Skoda Superb will go hybrid by 2019

Skoda plans to launch the hybrid version of their flagship sedan, the Superb by 2019. The Superb will be followed by all-electric cars based on the parent company, Volkswagen’s plan to introduce 30 plus electric vehicles by 2025.

The Skoda Superb hybrid will make use of technology which underpins the Volkswagen Passat GTE which is already on sale in the UK and the consequent Skoda models, including the new seven-seater SUV, will also make use of the same platform thereafter. The Czech manufacturer wants to initiate the hybridisation with the Superb since the car has a great demand in China. 

Considering the fact that Superb’s arch rivals – Toyota Camry and Honda Accord are already available with the hybrid technology, Skoda is a little late to enter the fray. However, Skoda contemplates 2019 as an ideal time for them to bring in the hybrid technology. They consider that it is a time when the higher demands for hybrid cars will actually help bring down the cost, as Skoda wants to provide the technology at an affordable price to the customers.

The details surfaced after the brand’s chief executive, Bernhard Maier, speaking at the launch of the Skoda Kodiaq, said “As a brand, Skoda does not need to be first to market - it needs to offer technology people want at a price they can afford. That is why 2019 is our target.”

The electric cars from Skoda are expected to be based on Volkswagen's Modular Electric Toolkit (MEB) platform, but Maier says that the car’s design will be distinctive to Skoda. Maier further added, "I cannot tell you much, but I promise this all-new car will be awesome. The advantages of lots of space in a smaller footprint play to Skoda's strengths for offering good value."