Skoda set to produce electric SUV

The prototype Enyaq electric SUV will go into production for Skoda. Photo: Skoda

Skoda will start production of the full-electric Enyaq iV at its plant in Mlada Bolesav, the Czech Republic later this year, ahead of a launch at the beginning of 2021.

The SUV is the brand's first electric car based on Volkswagen Group's MEB platform and will be offered with three different battery sizes as well as the option of all-wheel drive, says Automotive News Europe.

Pictures of a prototype Enyaq undergoing testing shows that the car has a more traditional body style than the iV Vision concept coupe SUV shown at Geneva in 2019. Skoda has said it will build the coupe at a later date.

The top spec Enyaq will have a range of 500km. Photo: Skoda

The entry '50' Enyaq model has standard rear-wheel-drive and a 55-kilowatt-hour battery pack for a predicted range of 340km using the WLTP cycle, the company said.

The mid-spec '60' version has a 62 kWh battery for a predicted 390-km range, while the top-spec '80' has a 82 kWh battery for an estimated range of 500km in rear-wheel-drive form and 460 km with optional all-wheel drive

The Skoda iV Vision concept coupe SUV will go into production later. Photo: Skoda

The Enyaq shares the additional electric motor on the front axle with the all-wheel-drive variant of the VW ID4 SUV, on which the Skoda model is closely based, a source close to the project told Automotive News Europe.

The Enyaq will be Skoda's second full-electric vehicle after the Citigo IV minicar.

Skoda is also rolling out a range of plug-in hybrids, starting with the Superb midsize and continuing this year with the new Octavia compact.

The name Enyaq is the Irish name Enya with the letter Q found at the end of every new Skoda SUV. The E is also a reference to electromobility, the company said.

Skoda New Zealand has expressed interest in the Enyaq.