New Skoda Vision iV concept previews 2021 all-electric SUV at Geneva

This is the Skoda Vision iV, a new SUV concept that sits on the VW Group’s all-electric MEB platform.  It was one of four VW Group cars at this year’s Geneva Motor Show to feature the platform, including the VW ID. Buggy and SEAT el-Born concepts.

The Vision iV concept follows on from the Czech firm’s Vision E concept from the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show and, according to Skoda, offers a reliable indication of an upcoming all-electric production model, which will arrive in 2021.

Skoda Vision iV concept – powertrain and performance

The Vision iV concept is driven by two electric motors, one powering the front axle and one the rear, which combine to produce a total output of 302bhp. Skoda claims a 0–62mph time of 5.9 seconds, a 50–75mph time of less than four seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 112mph.

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The motors are powered by a liquid-cooled 82kWh lithium-ion battery, mounted between the vehicle’s axles. Skoda says the battery pack offers up to 310 miles of range under the WLTP testing regime and can be charged to 80 per cent capacity in 30 minutes.

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Design and technology

The coupe-SUV profile is rounded off with a number of trademark concept car design features, including electrically-operated doors bereft of handles, rear-view cameras in place of conventional wing mirrors, and huge 22-inch alloy wheels. The headlights are LED Matrix units.

Inside, the Vision iV concept gets a floating infotainment system in the middle of the dash, a unique two-spoke steering wheel, a digital instrument binnacle, birch veneer trim and a pair of deep bucket seats attached to swivelling mounts. Skoda also says it was conscientious in its concept’s construction, using eco-friendly materials for its floor mats and upholstery.

Two mobile phones can be connected to the concept’s infotainment system, and the dash offers support for wireless charging. Also, as the all-electric Vision iV has no need for a traditional transmission tunnel, Skoda says it offers more interior space than an equivalent fossil-fuelled vehicle.

Skoda’s latest show car also features level 3 autonomous capability. Thanks to an array of cameras, laser scanners and connectivity features, Skoda claims the Vision iV can take complete control of its own steering, throttle and brakes when travelling on motorways. In addition, the concept features park assist and traffic jam assist.

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Other technology highlights include gesture control, “phone-as-key” support, a permanent on-board 5G connection, a driver well-being monitor, real-time traffic updates and intelligent speech recognition, which Skoda claims can understand entire sentences and various dialects.

Speaking to Auto Express at last year’s Paris Auto 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.”

The Vision iV debuts alongside some showroom ready metal at the show - Skoda has also revealed the new Kamiq compact crossover.

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