Following the Volkswagen ID. Polo and the Cupra Raval, the Volkswagen Group is introducing the Skoda Epiq as the third model in its new family of electric small cars. Prices are set to start at €26,290 in Belgium, but most likely only more expensive models will be available initially, starting with a ‘First Edition’. The Epiq will be at the Skoda dealers in autumn.

Skoda is currently performing strongly: in Germany, the Elroq, for example, is the best-selling electric car, and it’s performing well across many markets. 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.

At 4.17 meters in length, the Epiq is short enough to qualify for the planned European M1e class. The model stands 1.58 meters tall and measures 1.80 meters wide without wing mirrors. One of its key selling points is a 475-liter boot capacity, complemented by a 25-liter frunk. That is more than its ICE counterpart, the Škoda Kamiq, offers with 400 liters, the Golf 8 with 381 liters, and even the Elroq with 470 liters.

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 EV family, as it shares almost all its technology and dimensions with the ID. Cross.

Roominess

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 compact battery-electric car should be packaged, just as its ICE predecessors were decades ago when they switched to front-wheel drive.

For typical Škoda Epiq buyers, versatility is likely to be key. Their needs are largely met: all versions of the Epiq offer a tow hitch with a 75-kilogram vertical load capacity, available as an option, sufficient to transport two e-bikes on the accompanying rack.

The  Epiq also 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.

Two batteries, three motors

The electric drive of the Epiq runs parallel to that of the ID. Polo, with the exception of the just-launched GTI. The Epiq 35 and Epiq 40 are equipped with a 37.5-kilowatt-hour battery pack, giving a WLTP range of 310 kilometers. The electric motor in the Epiq 35 delivers 85 kilowatts, while the Epiq 40, with the same battery, offers 99 kW. The maximum torque is 267 Nm. The top speed is limited to 150 kph.

At the moment, the price list for the small Skoda starts at around €32,000 for the Epiq 55. It features a larger battery pack with a net capacity of 51.5 kWh. Here, the customer gets a WLTP range of 440 km, a standard charging time of 24 minutes, and significantly more power at 155 kW. Torque increases to 290 Nm, and the top speed is limited to 160 kph. This version also offers more impressive towing capacities.

While the two battery versions use different cell chemistries, their curb weights are nearly identical. The LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate) cells in the Epiq 35 and 40 are extremely robust but have a lower energy density. The NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) cells in the Epiq 55 offer better energy density, resulting in better performance but also in a higher cost.

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.

‘Modern Solid’ design

The Epiq introduces Skoda’s ‘Modern Solid’ design language, on the outside as well as inside. The infotainment system now utilizes Android Automotive. Typical of Skoda is its package-based optional equipment strategy: the entry-level Essence trim can be upgraded with the Comfort package (including heated front seats), the Technology package (featuring front parking sensors, among other items), and the Travel package, which adds a navigation system and extended driver assistance systems.

The higher-spec Selection trim includes the Comfort and Technology packages as standard. Customers can also opt for Matrix LED headlights, available as part of the Light & Visibility package. As always, Skoda 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.