For Skoda owners caught out by unexpected cold weather, the ice scraper hidden inside the fuel filler flap is a saviour.
The unassuming plastic square means there is no need to chisel away at a frozen windscreen with a credit card. It also doubles as a handle tyre tread depth gauge.
It is just one of a number of Skoda’s ‘Simply Clever’ ideas, that YouTube influencers would probably refer to as ‘life hacks’.
However, the all-new Enyaq iV SUV caused Skoda a challenge for the humble ice scraper.
An (iced) gem of an idea
Skoda’s first electric SUV has a charging port that hides behind a cover, much like a fuel filler flap. When charging, the cover has to remain open, meaning the prized ice scraper could be easily stolen.
The Simply Clever solution is, unsurprisingly, rather simple. Skoda has moved the ice scraper to a special compartment inside the tailgate, keeping it safe but still accessible.
What is Skoda’s rationale for not putting it inside the driver’s door? When the weather is really bad, opening the door would mean snow falling off the roof, and onto the seat. Obvious, when you think about it.
Ice scraper fans will also be keen to know that the special Skoda item is now into a third generation. The second iteration switched to a softer plastic to avoid scratching windows, whilst the latest model includes the tyre depth gauge.
Clever inside and out
Moving the ice scraper is not the only Simply Clever feature integrated into the Enyaq iV.
Skoda has designed a special cover for use when the electric SUV is being charged, preventing the cable from freezing in place.
A special storage bag for the charging cable has been made to fit neatly behind the wheel arch in the Enyaq iV’s boot. The bag itself is washable, and incorporates a sponge that cleans the cable as it is pulled out.
Opening the boot now sees the light illuminate space behind the Enyaq iV, whilst the interior is packed with storage options. Being electric means no transmission tunnel, offering up extra room beneath the centre console.
Oh, and Skoda’s trademark umbrellas remain.
Enyaq iV is ready to order
Skoda is now accepting orders for the Enyaq iV, with pricing from £31,085. This includes a government Plug-in Car Grant of £3,000.
Customers will be able to use Skoda’s new ‘Lease and Care’ finance package with the Enyaq iV.
This acts a personal lease deal, with buyers able to specify the level of maintenance support to include with their monthly payment.
A partnership with energy company Octopus Go will give Enyaq iV drivers an extra boost. Switching their home energy supply to Octopus Go will net drivers a £90 credit – equivalent to 7,500 miles of charging.
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