<div id="readability-page-1"><div><p>Škoda is currently performing strongly: in Germany, the Elroq is the best-selling electric car. From September, the Czech carmaker will expand its portfolio further downmarket with the Epiq. The battery-electric SUV is officially classified as a compact car.</p><p>At 4.17 metres in length, the Epiq is short enough to qualify for the planned European M1e class. The model stands 1.58 metres tall and measures 1.80 metres wide without wing mirrors. One of its key selling points is a boot capacity of 475 litres, complemented by an additional 25-litre frunk. That is more than the Škoda Kamiq offers with 400 litres, the Golf 8 with 381 litres, and even the Elroq with 470 litres.</p><p>The entry price of €25,900 also appears attractive, although it is likely little more than an introductory offer.</p><p>The Škoda Epiq, produced in Spain, shares the MEB+ platform with the Cupra Raval, the Volkswagen ID. Polo, and the ID. Cross. Internally, the ID. Cross is seen as having the highest sales potential because it combines VW’s core brand with the SUV principle. However, Škoda’s reputation in Europe should not be underestimated. In this price-sensitive market segment, a few hundred euros could make all the difference: the Epiq might become the best-selling model in the VW Group’s compact car family.</p><h2>Space thanks to front-wheel drive and high versatility</h2><p>All models in the range feature front-wheel drive and generous boot space. The relatively simple rear-axle design, combined with the absence of an electric motor between the rear wheels – unlike in earlier MEB models – frees up significantly more space. This is how a battery-electric car should be packaged. Competitors have already taken note: the Hyundai Ioniq 3, for example, follows the same principle and markets it as the Megabox.</p><p>For the typical buyers of the Škoda Epiq, versatility is likely to be key. Their needs are largely met: while there is no foldable passenger seat like in the Renault 4, all versions of the Epiq offer a tow hitch with a 75-kilogram vertical load capacity (available as an optional extra). This is sufficient to transport two e-bikes on the accompanying rack.</p><p>The real highlight: the Epiq has a towing capacity of 500 kg with the smaller traction battery and 750 kg (unbraked) or 1,200 kg (braked) for the larger battery. This brings us to the three available versions.</p><h2>More range for an estimated €33,000</h2><p>The Epiq 35 and Epiq 40 are equipped with a 37.5-kilowatt-hour traction battery. Their WLTP range is 310 kilometres. The electric motor in the Epiq 35 delivers 85 kilowatts, while the Epiq 40 offers 99 kW. The maximum torque is 267 Newton metres. The top speed is limited to 150 km/h. Škoda does not specify a standard charging time for a 10–80% charge according to ISO 12906; however, based on technically identical Group models, it is expected to be under 30 minutes.</p><figure><table><thead><tr><th></th><th><strong>Epiq 35</strong></th><th><strong>Epiq 40</strong></th><th><strong>Epiq 55</strong></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Drive</strong></td><td>FWD</td><td>FWD</td><td>FWD</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Power</strong></td><td>85 kW</td><td>99 kW</td><td>155 kW</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Torque</strong></td><td>267 Nm</td><td>267 Nm</td><td>290 Nm</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Acceleration</strong></td><td>11.0 s</td><td>9.8 s</td><td>7.4 s</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Top speed</strong></td><td>150 km/h</td><td>150 km/h</td><td>160 km/h</td></tr><tr><td><strong>WLTP range</strong></td><td>310 km</td><td>310 km</td><td>440 km</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Battery</strong> (gross/net)</td><td>38.5/37 kWh</td><td>38.5/37 kWh</td><td>55/52 kWh</td></tr><tr><td><strong>DC charging power</strong></td><td>50 kW</td><td>90 kW</td><td>133 kW</td></tr><tr><td><strong>DC charging time 10-80%</strong></td><td>–</td><td>28 min</td><td>24 min</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Price</strong></td><td>€25,900</td><td>–</td><td>–</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>Škoda has not yet disclosed pricing for the Epiq 55. However, a plausible estimate is possible: if the ID. Polo equipped with a 51.5 kWh traction battery starts at €33,795, the larger Epiq could be priced from around €33,000. The reason is that Volkswagen does not offer the Polo’s largest battery in the entry-level trim, whereas Škoda does allow this configuration for the Epiq.</p><p>For this price, customers get a WLTP range of 440 km, a standard charging time of 24 minutes, and significantly more power at 155 kW. Torque increases to 290 Newton metres, and the top speed in the Epiq 55 is limited to 160 km/h. With its extended range and improved charging performance, the Epiq 55 is the ideal choice for those who regularly travel longer distances, have the necessary budget, and might want to tow a small caravan instead of just a garden waste trailer.</p><h2>Different cell chemistries, similar kerb weight</h2><p>Škoda claims the weight has been reduced, but does not provide specifics. Once again, the technical data of its counterparts offer clues. The Polo, for example, weighs just under 1.6 tonnes. The Epiq is likely to be slightly heavier, which would still be a good figure.</p><p>Equally acceptable is the fact that, while the two battery versions – much like in the VW Polo – use different cell chemistries, their kerb weights are nearly identical. The LFP cells in the Epiq 35 and 40 are extremely robust but have a lower energy density. The NMC cells in the Epiq 55 offer better energy density, resulting in greater range. However, the cathode material, which consists of a mix of nickel, manganese, and cobalt, drives up costs.</p><h2>Škoda packages</h2><p>Škoda’s typical approach to optional extras is to bundle them into packages. The most basic trim, Essence, can be upgraded with the Comfort package (which includes features such as heated front seats), the Technology package (e.g., front parking sensors), and the Travel package (navigation system, advanced driver assistance systems).</p><p>The higher trim level, Selection, includes the Comfort and Technology packages as standard. Here, customers can add the Premium package, which includes features like a 360-degree camera. Matrix LED headlights are available as an additional option and are part of the Light &amp; Vision package.</p><p>As always, Škoda continues its Simply Clever concept in the Epiq. This includes a multitude of storage solutions and practical details. Standard features include bottle holders in the front and rear, while an umbrella in the driver’s door is available as an optional extra.</p><h2>Ready for bidirectional charging</h2><p>It is also worth noting that all Škoda Epiq variants are prepared for bidirectional charging. The functionality ranges from powering external electrical devices to using the electric car as temporary storage for grid stability, potentially creating an additional source of income. However, suitable tariffs or the necessary hardware are not yet available.</p><p>The conditions for the Škoda Epiq’s success appear favourable. SUVs in this segment are bought by private customers at an above-average rate. Moreover, at least in Germany, many households qualify for the new purchase subsidy, which is often used as a down payment for leasing or financing. Even without state incentives, the Škoda Epiq addresses a clear demand for modern mobility combined with high practicality. It would be surprising if the model did not succeed.</p></div></div>

VWAGY

VOW3

VWAPY

<p>Škoda has launched the Epiq, a compact electric SUV priced from €25,900, expanding its electric vehicle lineup. The Epiq features a boot capacity of 475 litres, front-wheel drive, and three versions with varying battery capacities and ranges. The Epiq 35 and 40 offer a WLTP range of 310 km, while the Epiq 55 is estimated to start at €33,000 with a range of 440 km. The model aims to attract price-sensitive customers in Europe, leveraging Škoda's strong market reputation.</p>

Introducing the Škoda Epiq: the beloved compact SUV