Škoda has announced that its new flagship model, the Škoda Peaq electric SUV, will debut June 23.
Based on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB+ platform, the EV underwent more than 1,500,000km of prototype testing across three continents and a range of climates and conditions, supported by virtual development methods.
Johannes Neft, Škoda Auto board member for technical development, said, “The Škoda Peaq is the result of an extensive development and testing process, during which our engineers verified the functionality and durability of all key components and design elements.
“We tested the Peaq extensively both in laboratories – including climate chambers and wind tunnels – and in real-world conditions, from the heat of the desert to freezing environments 200km north of the Arctic Circle, where temperatures can drop to -40°C/°F. The aim was to verify that all components function correctly and reliably even in these extreme situations.”
The test prototypes were closely monitored by both the development and quality departments. The prototypes were tested in Africa and North America as well as Europe.
In frost and heat
During development, Škoda specialists focused on situations that Peaq customers might encounter. In conditions well within the Arctic Circle, at temperatures below -30°C (-22°F), tests included rapid window defrosting and efficient interior heating. Particular attention was also paid to vehicle behavior on snow and ice, with the aim of achieving optimal grip, stability and reliable operation of the safety systems.
In arid desert environments, Škoda Peaq test vehicles were exposed to intense sunlight for 12 months to assess paint quality and the durability of plastic components. Driving tests in extreme heat also placed heavy demands on the brakes, chassis and cooling systems. On dusty and gravel roads, over which the Škoda Peaq covered thousands of kilometers, engineers validated the interior sealing and the resistance of metal and plastic body components to flying stones.
The electric vehicle accommodates up to seven passengers and offers high driving comfort, balanced driving characteristics and low interior noise levels, creating the ideal conditions to enjoy the brand-new sound system by Sonos.
Making full use of the Volkswagen Group’s latest MEB+ platform, the SUV features new, efficient electric motors, batteries enabling a range of over 600km and an adaptive DCC chassis.
In related news, a rigorous RAM-D program at a military facility has validated the Torsus Terrastorm 4×4 HD
