Skoda sheds light on its Vision E Concept

Skoda’s Vision E Concept has finally broken cover with the company revealing details and sketches of a 225kW all-electric, five-door fastback crossover ahead of its official launch at next month’s Shanghai Motor Show.

The Tesla Model X-rivalling high-riding coupe has a top speed of 180km/h and 500km range with powerful lithium-ion batteries sending juice to two electric motors.

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Built on the Volkswagen Group’s modular electric car (MEB) platform, the Vision E is 4645mm x 1917mm making it shorter but wider than Skoda Kodiaq with a 2850mm wheelbase and short front and rear overhangs that should result in decent interior space.

The Vision E is also a showcase of the Czech carmaker’s latest self-driving driving technology which achieves Level 3 autonomy. It can operate independently in traffic jams, go into autopilot on motorways, stay in lane and swerve, carry out overtaking manoeuvres, independently search for free parking spaces and park.

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A production is expected to go on sale in 2020, the first of five purely electric models in various segments by 2025. The company will also release hybrid models including a dual-powered version of the Superb in 2019.

As well as being a springboard for Skoda to launch itself into EV production, the Vision E is also a preview of its evolving design language.

Inspired by traditional Czech crystal glass art, the Vision E’s styling will be dominated by crisp lines, “bold contours” and intricate, jewel-like detailing in the headlamps and tail lamps.