- The Skoda Peaq electric crossover was tested in the United States.
- Prototypes logged over 932,057 miles during development.
- Three-row flagship debuts next week with three powertrains.
Skoda is gearing up to unveil the all-new Peaq on June 23, but the company is giving us a look at its testing and development. This included a trip to America, where prototypes were subjected to extreme conditions in the Arizona desert.
Camouflaged versions of the electric flagship racked up more than 932,057 miles (1.5 million km) as they were tested in Africa, Europe, and North America. This included cold weather testing 124 miles (200 km) north of the Arctic Circle, where temperatures can drop to -40° F (−40 °C).
More: Skoda’s Three-Row EV Brings 373 Miles To The Kia EV9 Fight
In these chilly conditions, engineers paid close attention to heating the interior effectively and efficiently. They also focused on rapidly defrosting windows as well as ensuring the crossover delivered optimal grip and stability on snow and ice.
On the flip side, Skoda went to the desert to subject prototypes to “intense sunlight for 12 months to assess paint quality and the durability of plastic components.” Hot weather testing was also critical to ensure the brakes and cooling systems were up to the challenge, while also making sure the air conditioning system could cool the cabin quickly.
Engineers also racked up thousands of miles on dusty and gravel roads to validate “interior sealing and the resistance of metal and plastic body components to flying stones.”
As a refresher, the Peaq rides on the MEB+ platform and offers seating for up to seven people. Three powertrains will be offered including an entry-level 60 variant, which has a 63 kWh battery as well as a rear-mounted motor developing 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS). This gives the crossover a range in excess of 286 miles (460 km) as well as a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 8.6 seconds.
The mid-level Peaq 90 has a larger 91 kWh battery and a beefier rear motor producing 282 hp (210 kW / 286 PS). This increases the range to over 373 miles (600 km), while lowering the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time to 7.1 seconds.
The range-topping 90x combines the 91 kWh battery with a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 295 hp (220 kW / 299 PS). 62 mph (100 km/h) comes in 6.7 seconds, while it also has a range in excess of 373 miles (600 km).
