My Enyaq: from daily drives to caravan escapes

From everyday commutes to caravan getaways. Discover how Škoda Enyaq has completely transformed travel experiences and why going electric is not just a choice but a lifestyle.

11. 7. 2024 eMobility

In the heart of Denmark’s Jutland, nestled in the village of Sønder Felding, south of Herning, lives Poul Houborg Jepsen, 49. By day, he drives an electric minibus transporting disabled school children. His wife Dorthe works in a canteen in the nearest larger city. Together, they find peace in the simplicity of the village life, enriched by shared hobbies – one of which is embarking on adventures in their caravan.

Mr and Mrs Jepsen’s Škoda Enyaq iV 60 Sportline

“Our journey with Škoda has been long and fulfilling,” Poul reminisces, sharing a glimpse into their automotive history. The Škoda Enyaq iV 60 Sportline marks their seventh Škoda – quite a testament to their loyalty to the brand. Acquired in May 2023, this red gem is not just a vehicle for them, but a statement of their style and preferences. “Before the Enyaq, we owned a 2019 Fabia Combi TSI DSG for four years. But the allure of electric mobility, combined with my experience driving an electric minibus at work, made the transition to an electric car a natural step for us,” Poul explains.

The decision to embrace electric technology was influenced not just by functionality but by a more down-to-earth factor – the red paint. “The colour was a significant deciding factor for us. When we found a red Sportline, we knew we simply had to have it,” Poul says with a smile.

Now, with approximately 36,000 kilometres on the odometer, the Enyaq has woven itself into their lives. It’s not just Poul and Dorthe who have taken a liking to the electric Škoda; their family and friends are equally positive. “They think the car, and especially the colour, is very nice. There’s a lot of curiosity about what it’s like to own an electric car, as there are only a few in our circle so far,” Poul shares.

Apart from the colour they liked, e-Mobility was a key factor in their choosing the Enyaq.

Charging is an opportunity

Soon, the red Enyaq has become an integral part of their daily lives. “Dorthe drives it to her job every day, while I bring the electric minivan home from work. On weekends, we’re often out and about, sometimes towing our caravan for little adventures,” Poul describes and says that it was crucial for them that the Enyaq could be used just like any car they’ve owned before, both for daily driving and for trips with the caravan.

Regarding range, Poul provides some insight into their experience with the Enyaq’s battery life. “In the winter, we get about 220 to 250 kilometres on a single charge, but last summer, we were hitting between 370 to 390 kilometres.” Opting for the 60 model with the smaller battery was a deliberate choice, advised by several Škoda dealers who understood their needs. “They suggested that for what we need, the larger battery would simply be an unnecessary expense. We’ve always seen charging stops on longer journeys as an opportunity rather than a hassle. It’s a chance for a break, maybe to stretch our legs or take a quick rest stop – a win-win, really.”

Charging the Enyaq has become a routine, harmoniously integrated into their lives, much like refuelling a conventional car but with the added convenience of doing it at home. “We mostly charge it on the charging box installed by my company for the electric minivan. Charging up to 80–90 per cent on Sundays, then topping up for an hour on Wednesdays and Fridays as needed, suits us perfectly,” Poul outlines a strategy that maximises efficiency without disrupting their schedule.

Despite the common concern of “running out of juice”, Poul and Dorthe’s experience has been positive and anxiety-free. “We’ve never actually run out of power. Dorthe was initially a bit nervous about the range, but that concern quickly faded. She’s managed to get home with a 3- or 4-per-cent charge on a few occasions without any issue,” Poul recounts, reflecting a growing confidence in their electric vehicle.

Towing on electricity? No worries!

The allure of the open road, coupled with the comfort of a home-on-wheels, has long captivated them. “So when we decided on the Enyaq, it was imperative that it could handle our caravan. We even had the caravan weighed to ensure it was within the Enyaq’s towing capacity, leaving some margin at 1200 kilograms for our 1000-kilo caravan,” Poul recounts.

Their caravan, a 1997 model bought in a moment of “corona madness”, represents a nostalgic return to simpler times and has been the centrepiece of their travels across Denmark. From the windswept landscapes of Skagen, Denmark’s northernmost town, to the rugged shores of Rømø close to the German border, and the serene beauty of Silkeborg, the Enyaq and caravan have proven to be stable companions. “Last summer’s journey from Skagen to Rømø and our autumn retreat to Silkeborg in a storm affirmed the Enyaq’s stability and reliability. Despite the storm’s fury, the weight of the Enyaq ensured stable traction on the road, making our hurried escape from Silkeborg feel secure,” Poul recalls.

Poul’s main concern was how the Enyaq would cope with a caravan.

The Enyaq, even with its smaller battery option and 179 horsepower, impresses with its efficiency and power, challenging the concept of more always being better. “With the caravan in tow, the Enyaq averages about 29.5 kWh per 100 kilometres. Contrary to what one might expect, we haven’t experienced any dip in power or dynamics. It’s quite remarkable, actually, and makes you question the towing capacity limits,” Poul expresses his respect for the vehicle’s capabilities.

However, charging the Enyaq while towing the caravan is a logistical challenge – as the charging slot is usually for one car only without counting with trailer. “We have to unhook the caravan at charging stations, as we primarily use fast chargers on our travels. Despite this being less than ideal, it’s a manageable aspect of the journey, and we’re encouraged by news of more charging stations accommodating trailers,” Poul notes, explaining the space problem when towing a caravan and needing to charge, as well as pointing towards a brighter caravanning future.

With a caravan, most charging slots are a problem, but there is a solution: just unhitch the caravan.

Reflecting on the differences between towing with their previous combustion engine vehicle and the Enyaq, Poul highlights the seamless transition and the benefits of electric towing. “Our experiences towing with the Fabia and now the Enyaq reveal the electric option as not just viable but preferable in many aspects.”

For those contemplating the switch to electric towing, Poul offers some advice based on experience. “Don’t hesitate to make the step. Even for long trips, an electric vehicle like the Enyaq, even with a smaller battery, is more than capable. While we chose the smaller battery for our local adventures, those eyeing longer journeys, perhaps to destinations as far as, say, Italy, might consider the larger battery. But for our needs and travel preferences, the Enyaq has been a perfect match.”

Poul Houborg Jepsen with his wife

Small things that matter

If Poul’s narration has sounded like a fairy tale to you so far, you might wonder: is there any disadvantage to an electric car? “The biggest downside? You find yourself driving more often than necessary, just because you can,” Poul chuckles. When discussing the benefits, the conversation turns more practical. “The comfort and economics of driving an electric vehicle are unmatched,” Poul explains. “While the initial purchase price is steep, the ongoing costs are significantly lower. Electricity prices, compared to fuel, and the low ownership tax in Denmark make it economically sensible.”

Maintenance and servicing of the Enyaq have been straightforward for Poul and Dorthe. “We’ve had a few updates and warranty work done, like the logo light in the mirrors, but nothing major. Our local Škoda dealer in Herning has been incredibly helpful.”

The Enyaq’s design and its clever solutions are a highlight for the Jepsens, especially when it comes to family outings. “Having clever storage and convenience features makes a big difference, especially when we’re out with our nephew and niece. It’s the small things that make you appreciate your car even more,” Poul notes showcasing how the Enyaq caters to the needs of family users.

Poul’s Enyaq is his seventh Škoda.

For those curious about the range and handling of an electric vehicle, Poul has a valuable observation. “Learning to understand and predict your car’s range becomes second nature over time. Though, towing a caravan can skew the display’s accuracy a bit.”

He recalls an encounter that highlights the Enyaq’s unexpected appeal. “Our Velvet red Sportline turned heads, especially in its early days. Once, near a prestigious hotel in Gammel Skagen, our Enyaq drew more attention than a nearby Ferrari and Range Rover. It seems the allure of electric mobility can rival even the most luxurious of combustion cars,” he recounts with a laugh.

Concluding his reflections, Poul encourages those considering an electric vehicle to embrace the change. “It’s simpler than you think. We explored other brands but our history with Škoda, combined with the Enyaq’s offerings, made it the perfect choice for us.”