In this instalment of John Murdoch’s Drive Time, Johntakes a look at the new baby all-electric SUV from Skoda and features winter tips from motoring organisation GEM Motoring Assist to keep you safe and avoid costly bills.
Czech company Skoda’s all-new Elroq baby electric SUV will be priced from £31,500 when it arrives in the UK.
The Elroq has a variety of powertrain and battery options, with a maximum range of up to 360 miles and comes with a rear-view camera, Crew Protect Assist, blind spot detection and a 13-inch infotainment screen with SmartLink.
The compact SUV is the electric alternative to the Karoq and offers list price parity with its ICE counterpart.
The Elroq is the first Skoda model to adopt the brand’s new Modern Solid design language.
A glossy black Tech-Deck Face replaces the typical Skoda grille, while still referencing familiar Skoda lines.
The new front is also characterised by a front bumper with a dark chrome insert, while the hallmark Skoda SUV “four eyes” headlights graphic has been completely reinterpreted.
The Elroq is also the first model to feature the Skoda lettering on both the bonnet and steering wheel.
With an aerodynamic body, boasting a drag coefficient of just 0.26, it has a top speed of 111 mph and a 0 to 62mph acceleration of 6.6 seconds for the Elroq 85.
The Elroq is available with three different battery sizes and powertrains starting at 170ps for the entry-level Elroq 50 model.
The Elroq 85 can achieve a maximum range of 360 miles and charging rates of up to 175 kW at DC fast-charging stations enable the 82 kWh battery of the Elroq 85 to recharge from 10 to 80 per cent in 28 minutes.
The batteries of the Elroq 50 and Elroq 60 can be charged even more quickly, in 25 minutes or less.
It has the largest boot in its class with 470 litres of luggage capacity and up to 1,580 litres with the rear seats folded down.
The six model Elroq line up will top out at £41,600 for flagship SportLine 85 versions.
Meanwhile, the safety organisation GEM Motoring Assist has provided some basic vehicle tips that will help ensure drivers are not left stranded at the roadside during the winter months.
GEM’s list of tips will help ensure you won’t be needing breakdown help this winter.
Simple actions before you set off, such as checking there’s fuel in your tank and air in your tyres, can help ensure you keep moving, according to GEM.
Also, most battery failures and other electrical malfunctions can be prevented through routine checks and regular servicing.
GEM head of road safety James Luckhurst said: “Don’t wait for signs of car trouble before taking action, as it may be too late.
“We all know the roads are busy, and the last thing anyone needs is to be stranded at the roadside. GEM wants everyone to get to where they want to go in safety, with as little extra stress as possible.
“That’s why a few minutes spent on a few basic vehicle checks really could pay dividends.
“If things do go wrong, then a good breakdown recovery policy is vital and will cost a lot less than the fee required for roadside help.
“Basic maintenance checks minimise the risk of a breakdown and will make a big contribution to a happy trip for all the family.”
GEM’s tips for stress-free winter journeys are as follows:
- Ensure your car is serviced regularly. Its experts reckon that more than 50 per cent of breakdowns would not have occurred if the car had recently had a service. Be good to your battery.
- Cold weather puts an additional burden on it, so get it checked. Remember that batteries last an average of five years, so be ready to replace it if necessary.
- Check the pressure and tread on all your tyres, including the spare.
- Keep your screen wash topped up.
- Fill up with fuel before a journey, which should help you save money by avoiding the need for a pricey fill-up on the motorway. Aim to refill when the gauge drops to one quarter, in case you get stuck in a long traffic queue. Don’t wait for the fuel warning light to come on.
- Check your route for possible delays before you set off, and always have an alternative route planned.
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