Škoda Epiq 40 launches as an affordable electric SUV
Škoda is expanding the Epiq range with an important entry-level version. The new Epiq 40 is available to order in Germany from €27,900 and combines a compact LFP battery with 99 kW of power and up to 310 km of range.
This positions the electric city SUV in a price bracket likely to appeal to many private buyers. It will become even more affordable in October 2026, when the announced Epiq 35 goes on sale from €25,900.
With 310 km of range and a 23-minute charging time, the Epiq 40 strikes a practical balance between price, battery size and everyday usability.
Powertrain, battery and charging performance
| Specification | Škoda Epiq 40 |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 38.5 kWh gross, 37 kWh usable |
| Battery chemistry | Lithium iron phosphate, LFP |
| Motor output | 99 kW |
| Torque | 267 Nm |
| Top speed | 160 km/h |
| Range | up to 310 km |
| Charging time from 10% to 80% | 23 minutes |
LFP cell chemistry is well suited to a price-focused electric car. It is considered robust and generally enables lower battery costs, although it has a lower energy density than many nickel-rich cell chemistries. For a compact vehicle used mainly in urban traffic and for commuting, this is a sensible approach.
Charging adds around 26 kWh of usable energy within 23 minutes. This works out to an average charging power of approximately 68 kW across the relevant charging window. Škoda does not specify the maximum peak power in the available information, but the 10% to 80% time is more meaningful for everyday use in any case.
The stated 310 km is a manufacturer figure. Motorway speeds, low temperatures and use of the cabin heating can reduce real-world range. Nevertheless, the battery should provide sufficient reserves for daily journeys and regional trips.
Essence and Selection compared
Two trim levels are available at the start of ordering. Even the Epiq Essence 40 comes with important driver-assistance and comfort features as standard, while the Selection 40 adds equipment primarily for parking, charging and winter comfort.
| Equipment | Essence 40 | Selection 40 |
|---|---|---|
| Price in Germany | from €27,900 | from €31,400 |
| Infotainment | 13-inch display, Bluetooth, Care Connect | plus Phonebox with wireless charging |
| Driver assistance | front radar, lane-keeping assist, lane-change and rear cross-traffic assist, intersection assist | plus front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera |
| Comfort | Climatronic | heated front seats, heated steering wheel, dual-zone Climatronic and KESSY keyless entry and start |
| Other features | LED headlights | bidirectional charging, tinted rear windows and 18-inch alloy wheels |
It remains unclear which specific applications and standards the bidirectional charging system will support. The key question is whether Škoda will only allow it to power external devices or also enable functions for homes and the electricity grid. These details will determine its actual value in everyday use.
Premium Package and new options
A Premium Package is also available for the Epiq Selection 40, Selection 55 and First Edition for €890. Its scope is impressive given the price:
- 25-liter frunk beneath the hood
- 360-degree camera with a transparent 3D view
- Canton sound system with ten speakers
- Intelligent parking assistant with remote-controlled and trained parking
A heat pump can now be ordered for all variants. Electrically adjustable front seats are also available for the Selection versions. Particularly for drivers who frequently travel in winter, the heat pump can help reduce the energy required to heat the cabin.
Epiq 35 and Epiq 55 complete the range
Below the Epiq 40, the Epiq 35 will follow in October, priced from €25,900. Škoda is therefore implementing its previously announced pricing strategy for the affordable Škoda Epiq almost exactly as planned. Full technical details for the smallest version are not yet available with this announcement.
At the other end of the range is the Epiq 55 with 155 kW. It is available in Essence, Selection and First Edition versions and is aimed at buyers seeking more power and additional equipment. By contrast, the Epiq 40 is likely to represent the best-balanced option in the range for many customers.
At the same time, the market for affordable electric cars is becoming more crowded. The new entry-level models from VW, Škoda and Cupra are already attracting strong interest. The Epiq is therefore entering a growing segment in which not only the purchase price but also charging time, equipment and usable range are decisive.
Assessment for Germany, Austria and Switzerland
At €27,900, the Epiq 40 is considerably more than a stripped-back base model. LED lighting, 13-inch infotainment, climate control and several assistance systems are already included in the Essence. The €3,500 premium for the Selection is particularly worthwhile for drivers who specifically want heated seats, a camera, parking sensors and bidirectional charging.
The stated prices apply to Germany. Pricing, equipment packages and ordering dates may differ in Austria and Switzerland. Regardless, the Epiq 40 demonstrates how quickly the range of EVs priced below €30,000 is improving.
