Skoda Unveils Entry-Level All-Electric City SUV Epiq
- By MT Bureau
- May 19, 2026
Czech automaker Skoda Auto has introduced the Skoda Epiq, its first entry-level city SUV crossover, which it claims achieves price parity with its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart, the Kamiq, in several European markets.
Built on the Volkswagen Group’s new MEB+ modular electric platform, the front-wheel-drive Epiq doubles Skoda's battery electric vehicle (BEV) lineup alongside the Enyaq, Elroq and upcoming Peaq.
The platform features two battery chemistries and three power outputs tailored for urban efficiency –
- Epiq 35 & 40: Features a 38.5 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery pack, producing 267 Nm of torque and a 310 km range. The entry-level Epiq 35 delivers 85 kW, while the Epiq 40 outputs 99 kW.
- Epiq 55: The range-topping variant utilises a 55 kWh Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) battery pack, generating 155 kW of power and 290 Nm of torque for a 440 km range.
The Epiq 55 supports fast DC charging, replenishing the battery from 10 percent to 80 percent in 24 minutes. It also features bidirectional charging capabilities (V2L, V2H and V2G) and introduces full one-pedal driving in B mode. Mechanical disc brakes are fitted on both axles to limit rotor oxidation, as the front wheels handle all regenerative braking.
Measuring 4,171 mm long with a 2,601 mm wheelbase, the Epiq is the first production model to fully adopt Skoda’s ‘Modern Solid’ design language. The traditional front grille is replaced by a glossy black Tech-Deck Face concealing integrated sensors, framed by a new T-shaped LED light signature.
The crossover achieves a drag coefficient of 0.275. This aerodynamic profile is enabled by active cooling shutters, front-wheel Air Curtains, a fully enclosed smooth underbody pan and an extended roof spoiler.
Despite its compact exterior, the vehicle offers substantial storage, prioritising a 475-litre rear boot. This is supplemented by a 25-litre front luggage compartment (frunk) and 28 litres of cabin storage.
The cabin is completely animal-free, replacing leather with a durable synthetic material called Techtona. All textile seat fabrics are woven from 100 percent recycled polyester fibers (PES).
The digital core is powered by an Android-based infotainment system utilizing a 13-inch central display with third-party app hosting and a mobile digital key platform.
Safety hardware includes seven standard airbags (including a front-centre airbag) and advanced driver assistance features:
It gets Front Assist, Lane Assist, Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert and an eye-tracking mirror camera for driver fatigue as standard. Customers will also have a choice for an Optional Crossroad Assist feature using front-corner radars, and Travel Assist 3.0 with proactive stop-light recognition, Trained Parking and Remote Park Assist.
Shortly after the initial market rollout, a limited Epiq First Edition will launch exclusively with the high-output 155 kW Epiq 55 powertrain. It is distinguished by a two-tone paint finish with a black roof, exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels, and Navajo Orange accents on the mirrors, bumpers, and side trim. The interior is upgraded with matching orange stitching, contrast safety belts, and aluminium sports pedals.
Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Skoda Auto, said, “The Epiq is our most approachable step into electric mobility – compact, confident, unmistakably Skoda, and designed to deliver exceptional value for money. It sets a clear benchmark for what an entry-level electric model should be: clean, purposeful design, intuitive user experience, and genuine everyday value. As our first series-production model to fully adopt the Modern Solid design language, the Epiq brings technologies from higher vehicle segments into an accessible package."
Martin Jahn, Skoda Auto Board Member for Sales and Marketing, added, “With the Epiq, we are addressing customers who are looking for a straightforward and attractive entry into electric mobility. The model combines compact dimensions with a surprisingly spacious interior, including a 475-litre luggage compartment, and a design focused on functionality. It delivers the quality and Simply Clever solutions our customers expect from Skoda, along with new features such as bidirectional charging."
Keeway Hypevolt-R E-Scooter With 180km Range Launched At INR 199,000
- By MT Bureau
- July 03, 2026
Keeway India has launched the Hypevolt-R, an electric scooter priced at INR 199,000 (ex-showroom) with bookings starting at INR 5,000.
The Hypevolt-R features a 5 kWh dual-battery architecture with a claimed range of 180 km and an in-vehicle charging system that reaches 80 percent charge in approximately 3 hours. It utilises a mid-mounted motor producing 12 kW of power, enabling acceleration from zero to 40 kmph in 2.3 seconds and a top speed of 115 kmph.
Vikas Jhabakh, Managing Director, Keeway India, said, “The Hypevolt-R represents a significant milestone in Keeway's journey in India. Today's electric mobility customer is no longer looking only for efficiency; they seek performance, technology, design and everyday practicality in one complete package. With the Hypevolt-R, we have created a premium electric scooter that delivers thrilling acceleration, intelligent rider technologies and exceptional usability without compromise. We believe it will redefine expectations from performance electric scooters in India.”
The Hypevolt-R comes with Traction Control, Dual-Channel ABS, Blind Spot Detection, a Rear Reverse Camera and Hill Hold and Hill Descent Control. It features 14-inch alloy wheels, 130 mm of ground clearance, a 770 mm seat height and 27 litres of under-seat storage.
The e-scooter is equipped with a 5-inch TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity and USB charging ports. The Hypevolt-R can be had in Crystal White and Platinum Grey colour options.
The company says the e-scooter is designed for urban commuting and weekend use, offering three riding modes: Eco, Normal and Sport.
Hyundai Motor India Introduces BaaS Model For Creta Electric At INR 1.09 Million
- By MT Bureau
- July 02, 2026
Hyundai Motor India (HMIL), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has launched a Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) ownership model for the Creta Electric. Under the BaaS model, the Creta Electric is available at a starting price of INR 1.09 million (ex-showroom), with battery repayments starting from INR 3.9 per kilometre.
Alongside the BaaS model, the company has updated the Creta Electric with an integrated side foot step. Additionally, Home Charger (HC) variants now include a 7.4 kW wall box charger to assist with home charging requirements.
The Creta Electric SUV is available with two battery options: 51.4 kWh and 42 kWh. It offers a range of up to 510 km (ARAI certified) and supports DC fast charging, allowing a 10–80 percent charge in 39 minutes. Other features include Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, SmartSense Level 2 ADAS, i-Pedal for single-pedal driving, a digital key, and active air flaps. The battery is covered by a warranty of 8 years or 160,000 km.
Tarun Garg, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India, said, “At HMIL, we believe the future of mobility must be accessible, intelligent and customer centric. The introduction of Battery-as-a-Service for the Hyundai Creta Electric is a transformational step towards democratising electric mobility in India. By significantly reducing the initial acquisition cost and offering flexible battery rental plans, we are enabling more customers to confidently transition to EVs while enjoying Hyundai’s trusted technology, safety and innovation.”
Ather Energy Launches 450X Overtones Series And Upgrades
- By MT Bureau
- July 01, 2026
Bengaluru-headquartered electric vehicle company Ather Energy has introduced the 450X Overtones Series, featuring a tone-on-tone treatment across three colourways: Still White, Space Grey and Lunar Grey.
Over the years, the company’s e-scooter lineup has received multiple hardware and software updates, including features such as AutoHold, Magic Twist and Multi Mode Traction Control. Ather has also implemented Infinite Cruise, which facilitates speed management across varied terrains.
Ather Energy’s recent rollout of Atherstack 7 includes new safety features such as CrashAlert that detects accidents and notifies emergency contacts. ParkSafe for providing warnings regarding parking zones and LockSafe, which enables motor immobilisation via the app.
Additionally, the company is introducing a 900W charger, which decreases 450 charging times by 30 percent.
Bengaluru-based electric vehicle maker Ola Electric has announced that it registered 16,144 electric two-wheelers in June 2026, as compared to 20,697 units for the same period last year.
For Q1 FY2027, the retail sales came to 43,719 units, as compared to 22,252 units sold in Q4 FY2026.
“Q1 FY27 marks a significant milestone in our growth journey, with registrations doubling sequentially and June registering 16,144 vehicles - our strongest monthly performance in recent quarters. The sustained momentum reflects the success of our operational improvements, strong product portfolio and continued customer preference for Ola Electric. We remain focused on accelerating EV adoption through technology leadership, manufacturing scale and delivering a differentiated ownership experience," the company said in a statement.
Ola Electric attributes its performance to improvements in retail execution and product availability.
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