ŠKODA - Electric vehicle FAQs

1) What is ŠKODA iV?

iV is the new ŠKODA sub-brand for ŠKODA EVs and our connected E-Mobility ecosystem. Amongst other things, this E-Mobility ecosystem is planned to include wall boxes which will allow customers to conveniently recharge their vehicles at home.

2) When will ŠKODA electric vehicles be available?

The first vehicle available under the new ŠKODA iV sub-brand was the SUPERB iV. This vehicle is powered with Hybrid technology combining a 1.4 TSI petrol engine and an 85 kW electric motor creating a maximum power output of up to 218PS. You can learn more about this model here. Following on from this will be the All-New OCTAVIA iV, expected later this year.

3) What are the benefits of having a PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle)?

Owning a PHEV can provide you with excellent flexibility, offering you the benefit of driving purely electric for shorter journeys but the peace of mind of having a petrol engine for longer trips.

Hybrid vehicles such as the SUPERB iV attract low BiK rates as well as offering companies who provide these hybrid vehicles a 100% tax write-down in the first year, plus lower NI employer contributions.

4) Where can I learn more about public charging points for my EV?

With new charge points being added regularly, Ireland’s charging infrastructure is continuously expanding to meet the growing demand for EVs. ESB owns, operates and maintains approximately 1,100 public charge points across the island of Ireland. Check out our interactive map below to find the nearest ESB charge point to you.

5) Why do ŠKODA and other brands talk about an 80% charging time?

Typically, Electric Vehicle drivers would charge their car to between 20% and 80%.

Like a mobile phone, charging is quickest the first 20% and once it passes 80% it slows to protect the battery’s longevity.

6) What will happen to my vehicle battery after the vehicle life?

The Waste Batteries and Accumulators Regulations 2009 require batteries to be taken back free of charge on request. ŠKODA Ireland aim to make sure that high-voltage batteries are disposed of properly. Contact your  Local ŠKODA Retailer retailer for further information.

7) I live in a flat and the cable for charging isn’t long enough to reach my car, can I extend it using an extension cable?

No. Extension cables cannot cope with the power draw required to charge an electric vehicle. If you are unable to find a suitable place to charge at home perhaps consider if you can charge at work, on your day to day journey or at a local public charging point (again, we would recommend using Zap Map to help you with this).

8) Who can I get a home wall box from?

Our recommended wall box provider is currently Elli. Please visit the Elli website for more information.

9) Can I charge my electric car in the rain?

Yes. The vehicle is designed to be safe whilst charging on rainy days. However, the plugs and sockets are not designed to be immersed in water. Make sure you do not allow excess water to get into the plugs or socket.

10) Can I use an electric vehicle in a car wash?

Yes. Electric vehicles are designed and tested to the same standards as conventional combustion engine vehicles and can be taken through all types of car washes.

11) Is the range of an electric vehicle significantly affected by the cold weather in the winter?

It might surprise you to learn that Norway and Canada are the countries with the most electric car drivers. As with combustion engines, electric motors do consume more energy in the cold; however, there are lots of ways to get around this. Electric cars can be heated via an app, which reduces consumption when driving. Most electric vehicles also come with heated seats, which can be more economical than using the heater to stay warm in the winter months.