Skoda is a brand that has transformed itself from the laughing stock of the car world to a highly competitive force with viable ambitions of going upmarket in a relatively short space of time.
The Czech car maker can thank brilliant products like the Golf-based Octavia and Kodiaq SUV for turning around its fortunes.
In 2017, it enjoyed its largest operating profits (34.6 per cent) and 2018 looks like it could be another record year with January and February’s sales up by 12.4 per cent on the opening two months of 2017.
Skoda will now look to maintain growth by venturing into the world of electric vehicles and aims to introduce ten electrified models to its range by 2025.
Skoda Vision E – Concept
One model set to play a key role in this electrification is the production version of the long-touted Vision E concept, an all-electric coupe-SUV based on the Volkswagen Group MEB platform.
Skoda Vision X – Concept
Another concept was teased at the Geneva Motor Show at the start of March too – the Vision X.
This isn’t pure electric though. Instead, it makes use of an innovative hybrid drive concept that couples a four-cylinder turbo engine, fueled by CNG (compressed natural gas), with electric motors. This means it should achieve particularly low fuel consumption and emissions of around 93g/km.
Design-wise, this modern crossover features crystalline accents inspired by traditional Bohemian glass art, while inside, there’s a large touchscreen display and a new operating concept in terms of infotainment and connectivity.
It’s no slowpoke either, with a 128bhp power output of the two drive units pushing the Vision X from zero to 62mph in 9.3 seconds with a top speed of 124mph.
We’ll also get a pure electric version of Skoda’s city car – the e-Citigo – to compeiment VW’s e-up! with production starting in 2019, as well as a Superb plug-in hybrid.
Away from hybrids and electric vehicles, Skoda will introduce 19 new models and derivatives between now and 2020, including the much-anticipated Kodiaq vRS.
Which new Skoda are you most looking forward to? Let us know down in the comments.
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