Skoda NZ in line for electrification

Skoda New Zealand has been busy making its case to head office for electrified models – and may have them here sooner and cheaper than you may expect.

During a vehicle launch yesterday, Skoda general manager Greg Leet told EVtalk plug-in hybrid versions of the Kodiaq SUV and Superb sedan and wagon could make their way here as soon as late this year.

By 2021 a BEV SUV, similar in size to the current Kodiaq with seven seats, and a ‘halo’ model electric coupe will join the range – potentially sooner for the SUV.

The BEVs will use an 82kWh battery and be all-wheel drive via separate front and rear engine. Skoda is predicting a range of 500km, with DC charging capability of at least 100kW.

As part of the Volkswagen Group, Skoda can leverage off its parent’ developments for its I.D. series of electric cars.

Interestingly, Leet does not expect the plug-in options to carry a significant premium over petrol and diesel models.

“When electrification becomes part of Skoda, it will be an alternative drivetrain – there won’t be a massive markup over petrol or diesel.”

Leet expects the battery SUV to sit in price under the range-topping RS, which costs $71,990. The coupe is likely to be the most expensive Skoda and sit in the $80k range.

The biggest hurdle to the vehicles landing in New Zealand is supply. Leet notes most EV production is kept in Europe where manufacturers are desperately working to avoid multi-million dollar fines for failing to reduce their average fuel economy.

Skoda has shown several electrified concepts, including the VisionS and VisioniV.