Škoda Revives Utility Vehicle Line with All-Electric Enyaq Cargo
A new, practical commercial vehicle joins Škoda’s lineup, catering to businesses with a focus on electric mobility. The Enyaq Cargo, a conversion of the popular all-electric SUV, is now available to corporate customers in the United Kingdom, marking the brand’s return to a segment it has historically served.
For years, Škoda customers have requested a light utility offering, but the automaker remained unresponsive. “Some of the customers are constantly calling them, but Škoda Auto is deaf for their requests,” according to industry observers. The last dedicated commercial vehicle from Škoda was the Roomster, discontinued a decade ago. However, the Czech automaker now appears to be addressing this demand, albeit initially for the UK market.
A Legacy of Utility Vehicles
Škoda has a long history of producing practical, work-focused vehicles. Historically, similar models have been based on the Favorit, Felicia, Fabia, and even the Octavia in some markets. The Roomster, essentially an MPV with a utilitarian focus – lacking rear seats and featuring covered rear windows – represented the last iteration of this tradition. Its discontinuation in 2014 left a gap in Škoda’s portfolio.
Enyaq Cargo: A Simple, Effective Conversion
The Enyaq Cargo’s transformation is straightforward. The rear seats are removed, replaced by a solid partition with a small window for security and soundproofing. The rear side windows are darkened and lack electric operation, and a cargo net secures items through the rear window. A practical, segmented floor and a dedicated storage box for charging cables complete the conversion.
The work was undertaken in collaboration with Strongs Plastic Products, a specialized company responsible for the partition and flooring. A company release confirmed the Enyaq Cargo is registered as a light commercial vehicle, unlocking potential tax benefits for businesses. Currently, sales are restricted to fleet customers through Škoda’s UK corporate branch.
Pricing and Specifications
The conversion itself begins at £1815 (approximately $2300 USD or less than 52,000 Czech crowns) excluding taxes, with the final cost dependent on specific customer requirements. The Enyaq Cargo is offered in 85 and 85x configurations, both utilizing a 77kWh battery pack and available with rear- or all-wheel drive. Importantly, the conversion does not appear to impact the vehicle’s range, which remains at 578 kilometers (359 miles) for the 85 model and 534 kilometers (332 miles) for the 85x.
The base Enyaq 85 in the UK starts at CZK 1.26 million (approximately $54,000 USD). While official load capacity figures haven’t been released, analysts estimate it will mirror the standard Enyaq, offering up to 584 pounds (265 kg) for the 85 and up to 595 pounds (270 kg) for the 85x. The standard Enyaq boasts 1710 liters (54 cubic feet) of cargo space with the rear seats folded.
Inspired by National Grid
The concept for the utility Enyaq originated with National Grid Energy Distribution, the UK’s largest electricity provider. Last year, the company purchased 70 electric Škoda vehicles, already converted into commercial vans, to support its operations. This initial demand demonstrated the viability and potential of the Enyaq Cargo concept.
The introduction of the Enyaq Cargo signals a strategic shift for Škoda, responding to market demand and embracing the growing trend of electric commercial vehicles. While currently limited to the UK and fleet sales, the success of this model could pave the way for wider availability and further expansion of Škoda’s utility vehicle offerings.
