The new ŠKODA Enyaq iV electric car, which is due to be released this spring in the UK, has shown outstanding aerodynamics in its vehicle class. This helps with overall efficiency and as a result from preliminary data the electric sports utility vehicle (SUV) will offer up to 323 miles (520km) of range from it’s 150 kW electric motor.
The ŠKODA Enyaq iV is the first series model from the Czech car manufacturer to be based on the Volkswagen Group’s modular electrification toolkit (MEB). The all-electric SUV runs off the production line at ŠKODA’s main plant in Mladá Boleslav, making it the only MEB model in Europe to be produced outside of Germany.
Thanks to its streamlined body, the first all-electric ŠKODA model achieves an outstanding drag coefficient from Cd 0.257. In the process of achieving this it’s good to see ŠKODA shaped the Enyaq iV in a tasteful and considerate way that doesn’t takeaway from its overall aesthetic. This combined with the recycled materials used on the interior shows that ŠKODA has been committed to sustainability throughout the design of the Enyaq iV.
Besides an aerodynamically optimised body, this top drag coefficient value is achieved thanks to creative details such as the special aerodynamic wheels. These alone account for around 25 percent of the air resistance. Aerodynamically optimised alloy wheels are available for the Enyaq iV which ensures less air turbulence.
ŠKODA’s Enyaq iV also features an active cooling roller blind in the central front air intake. This air intake can be opened as far as necessary depending on the air cooling requirements of the electric drive, the lithium-ion battery and the air conditioning system. This is all operated by the Enyaq iV’s electronic system as necessary. With the shutter is closed it has a particularly favourable effect on the Enyaq iV’s aerodynamics and the range increases by up to seven kilometres.
The aerodynamically optimised lower part of the front bumper with uniquely shaped spoilers in front of the wheels directs the air under the vehicle where it flows along the smooth underbody panelling and the battery. Combined with the air curtains placed in the front bumper further accelerating the air, all these elements also guide the flow of air smoothly around the wheel arches towards the rear of the vehicle.
ŠKODA has also optimised exterior mirrors, the roof spoiler and rear diffuser to reduce aerodynamic drag behind the vehicle. The elongated roof profile and roof spoiler with integrated side finlets increase the vehicle’s downforce and, together with specific edges on the rear bumper, ensure smooth airflow around the body.
The flat underbody of the Enyaq iV reduces turbulence and enhances the airflow under the vehicle. In addition, the rear diffuser with an integrated spoiler lip interacts with the roof spoiler to balance the air turbulence behind the Enyaq iV.
The aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors that lower drag and reduce wind noise, are designed to direct air towards the rear and reduce airflow around the vehicle. To bolster this effect, the mirrors are located on the front doors, rather than in the A-pillar window triangle, allowing air to flow around it.
In the coming years aerodynamics are going to play an important role in electric vehicle design to achieve the highest efficiency and range. This combined with ever-evolving battery technology will only help to reassure electric car drivers and potential adopters of zero-emissions motoring.
