kodiaq, at 47mm shorter in length and 5mm narrower.
The Enyaq iV will be built at Skoda’s main production plant in Mlada Boleslav, making it the first MEB-based Volkswagen Group vehicle in Europe to be produced outside Germany.
Adding the electric SUV to its range is a high priority for Skoda New Zealand.
‘‘We have already been working with the factory for a year-and-a-half. We have had confirmation that New Zealand will be a targeted market for the Enyaq and we are working through volume and expectations,’’ said Rodney Gillard, Skoda New Zealand general manager.
‘‘Enyaq will be the first Skoda EV to go on sale and it’s a matter of when rather than if it will be launched in New Zealand. Global production starts in February and we will know more about the timing for us in a few months.
‘‘Globally, there will be more than one model with a choice style and different range versions.
‘‘We will find the sweet spot for New Zealand in terms of range, style and practicality. But the first sweet spot we have to find is supply.’’
In Europe, customers will be able to choose between 60 (62kWh) and 80 (82kWh) versions in standard Loft and optional Lounge and Suite leather interior design packs.
The entry level 62kWh battery model is equipped with a 132kW motor that drives the rear wheels through a singlespeed transmission. It has a WLTP range of up to 389km on a single charge. The larger 82kWh RWD model generates 150kW and is capable of returning up to 508km on a single charge (WLTP).
The highly equipped entry-level 60 model features 19-inch Proteus alloy wheels, an infotainment system featuring a 13-inch screen, rear parking sensors, dual-zone climate control and keyless go.
All models also feature road sign recognition, ambient interior lighting, multifunction leather steering wheel and front assist as standard.
The 80 model also gains chrome detailing, front parking sensors and a rear-view camera.
The 80 models also come with a heated two-spoke leather steering wheel that features paddles for setting the levels of regenerative braking, drive mode
selection and infotainment system with navigation.
Included in the launch programme is the range-topping Enyaq iV 80 Founders Edition, which gains 125kW DC charging, 21-inch Aquarius alloy wheels, an illuminated front grille with LED Crystal face and Matrix LED headlights plus a unique black leather interior design pack as standard.
All Enyaq iV models have a minimum DC rapid charging capability of 50kW as standard. In Europe, customers can specify higher 100kW (for 62kWh battery) and 125kW (for 82kWh battery) DC charge rates as options.
With the 125kW DC fast-charging option, the Enyaq iV can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in just 38 minutes.
The Enyaq iV can also be charged using a standard household 230V socket with 2.3 kW alternating current (AC) or charged at home overnight using a wallbox of up to 7kW. Depending on the battery size, the charging process takes six to eight hours.
The new electric architecture has allowed Skoda’s design team to reimagine the Enyaq iV’s interior configuration.
With the traction battery housed in the floor and a compact motor mounted beneath the boot floor, the Enyaq iV has a cabin unburdened by the packaging compromises of a traditional internal combustion engine car.
As a result, occupants can enjoy a spacious interior with a flat floor and a boot that can hold 585 litres of luggage.