Ford's Explorer EV has many cousins, some of which are still in the making, like the Skoda Elroq. But what exactly is this model? An upcoming electric crossover that will sit below the Enyaq in the Czech automaker's lineup.
We've known about it for around one year when Skoda first spoke about it. Back then, it said it will measure some 177 inches (4.5 meters) from bumper to bumper, which is about as much as the platform-sharing Ford Explorer EV. The manufacturer said it will have "a spacious and very practical interior," and went as far as stating it is the "ideal family car."
Since we mentioned the underpinnings, we might as well tell you that it is expected to sit on the VW Group's MEB platform. If that's the case, then it will be mechanically related to the larger Enyaq, as well as the Cupra Tavascan, Born, Audi's Q4 and Q5 e-tron, the aforementioned Ford Explorer EV, and a whole bunch of Volkswagen's, from the ID.3 to the ID.7 and ID. Buzz.
The platform will give the Skoda Elroq access to numerous battery packs and electric powertrains. We expect the lesser models to launch with single-motor setups. Moreover, since the Czech auto marque already sells dual-motor EVs, it is possible that this model might also get a bi-motor setup at one point, probably long after the official unveiling.
Photo: Baldauf
But what about the looks? As you can see in these new spy shots that show the zero-emission model at the Nurburgring, it has a dual headlamp design, a large intake in the middle of the bumper, and a closed-off grille, as there is no internal combustion unit behind it to feed air to. It also features regular door handles, a wing attached to the top end of the tailgate, a clean rear bumper, and LED taillights.
The interior is still not fully visible. However, zooming in on certain images shows a large infotainment screen with a tablet-like positioning on the dashboard. It likely sits next to a digital instrument cluster, and we wouldn't be surprised if Skoda went for some of the Enyaq's buttons and knobs to save a few bucks. Range-topping versions will probably get a sunroof, ambient lighting, a wireless charging pad, more USB ports, and additional safety gizmos.
Reports speak of Skoda unveiling the Elroq later this year, perhaps during fall. If that's the case, then deliveries might kick off before the end of 2024. Thus, it shouldn't be too long until the pre-production testers drop some camouflage and allow us to see the design better, with some of the traits that were inspired by other vehicles in Skoda's portfolio. So, do you wish the Czech auto brand brought this model to North America?
After a series of unfortunate events put an end to Cristian's dream of entering a custom built & tuned old-school Dacia into a rally competition, he moved on to drive press cars and write for a living. He's worked for several automotive online journals and now he's back at autoevolution after his first tour in the mid-2000s. Full profile
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