Why Isn’t Skoda Making a Smaller Electric Car Than the Epiq?
If you’ve been hoping for a tiny, affordable electric Skoda—something to pick up where the Citigo left off—you might want to adjust your expectations. Skoda has made it clear: there’s no plan for a new electric city car smaller than the upcoming Epiq. Instead, they’re doubling down on their tried-and-true entry-level petrol models. But why? Let’s break down what’s really going on behind the scenes.
What’s the Story Behind the Skoda Epiq and Its Place in the Lineup?
The Epiq is set to become Skoda’s smallest electric vehicle, arriving next year. It’s built on the Volkswagen Group’s new MEB Entry platform, which it shares with the Volkswagen ID Polo, ID Cross, and Cupra Raval. These models are all aiming for that sweet spot around £22,000—a price point that’s still a stretch for many, but far more approachable than most EVs on the market today.
The Epiq isn’t just another badge-engineered car. Skoda’s focusing on making it practical, efficient, and—true to their brand—good value for money. But even as the Epiq gets ready to roll out, Skoda’s leadership is looking at the numbers and the market trends, and they’re making some tough calls.
Why Did Skoda Decide Against a Citigo-Sized Electric Car?
Volkswagen is working on the ID Every1, a city car concept that could revive the Up name as an electric model, targeting a price of around £17,000. That’s a tempting proposition for urban drivers. But Skoda’s CEO, Klaus Zellmer, has been upfront: Skoda is “consciously designed not to be part of that market.”
The reasoning is pretty straightforward. Skoda’s current entry-level petrol cars—the Fabia, Kamiq, and Scala—are already strong sellers. They’re affordable, reliable, and, crucially, profitable. Zellmer points out that with the material cost and price Skoda can achieve on these models, they’re in a “strong position.” In other words, why risk squeezing margins further with a low-cost EV when the existing lineup is already delivering?
How Does This Strategy Fit Into the Bigger Picture for Skoda and Volkswagen Group?
This isn’t just about Skoda’s bottom line. It’s also about not stepping on each other’s toes within the Volkswagen Group. Volkswagen has always been the brand that covers the broadest range, from city cars to family SUVs. By letting Volkswagen take the lead on the smallest, most affordable EVs, Skoda can focus on what it does best—offering practical, value-driven cars that appeal to a wide audience.
It’s a smart move from a business perspective. Developing a new electric city car is expensive, and the margins are razor-thin. By focusing on the Epiq and their existing petrol models, Skoda can invest more in technology and quality where it counts, rather than spreading themselves too thin.
Will Skoda’s Entry-Level Petrol Cars Get Greener?
Absolutely. Skoda isn’t ignoring the push for cleaner cars. Sales chief Martin Jahn has confirmed that hybrid technology is on the way for both the Fabia and Kamiq. This means buyers who aren’t ready to make the leap to a full EV will still have greener options—without the sticker shock that often comes with electric cars.
Hybrid systems can offer real-world fuel savings and lower emissions, especially for city driving. It’s a practical step for customers who want to reduce their carbon footprint but aren’t quite ready to go all-in on electric.
What Does This Mean for Shoppers Looking for an Affordable Electric City Car?
If you’re set on a small, budget-friendly electric car, Volkswagen’s upcoming ID Every1 might be your best bet when it arrives. Skoda, meanwhile, will keep offering petrol and hybrid options at the lower end of the market, while the Epiq will serve as their entry point for EVs.
It’s worth noting that the landscape for affordable electric cars is still evolving. Battery costs are dropping, and government incentives can make a big difference. But for now, Skoda’s approach is to play to its strengths—delivering value and reliability, without overextending into a crowded, low-margin segment.
Looking Ahead: Skoda’s Focus and What It Means for Drivers
Skoda’s decision isn’t about turning its back on electric cars. It’s about making smart choices in a rapidly changing market. By focusing on the Epiq and beefing up their hybrid offerings, Skoda is positioning itself to serve both traditional buyers and those ready for electrification.
For drivers, this means more choice—and the reassurance that Skoda’s not rushing into trends just for the sake of it. Whether you’re after a practical petrol hatchback, a hybrid crossover, or an affordable EV, Skoda’s lineup is set to offer something for everyone, without losing sight of what makes the brand tick: value, practicality, and a keen sense of what real-world drivers actually want.