Two new electric Skoda SUVs on the way

Skoda’s first all-electric model previewed by the Vision E SUV concept will be offered in two different bodystyles, Auto Express has learned. 

The Czech brand’s first offering on the VW Group’s bespoke all-electric MEB architecture is due in the second half of 2020. It had been expected to be a scaled-down version of the Vision E concept car - a swoopy coupe SUV - with an unusually long wheelbase of around 2,800mm giving it similar levels of cabin space to Skoda’s own Superb.

• Skoda Vision E concept review

However, Skoda is aiming to offer both practicality and style-focused variants of its first electric car. Bernhard Maier, Skoda CEO, told us at this week's Paris Motor Show: “It will be the first purpose built EV from Skoda and we will offer it in two bodystyles. We are at the final crossing where the design freeze is done and I think having in mind the latest status there really is not much to improve.” 

Asked how the two models would differ and which would arrive first, Maier added: “The first will be very close to the size of the Kodiaq with all the advantages of an electric vehicle, and the second will be one which meets the more emotional design needs of customers.”

The Czech company could highlight this by showing not one but two different concepts of the new model during 2019, ahead of the final production model being revealed in the first half of 2020. It’s a product strategy VW is also employing with its production versions of the I.D. Crozz SUV – a more design-focused variant will follow a more traditional, all-electric SUV model.

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Skoda’s Board Member for Technical Development, Christian Strube, told Auto Express at Paris that his firm’s first offering would be larger than the initial MEB models from VW and SEAT, both of which are expected to be five-door family hatchbacks. 

“Our first MEB car will be a bit longer than them,” Strube said. “It will have basically the same wheelbase but a longer rear overhang.”

Click here for all the latest from the 2018 Paris Motor Show...