Skoda Vision iV concept previews 2021 electric Skoda SUV

The Skoda Vision iV concept car has been revealed today at the Geneva Motor Show, serving as a preview of Skoda's first all-electric car. It's based on the same underpinnings as three other Volkswagen Group models at the event, and is designed to take on Tesla and emerging all-electric rivals like the Polestar 2.

An evolution of the Skoda Vision E concept first seen at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, the production version of the Vision iV is expected to arrive in 2021. The concept is powered by two electric motors, propelling the front and rear axles separately, with a total of 302bhp. This will get it from 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds - faster than any current Skoda - and on to a limited top speed of 112mph.

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The car’s lithium-ion 82kWh battery pack offers a driving range of up to 310 miles (WLTP). It's liquid cooled and can also be replenished to 80% in just 30 minutes using the latest fast-charging points.

With an SUV-coupe silhouette, the Vision iV is quite unlike any other model in Skoda's current SUV range, as it’s considerably lower than the Skoda Kodiaq or Skoda Karoq. The concept also boasts some features that are more likely to make it to production than others, from rear-view cameras (instead of door mirrors) to handleless doors, 22-inch alloy wheels and LED Matrix headlights.

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Unlike some concepts, the Vision iV also boasts a fully-formed interior, with a 'floating' infotainment system ahead of the centre console, digital instruments and a two-spoke steering wheel. Birch veneer decorates the interior and a pair of futuristic sports seats swivel on mounts - a feature that's likely to be simplified for production. Without the need for the transmission tunnel of a conventionally powered car, Skoda also says the car will be able to offer more space for passengers and luggage. Skoda also claims to have used eco-friendly materials in the manufacture of its upholstery and floor mats.

With an eye on technology, two smartphones can be connected at once and there's wireless charging for compatible devices. You'll also be able to use your phone as the car's key and get a 5G data connection. Real-time traffic updates and intelligent speech recognition are also promised. A myriad of sensors and scanners dotted around the outside of the car also enable 'level 3 autonomous' driving, taking over certain duties on motorways and in traffic.

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This follow-up to the Vision E concept from 2017, is intended to give a further preview of the second design of Skoda’s upcoming electric SUV. Speaking to Carbuyer at last year’s Paris Motor Show, Skoda CEO Bernhard Maier told us: “The first purpose-built EV from Skoda - we will offer it in two body styles. The first will be very close to the size of the Kodiaq, and the second will be one which meets the more emotional design needs of customers.”

Skoda is investing nearly £2bn in ‘alternative drive systems’ as it seeks to make the Vision iV one of ten fully electric models hitting showrooms by 2022.

Do you want to know what‘s coming to the 2019 Geneva Motor Show? Check out our full preview for all the details.