Skoda Concept Envisions Autonomous EV

Volkswagen AG’s Skoda unit says its new Vision E concept electric vehicle has an estimated driving range of 500 km (311 miles) and can operate autonomously under a variety of conditions.

Skoda will publicly unveil the concept at next month’s Shanghai auto show. The crossover previews the brand’s first EV, which is due in 2020 and will be followed by at least four other Skoda EVs through 2025.

Built on VW’s new MEB modular EV platform, the Vision E has a 112-inch wheelbase and stretches 183 inches from bumper to bumper. The sporty coupe-like styling has short overhangs in the front and rear and maximized interior space.

The powertrain architecture features two electric motors that generate a combined 225 kW and propel the vehicle to a top speed of 112 mph. The next-generation lithium-ion battery is packaged in the floorpan.

Skoda says the concept can steer, brake and park autonomously in certain conditions.

The interior features a sweeping dashboard with a 12-inch central touchscreen. The driver sits about 25% higher and has 7% more knee room than in Skoda’s Octavia sedan.