The Skoda Epiq, a compact electric SUV concept, recently made its global debut, signaling Skoda's first steps into electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing. One out of the total foreseeable six EV designs from the automaker, the Epiq serves as a prototype for Skoda's future EV product lines. Although still under development, the Epiq presents a unique glimpse into Skoda’s vision for its future EVs. This article highlights five key aspects of this relatively novel and appealing EV concept.
The Skoda Epiq measures 4.1 meters in length and incorporates the automaker's novel ‘Modern Solid’ design concept, expected in forthcoming Skoda models. These designs fuse clean lines with sturdy shapes. A stand-up front profile that includes Skoda’s emblematic grille design accommodates connected LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) along the hood's edge. Instead of the conventional Skoda emblem, its name is written and lit up. A large, eye-catching bumper and skid plate with eight vertical slats are the key highlights of the architecture. The same bumper design extends to the back, where sleek "T-shaped" lighting elements and an illuminated Skoda emblem are featured. Additionally, protruding wheel arches, door cladding, and roof rails further enhance its profile design. Nonetheless, the alloy wheels design, which appears closed-off from the edges, stands out as the most striking feature.
The minimalist theme is clearly recognizable in the Epiq’s interior, a trend that is being adopted more and more in vehicle production. With a reduction in design elements, the interior is straightforward yet stylish. It houses a monochrome dual-tone cabin, a flat Dashboard, and a novel two-spoke steering wheel, complete with a bottom-rising feature. The centre console, furnished with ambient lighting, sports a U-shaped design element, complemented by sporty bucket seats.
One of the key aspects to note is the technology embedded in the Skoda Epiq. While the full feature list is yet to be revealed, the interior shows it comes equipped with a 13-inch free-floating touchscreen infotainment system. It is likely that the system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Similarly, a 5.3-inch digital driver’s display, automatic climate control, a wireless phone charger, and a panoramic glass roof further enhance its modern features.
Skoda has yet to share precise details about the Epiq’s battery pack and motor specifications. However, they did reveal the EV’s expected range, sitting impressively at over 400 kilometres (km). Further information on battery capacity and motor performance is anticipated soon. The inclusion of Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capabilities that support the charging and powering of other electrical systems is especially appealing.
Skoda has adopted a specific convention for naming its SUVs – starting with 'K' and ending with 'Q'. This is evident in models such as the Kushaq, Kodiaq and Karoq. For its range of electric SUVs, name will commence with an 'E' and end with 'Q', following the example of the Enyaq. The Epiq’s name, derived from the term 'epic', adheres to this trend.
The Skoda Epiq is set to be released globally in 2025, with an estimated initial price of 25,000 Euros (approximately Rs 22.6 lakh). If released in India, the model’s price might resemble the international integers due to a high degree of local production. Likely competitors of the Epiq include the Tata Curvv EV and Hyundai Creta-based EV. Skoda’s primary all-electric vehicle in India will be the Enyaq, while the Skoda Elroq is expected to reach international markets next.
March 2025 Sales Performance
Design and Features
The Honda E-VO blends neo-retro café racer aesthetics with modern elements. It features a round headlamp encased in a classic cowl, circular bar-end mirrors, a pulled-back handlebar, and a single-piece tan seat. The bike's sleek side panels house the battery pack and electric drivetrain, contributing to its futuristic appearance. Minimalistic graphics and a dual-tone color scheme with subtle yellow stripes enhance its distinctive look.
Performance Specifications
The E-VO is equipped with an 8 kW (11 HP) electric motor, positioning it alongside 150cc petrol-powered motorcycles in terms of performance. Two variants are anticipated:
Base Variant: Weighs 143 kg with a top speed of 110 km/h.
Top Variant: Weighs 157 kg and achieves a top speed of 120 km/h.
These specifications suggest that the E-VO will serve as an agile and efficient option for urban commuting.
Battery and Charging
While specific battery details remain undisclosed, it is likely that the E-VO will utilize Honda's Mobile Power Pack e:, a swappable battery system. Honda has been developing battery-swapping infrastructure in various markets, including India, Japan, Thailand, and Indonesia, to support this technology.
Market Outlook
Honda's expansion into the electric two-wheeler segment reflects its commitment to sustainable mobility solutions. The E-VO, with its unique design and practical features, is poised to attract riders seeking an eco-friendly and stylish commuting option. The exact launch date and pricing details are yet to be announced.
Sales Breakdown for March 2025:
BYD has recently unveiled teaser images of its upcoming e7 sedan, suggesting it may serve as a more affordable counterpart to the existing Seal sedan. The e7 adopts BYD's Ocean design language but incorporates cost-effective features aimed at enhancing accessibility for a broader range of consumers
Design and Features
The e7's design closely mirrors that of the Seal sedan, featuring traditional door handles in place of the Seal's flush-mounted ones, and offering optional steel wheels instead of the Seal's standard 19-inch dual-tone alloys. Additionally, buyers can choose between configurations with or without a sunroof, and select optional features such as a rear camera and an interior rearview mirror (IRVM), indicating a focus on affordability.
Dimensions and Performance
According to regulatory filings with China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), the e7 measures 4,780 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, and 1,515 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,820 mm. This positions it closely to the Seal sedan's dimensions. The e7 is equipped with a single front-mounted electric motor producing 100 kW (136 PS), enabling a top speed of 150 km/h. Battery options include a 48-kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) pack offering a range of 450 km, and a 57.6-kWh pack extending the range to 520 km, based on CLTC standards.
Market Positioning
The e7's streamlined features and modest performance specifications suggest that BYD aims to position this model as an economical electric vehicle, potentially targeting taxi operators and ride-hailing services. This strategy aligns with BYD's previous offerings, such as the e2 hatchback and its sedan counterpart, the e3, both of which were tailored for similar markets before their discontinuation in China.
As BYD continues to expand its electric vehicle lineup, the e7 sedan appears poised to offer a cost-effective solution for consumers seeking sustainable transportation options. Whether this model will be introduced to markets outside of China, including India, remains to be seen.
Hyundai Motor Company has unveiled the second-generation Nexo, a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), at the Seoul Mobility Show 2025. This new model showcases Hyundai's commitment to advancing hydrogen mobility and sustainable transportation.
Design and Features
The all-new Nexo adopts Hyundai's 'Art of Steel' design philosophy, emphasizing strength and versatility. Its exterior is characterized by distinctive 'HTWO' lamps and a bold, refined aesthetic. Inside, the Nexo offers a spacious cabin equipped with advanced comfort features, including first-row Relaxation Seats and increased luggage capacity.
Performance and Efficiency
The Nexo's powertrain has been significantly improved, featuring a fuel cell stack with a maximum gross power of 110 kW—a 16% increase from its predecessor. The electric motor now delivers up to 150 kW, enhancing overall performance. Hyundai targets a driving range exceeding 700 km on a single five-minute charge, addressing both efficiency and convenience for drivers.
Safety and Technology
Safety remains a priority, with the Nexo designed to achieve top-tier safety ratings. It incorporates advanced driver-assistance systems and collision safety features to ensure comprehensive protection for occupants. Additionally, the Nexo is the first FCEV to offer towing capabilities, enhancing its versatility.
Hyundai's introduction of the new Nexo underscores its leadership in the hydrogen vehicle market and its dedication to providing diverse, eco-friendly mobility solutions.
Distinctive Exterior and Interior Features
The Tata Curvv Dark Edition showcases a glossy black exterior finish, complemented by 'Dark' badging on the front fenders, enhancing its bold and sophisticated appearance. Notably, this edition includes rear window blinds—a feature unique to the Dark Edition and not available in other Curvv variants.
Inside, the vehicle continues the dark theme with an all-black interior accented by glossy black inserts. Based on the top-spec trim, the Curvv Dark Edition is equipped with premium features such as ventilated leatherette seats, a 6-way power-adjustable driver seat, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a voice-assisted panoramic sunroof with mood lighting. Additional amenities include a premium JBL sound system with nine speakers, wireless smartphone charging, an air purifier, gesture-controlled powered tailgate, Alexa voice commands, and an electrochromic auto-dimming IRVM.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is a priority in the Curvv Dark Edition, which comes equipped with 20 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features. These include forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, blind spot detection, a 360° surround view camera, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition, and adaptive steering assist, enhancing both safety and driving convenience.
Powertrain Options
Under the hood, the Curvv Dark Edition offers two engine choices:
Hyundai launches a wireless adapter for the Alcazar SUV, enabling seamless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay without a physical connection.
Hyundai has introduced a new wired-to-wireless adapter for the Alcazar SUV, enabling wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. This adapter connects to the vehicle's USB Type-A port, eliminating the need for a physical connection between the smartphone and the infotainment system
Previously, Alcazar owners relied on a wired connection for these features. The new adapter enhances convenience by allowing seamless integration of smartphone interfaces onto the car's 10.2-inch infotainment screen without cables.
The adapter is available for the Prestige, Platinum, and Signature trims of the Alcazar. Pricing for models equipped with this feature starts at ₹17.22 lakh (ex-showroom) and goes up to ₹21.59 lakh (ex-showroom). It remains unclear whether existing Alcazar owners can obtain this adapter separately.
Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer of Hyundai Motor India Limited, stated, "The introduction of our 'Wired to Wireless Adapter' is a significant step in meeting the expectations of today's tech-savvy customers, who expect seamless connectivity throughout their journeys."
This development underscores Hyundai's commitment to enhancing in-car technology and improving the user experience for its customers.
In March 2025, Tata Motors reported domestic passenger vehicle (PV) sales of 51,616 units, marking a 3% year-on-year increase from 50,110 units in March 2024. This performance also represents an 11.16% month-on-month growth compared to 46,437 units sold in February 2025.
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