Skoda is urging the automotive world to take notice of its electric future, even as the physical vehicle remains unseen. The Czech automaker has released official exterior design sketches of its upcoming flagship model, the Peaq, a large family-oriented seven-seater. The model will make its global debut on June 23 at a dedicated media event in France. These design sketches offer the clearest preview of the vehicle prior to the commencement of production.
The name Peaq marks a departure from Skoda's recent convention of naming electric vehicles with an initial 'E,' which included models such as the Enyaq, Elroq, and Epiq. This shift reflects the automaker's desire to avoid predictability in naming its eco-friendly lineup.
The design sketches showcase an evolution of the brand's signature aesthetic, referred to by the designers as "Modern Solid." This design philosophy emphasizes flat body surfaces, minimalist character lines, and a sculpted shape. While the model closely resembles the profile of the 2022 Vision 7S concept car, it discards some less practical features, such as the rear-hinged coach doors.
The front of the vehicle features a prominent clamshell hood and sleek LED headlights that create a distinctive T-shaped light signature. The slim headlamps frame a glossy black panel known as the Tech-Deck Face. At the rear, matching thin taillights extend deeply into the tailgate, echoing the design language from the front. A unique twin-fin roof spoiler is positioned high above the rear window to enhance aerodynamics. The well-defined hood line and compact overhangs yield highly functional, square proportions reminiscent of a passenger van.
The new family vehicle is generously sized, with a length of approximately 4.9 m, making it the largest passenger vehicle in Skoda’s lineup. Its dimensions surpass those of its main European competitor, the Peugeot E-5008, though it occupies a smaller footprint than larger models like the Kia 9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9.
Underneath its striking exterior, the Peaq is built on an updated version of the Volkswagen Group MEB platform. Notably, this mechanical configuration was previously exclusive to passenger vehicles sold in China, but this seven-seater will officially bring the upgraded platform to European customers.
When it launches later this year, the Peaq will offer two distinct battery and motor configurations. The entry-level model, designated the 60, features a 63 kWh battery with a rear-mounted 201-horsepower electric motor, providing a driving range of approximately 430 km on a full charge.
The premium version, labeled the 90, comes equipped with a larger 91 kWh battery and can be configured with either a single-motor rear-wheel-drive setup or a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. The dual-motor version outputs an impressive 295 horsepower, offering a driving range of about 610 km before requiring a recharge.
Charging speeds vary by battery choice; the 91 kWh pack supports fast charging up to 195 kW, while the 63 kWh pack tops out at 160 kW. Both configurations require similar time to recharge: Skoda claims that charging from 10 to 80 percent will take about 27 minutes for the smaller pack, and 28 minutes for the larger one.
Despite its large dimensions, Skoda aims to uphold its reputation for value. The company plans to set the entry price significantly below large premium competitors in the seven-seat segment, starting at around €77,400. This pricing positions it competitively against the Hyundai Ioniq 9, which retails for approximately €76,200 in the UK, and likely closer to the more affordable Peugeot E-5008, which has a starting price under €47,000.
However, this competitive pricing will not compromise the quality of the cabin. Interior designers claim to have worked diligently to enhance the premium feel of the dashboard and seating areas. Instead of traditional luxury materials, they opted for affordable, durable, and recyclable components. The production model will offer both five-seat and seven-seat configurations, along with a wide array of practical features for everyday use.
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