Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
The Škoda Epiq’s bold entry into the electric vehicle market promises a thrilling blend of power and efficiency, captured in a blur of vibrant color and motion.Today in PittsburghŠkoda has finally lifted the curtain on the technical details of its fully electric Epiq, set to debut in the first half of 2026. The Epiq lineup features three variants – the base Epiq 35 with 85 kW, the Epiq 40 with 99 kW, and the top-of-the-line Epiq 55 with 155 kW. The models offer WLTP ranges of 315 km for the LFP battery-equipped Epiq 35 and 40, and an impressive 430 km for the NMC battery-powered Epiq 55. While the Epiq promises versatility and performance, Škoda has yet to reveal pricing, leaving questions about its affordability.
Why it matters
Škoda’s entry into the electric vehicle market with the Epiq is a significant move, as the brand aims to offer a practical and capable electric SUV to compete with models like the VW ID. Cross. The three-variant approach provides customers with a range of power and battery options to choose from, catering to different needs and budgets. However, the pricing strategy will be crucial in determining the Epiq’s success and whether it can truly disrupt the crowded EV market.
The details
Under the hood, the Epiq features the APP290 electric motor, tailored for front-wheel-drive efficiency. Charging options are impressively flexible, with all variants supporting 11 kW AC charging and DC charging speeds ranging from 50 kW to 133 kW, depending on the model. Škoda claims the LFP battery can charge from 10% to 80% in just 28 minutes at 90 kW, while the NMC battery shaves that time down to 23 minutes. However, the Epiq 35’s DC charging is limited to 50 kW, which might leave some potential buyers disappointed.
- The Epiq was unveiled as a near-production concept at the IAA Mobility in September 2025.
- The Epiq is set to debut in the first half of 2026.
The players
Škoda
A Czech automobile manufacturer and a subsidiary of Volkswagen Group, known for producing affordable and practical vehicles.
Volkswagen ID. Cross
An upcoming electric SUV model from Volkswagen, which the Epiq is expected to compete with.
Cupra Raval
An electric vehicle model from the Cupra brand, a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group.
Volkswagen ID. Polo
An electric hatchback model from Volkswagen, which shares some of the Epiq’s power output and battery options.
Škoda Elroq
An existing electric SUV model from Škoda, which may serve as a reference point for the Epiq’s performance and features.
Škoda Enyaq
Another electric SUV model from Škoda, which may also provide insights into the brand’s approach to electric vehicles.
Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›
What’s next
As the Epiq’s 2026 launch approaches, the focus will be on Škoda’s pricing strategy and whether the model can truly stand out in the increasingly competitive electric SUV market.
The takeaway
The Škoda Epiq represents the brand’s ambitious foray into the electric vehicle segment, offering a range of power and battery options to cater to different customer needs. However, the success of the Epiq will ultimately depend on its ability to balance performance, efficiency, and affordability in a crowded EV market.
