National Grid Transforms Skoda Enyaq into Electric 4×4 Utility Vehicle
National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) has expanded its fleet with a groundbreaking conversion of the fully electric Skoda Enyaq SUV into a 4×4 utility vehicle. Partnering with Skoda and vehicle conversion specialist Strongs, NGED has developed a sustainable, off-road-capable EV tailored to the needs of its engineering teams.
Originally designed as a family SUV, the Enyaq has been reengineered into a light commercial vehicle (LCV), featuring a lightweight bulkhead and custom interior modifications to store essential equipment. The conversion incorporates high-strength, lightweight materials to enhance durability while preserving the vehicle’s electric range.
Achieving LCV classification required close collaboration with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to ensure regulatory compliance. This designation allows NGED to benefit from van-specific tax advantages, making the vehicle a cost-effective addition to its fleet.
Serving around eight million customers across the South West, South Wales, and the Midlands, NGED has ordered an initial 70 modified Enyaqs as part of its carbon reduction strategy. Each vehicle is expected to cut CO2 emissions by 241g/km, contributing to an estimated annual reduction of 4,820 tonnes of carbon. This move complements NGED’s ongoing transition to cleaner energy solutions, which already includes 56 Nissan Leaf cars, over 300 electric vans, and 600 electric company cars.
Chris Mayell, NGED’s transport manager, emphasized the project’s impact: “As one of the UK’s largest fleets, this marks a key milestone in our journey toward net zero. We recognized the potential of the Enyaq and explored innovative ways to adapt it into a fully electric vehicle that meets operational needs while reducing emissions in the communities we serve.”
Simon Gregory, director at Strongs, highlighted the challenges of the conversion: “There were no ready-made commercial solutions that met NGED’s unique requirements. This project required out-of-the-box thinking to create a vehicle that could handle demanding conditions while aligning with environmental goals.”
Skoda’s Amy Nash praised the collaboration, stating, “At Skoda, we thrive on finding innovative solutions. Working with NGED to develop a 4×4 EV utility vehicle—a rarity in today’s market—demonstrates how challenging convention can lead to remarkable results. We are proud of the efforts from all involved and look forward to seeing these vehicles in action.”
The modified Enyaqs will be deployed across NGED’s service regions, demonstrating how electric vehicles can be adapted for specialized roles while supporting broader sustainability initiatives.