Skoda has entered the SUV EV arms race with its smart and sleek Vision E concept at the Shanghai motor show.
CZECH CAR MAKER Skoda has unveiled its Vision E electric vehicle SUV at the Shanghai motor show and it exhibits the new design language to be used for its plug-in electric vehicle range, along with some details of the technology underneath.
The Vision E is based on parent company Volkswagen Group’s Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB) platform but it is not confirmed if the Vision E concept will go into production anytime soon. However Skoda is expected to have an EV on sale by 2020.
Inside the Vision E is a white interior with 20 degree swivel seats which provide easy access and a spacious cabin for its occupants. Mod cons include wireless electric charging door pockets for mobile phones and three infotainment screens.
Safety features include eye tracking and heart rate monitor to calculate driver alertness and possible signs of fatigue, and suggest breaks when required. On top of the safety features, the Skoda Vision E is level 3 autonomous ready, which mean it is able to self-drive for short periods including braking, accelerating and steering in certain conditions. However it requires continuous driver monitoring.
Exterior styling is a departure from conventional petrol and diesel powered models and the omission of a grille, which increases aerodynamic efficiency, is similar to the design first penned on Tesla models. Filling the space unfront instead is a strip of LED lights which connects both headlights. Dimensionally the Vision E is just 9mm shorter than the Kodiaq at 4688mm long but it’s wider at 1917mm wide and has a lower 1550mm tall roof line.
Powering the Vision E are electric motors in both the front and rear which provide a combined power output of 225kW. The car will reach a top speed of 180km/h and its liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery has enough capacity to provide up to 500km range.
Charging the car will be as simple as parking it on top of a wireless induction charging area and an additional quick charge feature will provide 80 per cent, or 400km, charge in 30 minutes.
