If you want to understand where the car industry is going, in a global perspective, it is always a good idea to look at the makers of the big companies in this field.
In this case, these are two giants that are the largest manufacturers in the world.
And their approach to the field of electric vehicles is different and fascinating.
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Volkswagen has chosen a clear direction - rapid and full adoption of the field of electric propulsion.
The results are clear, in the European market, where ID models and those based on them, are the best-selling electric.
If the largest company in the field, invests so clearly in the electric field, probably for at least the next decade - this is the direction.
With us
And the first swallow of this launch, when it comes to our market at least, is the Skoda Aniac.
This is the first version of the parent company's new electric language, to land in our districts.
The test car has stabilized in a non-Israeli specification, one that detracts from some of what will come here on a regular basis and adds things that do not.
We focused mainly on the ability of the car itself, and on things that will not change between this level of equipment, and another.
The exterior design is already familiar to us from previous overseas encounters, but to the local audience it is completely new.
More than once we were stopped and interested.
Although the design is not incendiary, it is probably different and prominent enough to evoke will.
Perhaps it was also the color (arctic silver in the language of society) that attracted the said attention.
Our attention was drawn to the giant, 21-inch rims, completely redundant on local asphalt.
A parallel model in Israel will come with a 20-inch hoop - a little more logical.
on the road
The cabin is handsome, well made and clearly spacious.
As on the outside, here too the design relies on long and soothing lines while the bulk of the attention is taken by the huge touch screen.
The seats are great, even after long journeys and each of the occupants of this cabin, enjoys exceptional comfort and space.
Even on the ride the feeling is similar.
The handling of width fractures is not eloquent and there is a bit more road noise than we would like in a fast cruise.
And yes, some of the accusing finger here will be directed to those excessive hoops.
Of the various electric propulsion versions it offers, the Cognac comes to Israel with the most basic engine combined with a large battery.
The result is good and efficient performance even if not jaw-dropping jaws in the style of electrical testimony.
The second result of this combination is a rather impressive driving range.
The official figure speaks of 507 km, while on the test days, which are immediately busy, the average power consumption in combined driving yielded a figure of 388 km between charges.
The Bottom Line
In many respects, Skoda should be the first to present this comprehensive answer to the electric need from the Volkswagen Group.
It is the best-selling European brand in Israel for years and there is probably something in its logical and effective message.
And this is exactly how cognac feels, makes sense and is effective.
It gives a complete answer not only to the electric need but in general to transport passengers in this age.
With a somewhat futuristic look and feel, safe and solid road behavior, and also a price that puts it directly within the evolving segment.
A successful first step, which will pave the way for more such versions and models from the other brands in the concern.
Skoda Aniac
iV80
Motor:
electric
Power:
204 hp
Torque:
31.5 kg
Gear:
Out, 1 Hill
Wheelbase:
276 cm
Weight:
2,658 kg
Range (test):
388 km
From 0 to 100 km / h:
8.7 seconds
Maximum speed (computer limited):
160 km / h
Price:
from NIS 190,000
Pros:
Spacing, armature, range
Cons:
21-inch rims
Bottom line:
the European answer to the electric wave
