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    Mahindra Volkswagen Eye Electric Future with New 50:50 Joint Venture

    Mahindra Volkswagen 50:50 Partnership Confirmed?Strategic Collaboration to Focus on Electric SUVs for Indian and Global Markets, Excluding Current Volkswagen and Skoda Models
    There have been rumours about a strategic joint venture between Mahindra Auto and Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Pvt Ltd (SAVWIPL). Now, a new Economic Times report claims that SAVWIPL has reached advanced stages of negotiations to consolidate a 50:50 partnership with Mahindra Auto. Let’s take a look.
    Mahindra Volkswagen Group – 50:50 Partnership
    A wholly-owned subsidiary of Volkswagen Group Germany, SAVWIPL was reportedly looking forward to sell around 50% of its stake in India business. While the speculation was not officially confirmed, new report reveals a potential 50:50 partnership with Mahindra Auto. This potential joint venture from both these car manufacturers is supposedly in advanced stages of negotiations. This JV seems to have progressed across multiple rounds of virtual and in-person engagements from both companies.
    This comes a couple of months after Skoda Auto Global CEO, Klaus Zellmer, revealed in Prague, that the company has made great progress in looking for a potential partnership with an Indian auto manufacturer. On record, both Mahindra and Volkswagen have refrained from commenting on this development officially. The report further elaborates that this joint venture between VW and Mahindra will prioritize the development and manufacturing of BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles) and to some extent, ICE vehicles, for Indian market and exports.
    SAVWIPL’s current portfolio including the mainstream offerings from Skoda and VW along with luxury offerings from other brands in the structure will not be a part of this joint venture. There might be an official announcement regarding the same from Skoda and Mahindra by the end of this calendar year.
    Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUV
    What does this JV allow?
    This is not the first time Mahindra has partnered with global brands. Mahindra has had associations with Renault, SsangYong (now KG Mobility), Ford and recently, Volkswagen. Mahindra and Volkswagen partnered up for a supply agreement where VW supplied the former with electric vehicle powertrain components for the INGLO platform underpinning the upcoming XUV.e and BE range of EVs.
    For SAVWIPL, this partnership could help them achieve a firm footing in world’s 3rd largest car market. Something the company has not managed to achieve on its own, despite being operational here for over two decades. The competition from rival brands along with their cost competitiveness seems to have cornered the brand into looking for a potential partner.
    With Mahindra, SAVWIPL will be able to share costs, technology, platforms and mainly, risks. For Mahindra, this JV can help them elevate their electric vehicle portfolio and meet their roadmap of achieving a 30% market share in India’s SUV segment. There will be a major boost in Mahindra’s Electric portfolio with this JV too.
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    New Skoda Compact Electric SUV Details Revealed – 560 Kms Range, 3 Battery Options

    New Skoda Compact Electric SUVSkoda’s newest electric SUV will be offered with three battery pack options, with max range of 560 kmAfter launching its first electric model, the Enyaq, Skoda has started work on an entirely new compact electric SUV named the Elroq. Just like the Enyaq, the Elroq will also be underpinned by the MEB platform. World premiere of Skoda Elroq is expected by the end of this year.Skoda Elroq electric SUV – Key featuresElroq follows Skoda’s latest ‘Modern Solid’ design language. According to Skoda’s chief designer, Oliver Stefani, Elroq will be a visual treat for the eyes and could emerge as a trendsetter. While the test mule is heavily camouflaged, one can see glimpses of the captivating matrix-LED headlights and top-mounted LED DRLs. Other noticeable highlights include a small lower grille and Skoda logo on the hood.New Skoda Compact Electric SUVSide profile has thick body cladding, conventional door handles and a prominent shoulder line. The SUV has short front and rear overhangs, ensuring a sleek outline. Based on the variant, wheel size will be 19-inch or 20-inch.Skoda has revealed that the wheels of Elroq SUV will be aerodynamically optimized. These will have an overall drag coefficient of 0.26, which is pretty good. At the rear, Skoda Elroq has edgy wraparound tail lamps and a prominent bumper.New Skoda Compact Electric SUVInteriorsWhile interiors are yet to be revealed, one can expect a focus on ensuring a sense of enhanced roominess. Interiors of Elroq will be offering exceptional comfort and practicality. Some of the key features likely include a digital instrument console, a large touchscreen infotainment system, head-up display, ambient lighting and a wide range of connectivity options. Elroq will be using environmentally friendly materials in line with Skoda’s goal to reduce its carbon footprint.New Skoda Compact Electric SUVTech kit includes features such as advanced driving assistance systems and remote parking. A comprehensive range of safety features will be available including up to nine airbags. The SUV will have plenty of storage compartments and boot space of 470 litres. With the rear seats folded, boot space can be increased to 1,580 litres.Skoda Elroq – Variants, powertrain, performance, rangeSkoda will offer the Elroq in four trims – Elroq 50, 60, 85 and 85x. Base-spec Elroq will be equipped with a 55kW battery and a 168 hp electric motor mounted on the rear axle. Elroq 60 will have a 63-kW battery pack and a 201 hp electric motor, also powering the rear wheels. Both these variants will have a top speed of 160 km/h.New Skoda Compact Electric SUVTop-spec Elroq 85 and 85x will be equipped with an 82-kWh battery pack. While the Elroq 85 has a 282 hp rear motor, the 85x gets an additional small electric motor mounted on the front axle. Combined output is 295 hp. Elroq 85 and 85x will have a range of 560 km.While all Elroq variants will support DC fast charging, the 175-kW charging option will be offered with only the 85 and 85x models. With a DC charger, all models will be able to load 10-80% in around 28 minutes. An 11 kW AC charger will be available for all models of Skoda Elroq. More

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    New Skoda Epiq Is A 4.1m Electric SUV – Is This India Bound?

    New Skoda Epiq Electric CrossoverAs opposed to the current crop of EVs from the company, new Skoda Epiq is the first representation of “Modern Solid” design languageFueling the electric vehicle onslaught, Skoda is launching six new EVs by the end of 2026. For India, however, Skoda has announced a sub 4m SUV at its recent event that could spawn a full-electric counterpart at a later date. Skoda has now introduced Epiq sub compact electric crossover which may find its way to our shores.Skoda Epiq Is A 4.1m Electric SUVWhat exactly is Skoda Epiq? The company calls it a design study, rather than a concept. But in reality, Skoda Epiq looks like a near production ready prototype that is undergoing studio photoshoot for advert material. Meaning, that this design study is so practical and mature, it looks ready for production.Skoda Epiq RearTouted as “small but epic”, Skoda Epiq is the first vehicle (design study) from the brand to sport its new “Modern Solid” design language. This is slightly different to what Skoda teased at the recent event on its upcoming sub 4m SUV. Targeted starting price of this vehicle is EUR 25,000 which translates to Rs. 22.5 lakh with today’s currency exchange rates.Skoda Epiq is a 4.1m long e-crossover that could be rounded-up as an electric version of Kamiq. However, being a born electric vehicle, Skoda Epiq boasts increased practicality over Kamiq. Born electric vehicles are blessed with better space optimisation by OEMs and Epiq sports a 490L boot space, which is roughly 20% larger than Kamiq’s.Skoda Epiq DashboardHow does it look?The Modern Solid design language is fairly handsome. We are sure this design wouldn’t split any opinions if launched in India. There are sleek LED DRLs on either end of Epiq’s fascia. These DRLs are coupled with fang-like LEDs vertically arranged, giving them an inverted L-like shape. Headlights are positioned below these fangs, engulfed in a black trim.New Skoda Epiq Electric CrossoverSkoda’s typical moustache is still present, but is sleeker and a lot appealing. Lower bumper has 8 massive vertical openings that lend an interesting direction. Side profile is strong with a thick and upright C-pillar. Door handles are conventional and there are swanky aero wheels. Floating roof effect and black body cladding all-around are other notable elements.Tail lights have T-shaped LED signature and the same 8 vertical openings can be seen in rear bumper too. Skoda lettering in Red sits on the neatly sculpted tailgate proudly. Chunky roof rails and glass roof are noteworthy.New Skoda Epiq Electric CrossoverPowertrain and specsOn the inside, Skoda Epiq looks modern and minimal. There is a layered dashboard, a free-standing infotainment screen, a small digital cluster, 2-spoke steering, a few buttons below the infotainment screens and seating for five. Skoda has tastefully played with white and orange shades for striking contrast.Powertrain-wise, Skoda Epiq will be underpinned by MEB Entry platform. Only FWD drivetrain is highly likely with this vehicle. Battery size is unknown and WLTP range could be in the ballpark of 400 km. Skoda Epiq might break covers in 2025 and the exact vehicle is less likely to reach our shores. More

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    Skoda India Event On 27th Feb – New Era of Skoda Auto India Begins (EVs, New SUVs Incoming)

    Skoda India event on 27th Feb 2024Strong auto sector growth in India has prompted OEMs to boost investments towards portfolio and capacity expansionSkoda-Volkswagen’s India 2.0 project has turned out to be a success with popular products such as Kushaq/Taigun and Slavia/Virtus. As the Indian auto market is showing high growth potential, Skoda and Volkswagen will step-up focus on portfolio expansion. Upcoming Skoda and Volkswagen cars, part of India 2.5 roadmap, will include both EVs and ICE models.New Era of ŠkodaSkoda Auto India, which also includes Volkswagen India brand under its umbrella, has scheduled an event on 27th Feb 2024. Not much has been revealed. The invite reads, “As we step into the ‘New Era of Škoda’, we cordially invite you to join us for an important brand announcement.” This announcement has sparked speculation and excitement within the automotive community as enthusiasts eagerly await what could potentially be a groundbreaking revelation.Skoda Auto India event on 27th Feb 2024The event promises to mark a pivotal moment in Skoda’s journey in India. The brand has consistently been associated with innovation, performance, and cutting-edge technology, making it a formidable player in the competitive automotive market. With the cryptic invitation, Skoda has left the media and enthusiasts alike speculating about the nature of the announcement and the possible innovations that might be unveiled.The phrase “New Era of Škoda” suggests a transformative shift, indicating that the brand may be ready to redefine its identity in the Indian market. With EVs in focus, it is likely that Skoda is preparing to launch new gen EVs in India. Both Skoda and Volkswagen have been testing their EVs on Indian roads for quite some time. Skoda is likely to launch Enyaq iV in the coming months, while Volkswagen could launch the ID.4 GTX.Skoda Enyaq iV electric spied in India. Image – Sarthak ShewaleSkoda Enyaq iV specs, rangeSkoda Enyaq iV all-electric SUV utilizes Volkswagen’s MEB born-electric platform. This platform is also in use with other models such as Volkswagen ID 4 and Audi Q4 e-tron crossovers. Enyaq iV will be a 5-seat SUV, with length and width of 4,648 mm and 1,877 mm, respectively. In comparison, Skoda Kodiaq is only slightly longer at 4,699 mm. Enyaq test mules have been spotted on road tests in India. It appears that different models are being tested, with varying power outputs.Volkswagen ID.4 GTX spied in India. Image – VinayakMost commonly spotted model is the Enyaq iV 80x, which is equipped with a 77-kWh battery. It supports DC fast charging of up to 125 kW. This is the highest configuration available with the Enyaq. With one motor each on the front and rear axle, Enyaq gets AWD capability. Total output is 265 hp. Enyaq iV 80x can achieve 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds. As per WLTP standards, Enyaq iV 80x has a range of 513 km. Volkswagen also has plans to launch new EVs in India. Test mules of ID.4 SUV have been spotted multiple times. The SUV has the same platform as the Enyaq. However, ID 4 SUV launch plans are yet to be confirmed. An official announcement can be made later this year.Skoda new sub-4-meter SUVIn the ICE segment, Skoda is working on a new sub-4-meter compact SUV that will rival the likes of Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Venue and Kia Sonet. To keep prices in check, Skoda will be targeting high localization of around 90 percent. A number of parts such as infotainment and instrumentation, electrical components, suspension, seats, etc. are expected to be borrowed from other Skoda cars such as Kushaq. Production is expected to commence in January 2025.2025 Skoda Sub 4m SUV RenderPowertrain options for Skoda’s upcoming sub-4-meter SUV could include the existing 1.0-litre TSI and the 1.5-litre TSI turbo petrol engines. As only the 1.0-litre engine will qualify for tax benefits, it is likely that the larger 1.5-litre unit could only be available with top-spec variants. In addition to the domestic market, Skoda’s new sub-4-meter compact SUV will also be targeted at overseas markets such as Mexico and Africa.As the countdown to February 27 begins, all eyes are on Skoda India. The automotive community eagerly awaits the unveiling of the ‘New Era of Skoda,’ anticipating a landmark moment that could redefine the brand’s trajectory in the Indian market. Stay tuned for comprehensive coverage and analysis as Skoda takes the stage, revealing what promises to be a groundbreaking chapter in its storied history. More

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    2024 Skoda Electric Small Car (XUV400 Rival), Compact EV SUV Teased

    Skoda Electric Car Launch PlansSkoda has revealed details about their upcoming electric cars and SUVs – These includes a small electric car of 4.1m length and compact electric SUV of 4.5m length
    Skoda has extensive plans to expand its electric vehicle range in the coming 5-7 years. The new electric line-up will include three new SUVs, an estate car and two new Enyaq models. This complete range of electric vehicles will cover Small, Compact, Combi, and Space styles along with facelifted versions of the Enyaq, Enyaq Coupe and the Elroq Crossover.
    Apart from the new lineup of electric vehicles, late last year, Skoda had also announced a new brand identity. It includes a new logo and brand identity which is part of the automaker’s Strategy 2030. The new logo is two dimensional as against the older three dimensional design, thus making it easier to recognize and print. The new logo will be seen on the front and rear of all cars and will start appearing on all new Skoda models from 2024.
    New Compact Electric SUV and Small Electric Car
    Of the 6 new electric cars that have been announced, the two that have the highest probability of making it to India are the Compact Electric SUV called Elroq and yet to be named small electric car. New Skoda Elroq EV will be 4.5m in length while the small electric car will be 4.1m in length.
    Based on the company’s Modern Solid design theme, the Elroq will get a tough front end named Tech Deck, squared off wheel arches and large skid plates at the front and rear. It is expected to receive a 77kWh battery pack offering a range of around 480 kms.
    Skoda Compact Electric SUV – 4.5m length
    Next in line is the ‘Small’ SUV from Skoda set for launch in 2025. Coming in a sub-compact SUV stance, the model will measure 4.1 meters in length and will be priced around €25,000 / US$ 27,432 / INR 22,48,900. It will take on the likes of Nexon EV and XUV400, if launched in India.
    Skoda Small Electric Car – 4.1m length
    Skoda Combi and Space SUV by 2026
    The Skoda Combi concept will replace the Octavia which is one of the company’s best-selling wagons in Europe. The Combi electric will measure 4700mm in length. The Space SUV is also expected to make its debut in 2026 as the company’s flagship model. It will measure 4900mm in length thus making it around 200mm longer than the Kodiaq SUV. The Skoda Space was previewed as the Vision 7S electric SUV and is directed towards buyers with larger families. It is claimed to draw power via an 89 kWh battery pack with a claimed driving range of 600kms.
    Skoda Enyaq and Enyaq Coupe is also a part of the company’s set of electric vehicles planned for launch. These two models were launched in 2020 and 2022 respectively but are due for a mid-life facelift in 2025, sporting the brand’s new design language. Both these models will continue to be produced at the Skoda plant in Mladá Boleslav in Czechia.
    Skoda Electric Car Launch Plans
    Along with these electric vehicles, Skoda has also announced that the Octavia, Kamiq and Scala will be updated with new designs. The Kamiq and Scala are set for launch later this year, while the updated Octavia will arrive in 2024. More

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    Skoda Enyaq iV Electric Variants and Drive Range – Specs, Top speed

    The new Skoda electric car derives its name from the Irish word – Enya; which means ‘Source of Life’
    Skoda tradition to affix the letter ‘Q’ after the name of their cars, is seen on the new Enyaq too. This was seen in the Kamiq, Karoq and Kodiaq. The iV is reserved for its electric models like the Citigo-e iV.

    The 2021 Skoda Enyaq iV is based on the MEB architecture. It was showcased as the Skoda Vision iV concept at 2019 Geneva Motor Show. In its production ready format, Enyaq iV gets a ‘Crystal Face’, and a new design direction, which will be seen on all future Skoda models. The front features an illuminated crystal grille with 130 LEDs.
    Headlamps and taillamp are LED units. Skoda is also offering Matrix LED headlamps as an option. Enyaq iV gets a curved roofline, and rounded bonnet. While base models sit on 19 inch alloy wheels, the top spec variants get 21 inch alloys. Design elements at the rear include angular brake lamps, ‘SKODA’ badging on its bootlid and silver, black or body coloured plastics on the lower rear bumper and side skirts.

    2021 Skoda Enyaq iV interior is minimal and boasts of a clutter free look. Customers will be able to personalize interiors with a choice of natural, processed and recycled material in a range of 10 theme packs. It gets a 5 inch driver display unit and a 13 inch touchscreen infotainment system which shares its user interface with other Skoda cars and a virtual cockpit. The touchscreen offers controls to in-cabin climate while it also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with Skoda’s latest ‘Laura’ personal assistant.
    There are some advanced features with voice recognition software which picks up commands from the user. The command ‘I’m Hot’ will automatically reduce cabin temperature. Updates to the system are done via a built in internet connection so owners no longer need to visit company dealerships for software updates.

    There’s a new 3-spoke steering wheel, several storage spaces, including 18 litre storage space under driver arm rest. There is also a large boot of 585 litere capacity, and an adjustable boot floor to accommodate charging cables.
    Specs and Charging
    Skoda will offer the Enyaq in 3 battery and 5 output choices. Entry-level Skoda Enyaq 50 iV is powered by a 55 kWh battery. It features a rear-mounted electric motor, that delivers 109 hp and max torque of 220 Nm. 0-100 kms acceleration time is 11.4 seconds while drive range is 340 kms.
    Enyaq 60 iV features a larger 62-kWh battery that delivers 177 hp and maximum torque of 310 Nm. 0-100 kmph is achieved in 8.7 seconds and drive range is 390 km. Enyaq 80 iV gets 82 kWh battery that delivers 201 hp and 310 Nm. It has a drive range of 510 km while 0-100 kmph is achieved in 8.5 seconds.

    Enyaq 80x iV has the same battery as the 80, but has two electric motors, which deliver 261 hp and 425 Nm. This improves acceleration of 0-100 kmph to 6.9 seconds, but drops drive range to 460 kms. Top of the line Enyaq RS iV delivers even more power and torque – 302 hp and 460 Nm. It does 0-100 in 6.2 seconds and has top speed of 180 kmph. Drive range is same as the 80x, at 460 kms.
    The batteries will be charged via a 50 kW DC charging system or via a 100 kW DC fast charger; for the models with 62 kW batteries. The larger 82 kW batteries get a 125 kW DC charger. Charging from 5 to 80 percent will be completed in 38 minutes via a 125 kW fast charger, while a 11 kW wall charger will take 6-8 hours for a full charge.
    2021 Skoda Enyaq iV Price

    Skoda Enyaq iV will go on sale in UK markets from later this year. The Enyaq iV 60 will be priced from £33,450 (Rs. 32,71,648). Taking advantage of Government grants for electric cars, the price will dip to £30,450 (Rs. 29,77,801). Skoda Enyaq iV 80 will cost £38,950 (Rs. 38,10,156) while the Skoda Enyaq iV 80 Founders Edition (limited Edition) will go up to £49,995 (Rs. 48,90,597). Founders Edition is limited to 1,895 units and is a tribute to the brand’s 125-year history. More

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    Skoda Enyaq iV electric crossover SUV debut on Sep 1 – Official sketches

    The upcoming Skoda Enyaq crossover SUV employs Volkswagen Group’s MEB (Modular Electrification Toolkit) architecture
    Czech-origin automaker Skoda Auto, under Volkswagen Group, has released a fresh set of sketches or renders of its upcoming all-electric crossover SUV, Enyaq iV. The official debut will happen in Prague on September 1, 2020. Sporting Skoda Auto’s latest design and styling principles, the new Enyaq will be the first product to come out of Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform. Translated to English, MEB expands to Modular Electrification Toolkit.

    The company states that the Skoda Enyaq marks a new era in its timeline. According to the design team, the crossover SUV showcases “emotive lines and balanced, dynamic proportions” in addition to a “generous interior”. It is claimed to offer a “sustainable yet fun driving experience”.
    Global OEMs are heavily concentrating on all-electric powertrains across a wide price segment. Due to their immense demand, SUV or crossover body styles have become the go-to choices for newer electric products.

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    Karl Neuhold, Head of Exterior Design at Skoda Auto, has given a brief overview of the Enyaq’s vision and styling philosophy. The ‘emotive Skoda design language’ is already familiar to the world thanks to the new-gen Scala hatchback, Kamiq subcompact crossover and Octavia compact sedan (as per European standards).
    Fresh styling philosophy
    The upcoming Skoda Enyaq features sculpted lines, clear surfaces as well as crystalline elements inspired by Bohemian crystal art. Unlike existing Skoda SUVs and crossovers, the Enyaq has a shorted front end alongside an elongated roofline. Karl Neuhold comments that this unique trait gives the EV “a very dynamic look” and transforms it into a “proverbial space shuttle”. Large wheels and high ground clearance further strengthen its ‘SUV presence’.
    Being an all-electric product, the Enyaq does not need a large front grille for cooling or induction purposes. However, the signature ‘butterfly grille’ has always been one of the most significant bits on modern-day Skodas and hence, could not be easily omitted. On the new Enyaq, the grille component is set further forward and upright, blending well with the full-LED headlamps flanking it on each side.
    Functional design
    Compared to a mainstream ICE model under Volkswagen Group (employing MLB architecture), MEB products differ significantly in terms of height and overhangs. The battery pack rests inside the floor panel and demands taller body styles. The relatively long wheelbase of the new Enyaq hides this fact. Shorter overhangs were possible since the electric powertrain and its components take much lesser space than a conventional ICE example. Furthermore, the Skoda Enyaq iV boasts of an impressive drag coefficient of 0.27. More

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    Skoda Enyaq EV announced – The Czech brand’s first electric vehicle

    Skoda Enyaq, the first EV (electric vehicle) from the Czech brand, is based on Volkswagen’s MEB platform. Skoda Auto has announced the debut of the Enyaq; the brand’s very first series-production electric vehicle. The global automotive market is paving a new path in the field of emission-free mobility (especially in the premium segment) and the […] More