Skoda Vision GT revealed as wild all-electric racer
Meet the new Skoda Vision GT, a striking 1072bhp all-electric racing car concept designed exclusively for the Gran Turismo Playstation game.
The new electric racer expands the firm’s presence in the digital racing world, and has been created to attract new fans to the Skoda brand.
"The Skoda Vision Gran Turismo study bridges our rich heritage to our electric future and new Modern Solid design language," said Skoda CEO, Klaus Zellmer.
"Our customers are explorers, and the sleek Skoda Vision Gran Turismo car is a great way to enrich their experiences while also attracting new fans to our brand.”
The outlandish supercar has a motor on each wheel for an all-wheel-drive layout, and produces 1072bhp and 752lb ft of torque.
Skoda says that by adding four-wheel-drive and active aero parts, the Vision GT should be able to offer maximum performance on all Gran Turismo tracks under any conditions.
Skoda’s latest EV is powered by an 87kWh battery and uses a single-speed automatic transmission. The Czech brand claims that the car’s all-wheel drive layout optimises the distribution of torque between the two axles for the best cornering performance.
Skoda also says the Vision GT uses a pushrod suspension system, similar to the one used in Formula E, which is said to lower the centre of gravity, reduce body roll and improve stability at higher speeds.
The single seater concept weighs just 1300kg, which improves driving dynamics and efficiency.
In terms of design, the Vision GT is a far cry from Skoda's current lineup of production cars. The new racing car takes inspiration from the firm’s 1100 OHC Spider racing car from 1957, which was designed to compete in the 24 hours of Le Mans.
The Vision GT also incorporates the firm’s new Modern Solid design language that will be used for its upcoming electric cars.
The low-slung single-seater features an elongated body, sleek aero-honed bonnet, a blanked-off grille for better aerodynamics, T-shaped headlights and active aero components.
The split rear-wing deploys to ensure the car handles well, and rises up vertically when braking hard into a corner.
Move to the inside and the Vision GT is just as radical as the exterior. The open-top concept takes on a minimalist approach, with a digital cockpit and central driving position.
The steering wheel takes the shape of a yoke and has been designed by Skoda in collaboration with Gran Turismo gamers. Skoda says the wheel and its button controls are all based on a real-life gaming wheel.
Above the steering in the driver's field of view is a crystal stone that serves as the cars power meter. The digital cockpit display shows the car's speed, driving mode and battery level, but also doubles as a rearview mirror so driver's can see competitors behind them at all times.
You can drive the new Skoda Vision GT on the Gran Turismo 7 Playstation game now.
