The Skoda Epiq has been caught testing for the first time on public roads, marking a significant milestone for the Czech automaker’s most affordable electric vehicle. Scheduled to make its global debut in 2026, the heavily camouflaged prototype reveals that Skoda’s entry-level EV will share design elements with its larger siblings, including the Elroq and Enyaq.
This baby electric SUV is designed to sit underneath the larger Elroq and Enyaq in Skoda’s ever-expanding SUV range when it arrives in 2026. The Epiq will become Skoda’s smallest and cheapest electric car, targeting a starting price of around €25,000 (approximately £21,300).
Design and Features: Modern Solid Language
These latest spy pictures suggest that the road-going Epiq will retain the concept’s chunky, rugged proportions as well as the lower split grille at the front. The spotted model clearly shows the familiar ‘Tech Deck’ face with a gloss-black panel housing radars for ADAS technology, featuring Elroq-like headlamps and daytime running lights.
The new Skoda Epiq is the firm’s first model to use its new design language, called ‘Modern Solid’, which represents “the next level of modernity” with a powerful, functional and authentic look. From the side, the Epiq utilises a shorter wheelbase, plus cut-down front and rear overhangs, with stubbier overall proportions allowing it to compete in the budget EV segment.
Technical Specifications and Range
The Epiq will be built on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB Entry platform, sharing technology with the upcoming VW ID.2 and Cupra Raval. Power will come from a front-mounted electric motor, with no official outputs yet confirmed, but the ID 2 will pump out between 180bhp and 223bhp depending on the version.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 4.1 metres (shorter than 4.5-metre Elroq) |
| Boot Space | 490 litres (same as VW ID.2 concept) |
| Range | Over 400km (249 miles) WLTP |
| Battery Options | 38kWh and 56kWh units |
| Charging Speed | Up to 125kW (10-80% in 20 minutes) |
| Seating | Five-seat practicality |
Pricing and Market Position
Skoda is aiming for a price tag of around £22,000 for the Epiq, with the entry-level 38kWh version likely starting from this price point, rising to around £30,000 for a top-of-the-range model with the bigger battery. This positions it competitively against rivals like the Citroen e-C3 and forthcoming BYD Atto 2.
Government Support for Electric Vehicles
The UK government continues to support electric vehicle adoption through various grant schemes. The government offers grants to help with the cost of buying and installing chargepoints for electric vehicles, providing up to £350 towards installation costs.
Available Grants and Incentives
Current government incentives include the Electric Vehicle Chargepoint Grant for flat owners and renters, and the Workplace Charging Scheme for businesses. The WCS has funded the installation of 60,918 sockets, with a total grant value of £22.3 million, in workplace carparks since the scheme started in 2016.
With over 382,000 electric cars sold in 2024 – up a fifth on the previous year – there’s never been a better time to switch to EVs, with one in 3 used electric cars under £20,000 and 21 brand new electric cars with RRP under £30,000.
Market Competition
The Epiq will compete primarily with the ID.2 and Cupra Raval, but also face competition from the Dacia Spring’s £15,000 price tag and the upcoming Renault 4. The vehicle’s practical focus aligns with Skoda’s reputation for offering clever, functional cars that suit various needs.
As part of a push by the wider VW Group, the Epiq is expected to feature an array of physical buttons for key functions, including on the steering wheel, and will major on storage with its generous boot space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the Skoda Epiq be available for purchase?
A: The Skoda Epiq is expected to be revealed in late 2025, with sales likely beginning in 2026.
Q: What is the expected starting price of the Skoda Epiq?
A: Prices aren’t yet confirmed, but the concept targeted around £21,300, making it one of the most affordable new electric SUVs.
Q: How does the Epiq’s range compare to competitors?
A: The Epiq will offer more than 248 miles of range, which is further than entry-level versions of the BYD Dolphin and MG4 EV.
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