Skoda has officially named its long-awaited flagship electric SUV the Peaq, confirming the production version of the Vision 7S concept will arrive in mid-2026 as a direct competitor to premium seven-seat electric vehicles like the Kia EV9, Hyundai Ioniq 9, and Volvo EX90. The announcement marks a significant milestone in the Czech brand’s transition to an all-electric future, positioning the Peaq as Skoda’s most ambitious vehicle launch to date.
From Concept to Production: The Peaq’s Journey
The Peaq builds directly on the Vision 7S concept unveiled in 2022, which introduced Skoda’s Modern Solid design philosophy. However, the production version represents a significant evolution rather than a direct translation. According to Martin Jahn, Skoda’s sales and marketing board member, the extended development timeline allowed the brand to reconsider market positioning and refine its product identity. “With the Vision 7S, we entered new territory for Skoda, with a clear idea of how to elevate the brand. Since then, we have introduced a new design language and further refined our product identity. Now we are bringing this innovative vehicle concept to life,” Jahn stated.
The Peaq will sit at the top of Skoda’s electric portfolio, positioned above the mid-size Enyaq EV. This strategic placement targets families and active lifestyle users seeking spacious, practical electric transport without the premium pricing of luxury alternatives.
Design Language: Modern Solid Comes to Life
The production Peaq will be the first model to fully adopt Skoda’s Modern Solid design philosophy, emphasizing durability, clarity, and functional minimalism. Key design elements include a distinctive tech deck face replacing the conventional grille, with a sleek black glass panel concealing sensors and cameras. The signature T-shaped lighting appears in both headlights and taillights, creating a bold visual identity that will define Skoda’s future electric models.
The exterior maintains much of the Vision 7S concept’s radical styling, including horizontal parking light stripes and vertical rectangular headlight segments. However, the production version introduces a floating roof effect created by a gap above the wide C-pillars, a refinement not present on the concept. Aerodynamic optimization includes flush door handles and specially designed wheels to enhance driving range despite the vehicle’s substantial size.
Specifications and Performance
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Full-size, seven-seat electric SUV |
| Length | Approximately 5 meters (16.4 feet) |
| Seating | Three-row configuration for seven passengers |
| Battery | Approximately 86-89 kWh (specifications vary by source) |
| Range | Over 600 km (373 miles) WLTP |
| Power Output (AWD) | Approximately 340 horsepower (250 kW) |
| DC Fast Charging | 10-80% in approximately 25 minutes |
| Platform | Updated Volkswagen Group MEB architecture |
| Motor Configuration | One or two electric motors, depending on trim level |
The Peaq will utilize an updated version of the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform that already underpins the Enyaq. Power configurations will vary by trim, with all-wheel drive models delivering approximately 340 horsepower. The large battery pack—estimated at 86-89 kWh—enables over 600 km of WLTP range, while DC fast charging capability allows 10-80% charging in roughly 25 minutes.
Interior: Practicality Meets Premium Comfort
Skoda emphasizes that the Peaq’s interior design prioritizes the brand’s core strengths: spaciousness, everyday usability, and comfort. The cabin layout targets families and active lifestyles, balancing passenger accommodation with flexible storage and intuitive controls. The “Simply Clever” design philosophy—Skoda’s trademark approach to user-friendly features—will play a central role, with innovative storage solutions and environmentally responsible recycled materials throughout.
The concept version featured an 8.8-inch digital instrument display and a 14.6-inch touchscreen with horizontal/vertical rotation capability, though final production specifications remain unconfirmed. The three-row seating arrangement provides genuine seven-seat versatility, appealing to families seeking electric alternatives to traditional combustion SUVs.
Market Positioning and Competition
Skoda positions the Peaq as a more accessible and practical alternative to established luxury electric SUVs. The vehicle directly targets the Kia EV9, Hyundai Ioniq 9, and Volvo EX90 segment, but with emphasis on value, space, and everyday functionality rather than premium positioning.
This strategy reflects Skoda’s broader market approach: delivering substantial capability and technology at more competitive price points than luxury competitors. By combining seven-seat practicality with modern electric technology, the Peaq is designed to bridge the gap between family transport and future-focused mobility.
The vehicle will play a strategic role in broadening Škoda’s appeal in key global markets, including Australia, where demand for spacious electric SUVs continues to grow. European sales will commence before the end of 2026, with broader global availability expected to follow.
Launch Timeline and Availability
The Peaq will make its world premiere in mid-2026, with sales commencing in Europe before the end of the year. Specific pricing remains unconfirmed, though Skoda has indicated the vehicle will position itself as a premium offering within its portfolio while maintaining value relative to luxury competitors.
Unanswered Questions
Several critical specifications remain unconfirmed ahead of the mid-2026 debut. Official pricing has not been released, making direct cost comparison with the EV9 and Ioniq 9 impossible at this stage. Battery options and their corresponding range/performance figures are unclear—sources reference both 86 kWh and 89 kWh capacities without clarification on whether multiple options will be available. The exact power output for single-motor variants has not been specified. Additionally, detailed interior technology specifications, including infotainment system details and autonomous driving capabilities, remain under wraps pending the official reveal.
Verdict
The Peaq represents Skoda’s most ambitious electric vehicle to date, translating the bold Vision 7S concept into a production reality designed for families seeking spacious, practical electric transport. By combining seven-seat versatility with modern electric technology and Skoda’s trademark focus on user-friendly design, the Peaq targets a genuine market gap between affordable family EVs and premium luxury alternatives. The vehicle is positioned for buyers who prioritize interior space, everyday usability, and value over premium brand cachet—making it particularly relevant for Australian families and European markets where practical electric SUVs command strong demand. Success will depend on competitive pricing at launch and delivery of the promised range and charging performance. The mid-2026 debut will provide definitive answers to current specification uncertainties.
