Skoda
- The Skoda Enyaq RS Race is a wild-looking concept that transforms a mainstream crossover into a track toy by shedding 697 pounds.
- Its 335-hp dual-motor electric powertrain is closely related to the all-wheel-drive setup found in the U.S.-market Volkswagen ID.4.
- Along with reducing weight, the Enyaq RS Race features a unique suspension, upgraded brakes, and a hydraulic handbrake.
In Europe, the Volkswagen ID.4 has a stylish counterpart in the form of the sharply styled Skoda Enyaq. Notably, Skoda decided to turn its compact EV crossover into a track machine with the Enyaq RS Race. While this might seem like an unusual choice for a track conversion, Skoda’s effort is commendable. The vehicle not only showcases a striking appearance but also sheds 697 pounds, instilling hope that the future of electric vehicles could be far more exciting than previously anticipated.
Developed by Skoda’s motorsport division, known for its work on the Fabia RS Rally2 car, the Enyaq RS Race is engineered to sit 2.8 inches lower and measures 2.8 inches wider at the front and 4.6 inches wider at the rear compared to its road-going counterpart. The most significant distinction versus the standard Enyaq Coupé RS lies in its notably lower curb weight.
Skoda
Two crucial factors contribute to the significant weight savings. First, Skoda has removed “all components not needed for the car’s intended use.” The interior is stripped down, featuring only a roll cage, a large screen, a steering wheel, and a couple of racing bucket seats equipped with six-point harnesses. Additionally, the rear seats have been eliminated.
The other key factor is the extensive use of biocomposite materials made from flax fibers, including the bumpers, fenders, roof, and rear wing. These sustainable parts, which Skoda claims have the same rigidity and weight advantages as carbon fiber, can also be found inside the dashboard, door panels, and footrests. The road car’s panoramic glass roof has been replaced with a biocomposite panel, while the side and rear windows are now made from lightweight polycarbonate.
Skoda
Aesthetically, the Enyaq RS Race boasts a fierce aerodynamics package, featuring a large rear wing, front lip spoiler, and rear diffuser. On the roof, a NACA duct channels air into the cabin to keep the driver cool, while small winglets direct air towards the rear wing. Additionally, vertical vents located behind the front and rear wheels aid in brake cooling. The headlights and taillights are darkened, and the production vehicle’s “Crystal Face” grille has been blackened, adorned with a thin LED strip that enhances its menacing look.
Skoda claims that the Enyaq RS Race matches the handling capabilities of the Fabia rally car, incorporating adjustable springs and dampers. It is equipped with a high-performance braking system that features carbon-ceramic discs, 10-piston calipers at the front, and four-piston calipers at the rear, along with a new cooling system. You may notice the prominent hydraulic handbrake protruding from the center of the cabin.
Skoda
Although the electric powertrain remains unchanged, this is not necessarily a drawback, as the standard Enyaq Coupé RS features a dual-motor system producing 335 horsepower. Skoda asserts it can accelerate from zero to 62 mph in less than 5.0 seconds and reach a top speed of 112 mph, which means the Enyaq RS Race is likely best suited for smaller tracks with shorter straights, such as the 1.5-mile-long Lime Rock Park in Connecticut. The 82.0-kWh battery retains its original configuration.
Interestingly, Skoda has equipped the race car with a sound system that emits what it describes as “characteristic, exhilarating motorsport sounds.” The rationale behind this feature for a race car remains somewhat unclear. Skoda indicates that the Enyaq RS Race concept is a pilot project that may introduce ideas into future production vehicles. While it is unlikely that the Volkswagen-owned Czech brand intends to develop a racing version of its electric crossover, it is hoped that some of this spirited design will influence the Volkswagen Group’s future offerings in the electric vehicle sector.
Caleb Miller
Associate News Editor
Caleb Miller began blogging about cars at 13 years old and achieved his dream of writing for a car magazine after graduating from Carnegie Mellon University and joining the Car and Driver team. He is passionate about unique and obscure automobiles, aspiring to someday own a quirky vehicle such as a Nissan S-Cargo, and is also an enthusiastic motorsports fan.
