The ŠKODA VISION E all-electric concept was first unveiled in April at the Auto Shanghai in China and now the zero-emissions concept SUV its European premiere at the next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show.
The design has been developed once more compared to the first version (pictured below). The most eye-catching design features are the absence of a B-pillar and the opposed-opening doors.
The design of the VISION E study displays distinctive characteristics of the new ŠKODA design language for electric vehicles. The opposed-opening doors and four individual swivel seats are striking features. Wing mirrors are a thing of the past – cameras relay what is happening around the car onto screens. The VISION E deliberately forgoes the B-pillar in favour of an even more generous feeling of space. Compared to the vehicle from the world premiere in Shanghai, the front has been developed further and now has even more character.
With the VISION E, ŠKODA is taking a big step into the digital future. The first electrically driven concept vehicle for autonomous driving in the company’s history shows a new level of connectivity. In addition to the dashboard screen and the central touchscreen display, which allows the driver and front passenger to read and operate all ŠKODA Connect functions and services, every occupant has their own display at their disposal. Using touchscreens, numerous convenience details such as vehicle data and entertainment can be operated. A Phonebox that charges smartphones inductively is integrated into each door. At the same time, the box serves as an interface that allows passengers to access their mobile devices’ personal settings, data and information conveniently on the individual touchscreen displays.
Many further features signal that the future is already here. The infotainment systems can be operated using voice and gesture controls, for example. Cameras monitor the driver all the time and check on their fitness and alertness using Eye Tracking. The Driver Alert system warns the driver of tiredness. The VISION E even comes with a digital doctor: the heart rate monitor slows the vehicle down automatically, should the driver experience any health problems. Just like in many ŠKODA production models, the VISION E occupants are of course ‘always online’ thanks to a Wi-Fi hotspot and LTE module.
With a length of 4,668 mm, a width of 1,924 mm and a height of 1,591 mm the VISION E exudes great presence. Due to the long wheelbase of 2,851 mm and the short front and rear overhangs the technicians were able to create – as is standard with a ŠKODA – an extremely generous and comfortable interior. Due to the concept, there is no transmission tunnel which creates a ŠKODA-typical generous amount of space in the front and the rear.
Electric motors with a total power output of 225 kW (306 PS) drive all four wheels of the concept car. The range of up to 500 km (310 miles) and the top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph) are impressive.
The VISION E allows for autonomous driving at level 3. On motorways, the autopilot system enables the concept car to autonomously accelerate, steer, brake and even avoid obstacles. The Car Park Autopilot finds free parking spaces and directs the vehicle there automatically. The VISION E is charged inductively.
