Skoda has started production of the Epiq, its new electric vehicle, in Pamplona. It will arrive after the summer, but beware: first comes the 211 HP version with 440 km of range, a model that will cost around 35,000 euros. The promised cheap 25,000 euro version is only a lure that will take months to arrive, with fewer features and limited production. The Navarre factory, subsidized with public funds, assembles batteries imported from China while the real profit travels to the Czech Republic.
Chinese battery and reduced range: the margin engineering 🧐
The base Epiq will use a Chinese-sourced LFP battery, with an estimated real range of 300 km, far from the 440 km of the expensive version. Skoda prioritizes the 211 HP model because it yields a margin above 30%, compared to 10% for the low-cost model. Production of the cheap version will be rationed: dealerships will receive few units to push customers toward the powerful variant. Additionally, current interest rates will increase the monthly payment, making the final price exceed 30,000 euros with financing.
Pamplona manufactures, Czechia collects: the local window dressing trick 💸
The Pamplona factory has received multi-million dollar subsidies with the promise of stable employment. The reality: the jobs will be temporary, and the real owner of the operation is in Mlada Boleslav. Meanwhile, the average citizen reads 25,000 euros and rubs their hands together, unaware that they will end up paying 35,000 for a car with less range than an electric scooter. Skoda is selling us smoke with a hint of Navarre pintxos.