Skoda has revealed the first glimpse of its electric future with the Vision iV Concept, which previews a new electric SUV for the firm.
Unveiled at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, the model previews the first Skoda to be built using the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform, which is set to underpin VW’s new ‘I.D.’ range and Seat’s ‘el-Born’ EV that has also been unveiled at the event.
But Skoda’s promising that its electric models aren’t going to be slow, as the Vision iV’s two electric motors produce 301bhp, with the power sent to all four wheels. This allows the iV to accelerate from 0-60mph in a rapid 5.7 seconds. Skoda also promises an electric range of 310 miles.
The concept also looks to set a new design direction for the Czech manufacturer, with its revised grille and Matrix LED headlights. A full-width light bar also features, as do automatically-opening doors and cameras instead of conventional wing mirrors. Illuminated 22-inch alloy wheels also feature on the concept.
Welcome to the future.
— ŠKODA UK Media (@SKODAUK_Media) March 5, 2019
Production version goes on sale next year.
• 500 km (+300 mile) range
• 80% change in under 30 mins
• 306 PS#skoda #VISIONiV #genevamotorshow #work #electric #cars pic.twitter.com/64EPudFmGY
It also features a new level of autonomy, with the model able to park and drive itself in certain situations.
Skoda is also showing off a system whereby the driver’s or passenger’s smartphone can be used to unlock and start the car, with seamless smartphone connectivity throughout.
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And despite all its tech, it manages to be impressively practical at the same time, even with its compact dimensions. The boot offers 550 litres of space, which isn’t too far off the size of Skoda’s Octavia hatchback, with the firm promising a generously sized passenger area.
Oliver Stefani, head of design at Skoda, said: “The minimalist design, also highlighted by the use of cameras instead of wing mirrors or by the lack of door handles, symbolises how easy our electric cars are to use. What’s more, illuminated design features and new light technology add exciting visual touches.”
Following on from the Vision iV concept, it’s expected that a production electric SUV will arrive in 2021.
