Small but with plenty of boot space: the 4.17-metre-long Skoda Epiq seats five people – and offers 475 litres of boot space, which, according to Skoda, is around 20% more than the slightly larger Kamiq. Skoda Auto Deutschland Gmbh/dpa-tmn/dpaSkoda has revealed its smallest electric car yet – the €25,900 / £24,950 Epiq.The newcomer is a small electric SUV that goes head-to-head with models like the Renault 4 and Kia EV2, costing the same as the Skoda Kamiq petrol SUV equivalent.The Epiq uses the same new MEB+ platform as the Cupra Raval and Volkswagen’s ID.Polo and ID.Cross models. The quartet represents Volkswagen Group’s attack on the more value end of the EV market.AdvertisementAdvertisementTwo battery sizes are on offer for UK customers, with Skoda promising a range of up to 315 km for the 37kWh LFP ’40’ model, and 430 km from the 52kWh NMC battery found in the ‘55’ version. Both versions can be charged from 10 to 80% in under 25 minutes, with the Epiq 55 featuring bidirectional charging.The Epiq 40 pairs its battery with a 132bhp electric motor, while the larger battery version uses a 208bhp motor. Both have front-wheel drive – there are no dual-motor, four-wheel drive models.Initially, the Epiq will come in SE L and Edition trims, with the former featuring 18-inch alloys, a 13-inch infotainment system with wireless phone connectivity, a five-inch digital cockpit, climate control, and adaptive cruise control.Edition adds sat-nav, heated front seats and steering wheel, wireless phone charging, two-zone climate control, selectable driving modes, keyless entry with a mobile digital key, and the bi-directional charging.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe larger 55 models command a premium over ’40’ cars, while for a limited time at launch, a First Edition model will be offered, offering more luxuries and ‘unique design elements’.The Epiq has a chunky, SUV-like body shape that uses the Czech brand’s new ‘Modern Solid’ design language. There are distinctive O-shaped air intakes, T-shaped front headlights and the firm’s ‘Tech-Deck’ front end.The interior uses a mixture of animal-free materials and textiles, and has a clean and simple layout. Plus, like its Volkswagen ID.Polo sister, it features a range of buttons on the centre console and steering wheel.Practicality is a key theme with the Epiq as the 475-litre boot is roomier than the larger Skoda Elroq’s, plus there’s a 25-litre frunk under the front bonnet. Naturally, being a Skoda, there are the brand’s famous ‘Simply Clever’ features, such as an umbrella in the driver’s door, and there will be a range of packages to add even more practical touches.Order books open in July, initially in SE L and Edition trims with the larger 55 battery.Klaus Zellmer, Skoda Chairman of the Board of Directors, at the world premiere of the new Škoda Epiq electric city car in Zurich. Sadílek Jan/CTK/dpa
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