In a surprising yet exciting move, Skoda has introduced the Enyaq RS Race, a concept that redefines what an electric SUV can be by turning it into a lean, race-ready machine. This unique version of the mainstream Skoda Enyaq crossover sheds significant weight, dropping nearly 697 pounds, while boasting bold design elements and serious performance upgrades. Developed by Skoda’s motorsport division, this concept has the potential to reshape our expectations for the future of electric vehicles (EVs).
A Bold Take on Electric SUVs: The Skoda Enyaq RS Race Concept
Design and Weight Reduction: A Leaner, Meaner Machine
One of the most striking changes in the Enyaq RS Race is its reduced curb weight. This was achieved by stripping away all unnecessary components for racing, leaving behind only essential elements like the roll cage, a racing display, and a set of high-performance bucket seats with six-point harnesses. The rear seats are completely removed, making room for a stripped-down cabin that looks ready for the track.
A key element in the weight-saving process is the use of biocomposite materials made from flax fibers. These eco-friendly materials replace heavier components such as the bumpers, fenders, and even the roof. Skoda claims that biocomposites offer the same strength and weight-saving advantages as carbon fiber, but with a more sustainable edge. Additionally, the panoramic glass roof has been swapped for a lighter biocomposite panel, and the side and rear windows are made of lightweight polycarbonate.
Track-Ready Aerodynamics: Aggressive Looks with Functionality
The Skoda Enyaq RS Race doesn’t just cut weight; it also receives a full aerodynamic makeover. The exterior design features a large rear wing, front lip spoiler, and a functional rear diffuser. A NACA duct on the roof channels air into the cabin to cool the driver, while vertical vents behind the wheels provide cooling for the upgraded brakes. Darkened headlights, taillights, and a blacked-out version of Skoda’s signature “Crystal Face” grille give the RS Race an aggressive, no-nonsense appearance.
Suspension and Braking Upgrades: Built for Performance
Underneath its sleek bodywork, the Enyaq RS Race features a custom suspension setup, complete with adjustable springs and dampers. This setup is aimed at delivering handling that Skoda claims is on par with the Fabia RS Rally2 car, an impressive comparison considering the vehicle’s size and weight.
The braking system has also been enhanced with carbon-ceramic discs and multi-piston calipers—10-piston up front and four-piston in the rear. A new cooling system ensures that the brakes can handle the increased demands of track driving. Another racing feature added to the cabin is a tall hydraulic handbrake, which allows for more precise control in high-speed turns.
Powertrain: The Electric Heart of the Beast
While the 335-horsepower dual-motor electric powertrain remains unchanged from the standard Enyaq Coupé RS, its performance in the RS Race is nothing short of impressive. The all-wheel-drive system allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in under five seconds, with a top speed of 112 mph. While these numbers may not be jaw-dropping for a track car, they’re more than adequate for smaller, tighter circuits where agility and cornering are key, such as Lime Rock Park in Connecticut.
The 82.0-kWh battery also remains the same, which raises some interesting questions about range and longevity during track sessions. However, for a concept focused on showcasing Skoda’s racing aspirations, this setup works well enough.
A Unique Addition: The Motorsport Soundtrack
In a curious decision, Skoda has equipped the Enyaq RS Race with a sound system that generates what the brand describes as “exhilarating motorsport sounds.” While the idea of artificial engine noises in a race car might seem unnecessary, it could be Skoda’s way of adding excitement to the otherwise silent EV driving experience. Whether this feature will make it to production remains to be seen, but it certainly adds a unique flair to the concept.
The Future of EVs? What the Enyaq RS Race Could Mean
Skoda has made it clear that the Enyaq RS Race is a pilot project, exploring possibilities for future EVs rather than an immediate production model. However, this concept car offers valuable insights into how electric SUVs could evolve—both in terms of performance and sustainability. The use of biocomposite materials, lightweight design, and motorsport-inspired upgrades could very well influence the next generation of EVs from Skoda and its parent company, Volkswagen Group.
It’s unlikely that a full-blown racing version of the Enyaq will hit the streets anytime soon, but the playful and innovative spirit of the RS Race could inspire future electric crossovers to be more than just practical, eco-friendly vehicles. With its daring design, performance upgrades, and sustainability-focused materials, the Enyaq RS Race serves as a glimpse into the thrilling potential of EV technology.
Conclusion: Pushing the Boundaries of Electric SUVs
The Skoda Enyaq RS Race might be a concept car, but it challenges the notion that electric SUVs must be purely utilitarian. By blending motorsport engineering with eco-friendly materials and bold design, Skoda has shown that even electric people-movers can offer excitement and track-ready performance. As the EV market continues to grow, concepts like this pave the way for more adventurous and dynamic electric vehicles in the future.