Skoda working on electric SUV, launch expected in 2020

Skoda is rumoured to be developing its first ever fully-electric car, which will be a full-size SUV. This Skoda electric SUV is expected to make its world debut in 2020. Interestingly, this will be an all-new standalone vehicle, and won't be based on any existing model.

Skoda believes that EVs are bound to be more expensive than petrol/diesel powered cars. As a result, a customer who is spending a hefty amount on an EV would probably like to get a bigger car. Hence, an SUV electric vehicle makes more sense for the company.

The electric SUV from Skoda will be using VW Group's MEB battery-electric platform. The MEB platform was first introduced under the Volkswagen Budd-e MPV concept that was showcased at this year's Consumer Electronics Show (CES). With this dedicated electric vehicle platform, VW Group is aiming to develop a car that has a range of 482.80 km and can be charged in 15 minutes.

In this platform, the batteries are located in the centre of the platform, below the car's floor. This arrangement liberates more space at the rear to fit a third row of seats.

Skoda is also expected to introduce plug-in hybrid variants of the Superb, and the new Kodiaq SUV in the near future.

Source: Autocar India