Skoda is inviting the global automotive community to observe its electric future as it unveils official design sketches for its upcoming flagship model, the Peaq. This innovative seven-seater family vehicle is set for its official global debut on June 23 during a media event in France. Currently, these design sketches offer the most detailed preview of the model ahead of its production.
The name "Peaq" marks a departure from Skoda's recent naming conventions for electric vehicles, which consistently began with the letter "E" — as seen in the Enyaq, Elroq, and compact Epiq models. This shift comes as the automaker aims to refresh its branding strategy to better appeal to consumers worldwide.
The design sketches showcase a significant evolution of Skoda's trademark aesthetic, identified by designers as "Modern Solid." This design philosophy emphasizes flat surfaces, minimalist character lines, and a robust overall shape. While the final design closely resembles the profile of the 2022 Vision 7S concept car, it abandons some of the concept's more impractical features, such as rear-hinged coach doors.
The front features a tall clamshell hood and sleek LED headlights that form a distinctive T-shaped light signature. These headlights accentuate a glossy black front panel, referred to as the Tech-Deck Face. At the rear, matching slim taillights extend into the tailgate, echoing the design language of the front. A unique twin-fin roof spoiler sits above the rear window, aiding in airflow management. The short hood and minimal body overhangs give the vehicle functional proportions reminiscent of a passenger van.
The Peaq distinguishes itself with generous dimensions, stretching approximately 4.9 m in length, making it the largest passenger vehicle in Skoda's portfolio. This size surpasses that of its main European competitor, the Peugeot E-5008, yet it remains slightly smaller than larger models like the Kia 9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9.
From a technical standpoint, the Peaq is built on an updated version of the Volkswagen Group MEB platform, which has previously been exclusive to passenger vehicles sold in China. This marks the introduction of the upgraded platform variation to the European market.
When the Peaq officially hits the market later this year, buyers will have two distinct battery and motor configurations. The entry-level model, named the 60, features a 63 kWh battery paired with a rear-mounted 201-horsepower electric motor, boasting a driving range of approximately 430 km on a full charge. Meanwhile, the high-end 90 version is equipped with a larger 91 kWh battery pack, and customers can choose between either a standard single-motor rear-wheel-drive setup or a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, the latter offering a robust 295 horsepower and an impressive driving range of around 610 km.
The charging speeds vary between the two battery choices; the 91 kWh variant supports rapid charging rates up to 195 kW, whereas the 63 kWh battery peaks at 160 kW. Despite the capacity differences, both versions take a similar amount of time to recharge, with Skoda estimating that achieving a charge from 10 to 80 percent will take about 27 minutes for the smaller pack and 28 minutes for the larger one.
Despite the Peaq's extensive dimensions, Skoda is committed to maintaining its reputation for value. The entry price is set significantly lower than major competitors in the seven-seater market, starting around €77,400. This pricing strategy positions it closer to the more affordable Peugeot E-5008, with prices starting just below €47,000, rather than high-end options like the Hyundai Ioniq 9, which begins at approximately €76,200.
However, the commitment to affordability does not compromise the quality of the interior. Skoda's interior design team has focused on creating a premium feel for the dashboard and seating areas using durable yet cost-effective and recyclable materials instead of traditional luxury elements. The final cabin design will offer both five-seat and seven-seat versions, complete with a range of practical features for everyday use.
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