Epiq attracts attention even before its premiere

Epiq Is Coming, 

and It Has Plenty to Be Excited About

Škoda’s most affordable electric car was presented to selected media representatives in Porto ahead of its premiere.

Colourful camouflage and the slogan “Ooooh, that’s Epiq,” which can also be read as “Oh, that’s epic!” This is how the upcoming Epiq urban electric SUV crossover model was first shown in action in February in the Portuguese port city of Porto. In addition to initial experiences and reactions to the car, further details about its specifications and equipment have now been revealed. The Epiq will be Škoda’s most affordable electric car and will offer an electric alternative to the Kamiq, with broadly similar dimensions. Its world premiere is scheduled for the first half of this year.

“The Epiq is a milestone model for the development of Škoda’s design. It is the first production car to feature all the elements of the new Modern Solid design language. For the first time, a T-shaped light signature is used on a Škoda production car, which will become a characteristic feature of other models in the future,” says Oliver Stefani, Head of ED – Škoda Design.

MEB+ platform with front-wheel drive

This is the first Škoda car on the new MEB+ platform designed for small electric cars. Unlike the Enyaq and Elroq models, its defining features are front-wheel drive and appropriately sized battery capacities, which maximise interior space, reduce weight and improve energy efficiency. The Epiq will be available in 35, 40 and 55 versions. According to preliminary data, they will offer maximum power outputs ranging from 85 to 155 kW and battery capacities enabling a maximum range of 315 to over 430 kilometres. The smaller 38.5 kWh battery for the 35 and 40 versions is an LFP (lithium–iron–phosphate) design and is produced on a new line at the Mladá Boleslav plant (read more here). The 55-version battery with a capacity of 55 kWh has the same dimensions, but thanks to the NMC (nickel–manganese–cobalt) type, it provides greater energy density, higher capacity and longer range.

A volcano-inspired profile

Epiq already had its debut last year as a concept car, and even the current camouflaged version reveals a number of design elements that will characterise the final look of the model. Engineers once again emphasised aerodynamics and achieved a low drag coefficient (cx = 0.275). A striking feature is the T-shaped front and rear lights. LED technology is standard, with the top-of-the-range version featuring 12-segment Matrix LED headlights with the ability to selectively mask oncoming traffic.

The side profile conveys confidence, and the minimalist approach emphasises the car’s purposeful design. At the same time, it highlights details such as the O-shaped air intakes in the front bumper, behind which are active shutters that improve aerodynamics. The distinctive front end with the Tech-Deck Face is complemented by the Volcano line, named for the shape of a volcano. It conceals air ducts to reduce air resistance. The robust shape of the rear bumper and the unpainted section extending to the rear door sill also reflect the character of an SUV. This is practical too: It helps to protect the bodywork in city traffic and when loading luggage.

Playfulness and smiles

In the somewhat grey February weather in Porto, the Epiq model stood out with its camouflage. The full wrap, featuring colourful plasticine pebbles, stood in striking contrast to the surroundings. “With design camouflage, the key is always to attract attention, even though its main function is paradoxically the opposite. The Epiq driving through the streets in this colourful camouflage is also meant to evoke a sense of playfulness and bring a smile to passers-by’s faces,” explained Petr Petzet from the ED – Škoda Design department, who worked on the camouflage with his colleague Jan Kovařík. The motif used is based on a forthcoming marketing campaign built around plasticine shapes that cluster together and move through the streets. “This is an integrated approach to communicating the new model, on which several departments are collaborating,” added P. Petzet. Epiq was unveiled last autumn at the Munich Motor Show in the form of a show car. However, some elements and details of the final version will differ. “We therefore camouflaged the test car to the usual degree, especially with regard to concealing the differences from the concept that has already been presented. The full wrap also sparks curiosity and imagination among future customers,” said P. Petzet.

Interior minimalism

We cannot offer you any photos of the interior yet. However, we can reveal that the designers have opted for a minimalist style. Buyers will be able to choose from three stylish interior themes with fabric upholstery made from 100% recycled polyester fibres. The entry-level option is Studio, while Loft sits above it, combining shades of grey or mint green with a new textured pattern that is pleasant to the touch and features Techtona synthetic leather on the dashboard and door panels. The top-of-the-range Suite version features seats with a 3D pattern of Suedia material and Techtona artificial leather in Tabora brown.

The Epiq also offers a range of Simply Clever features and advanced third-generation assistance systems enabled by the MEB+ platform. These include advanced adaptive lane guidance in both longitudinal and lateral directions across the entire speed range. The system also has the ability to respond to traffic lights and road signs, including stop and give-way signs, by automatically stopping, and includes daily online updates of traffic signs to enable the car to respond as accurately as possible in heavy traffic.

Another new feature is Cross Assist 2.0, which uses radar sensors in the corners of the bumper to assist with entering obscured junctions and warns of passing cars or cyclists.