Skoda Enyaq and VW ID.3, ID.4, ID.5: Battery preheating via update for older versions
The Skoda Enyaq has been on the market since 2021. Until the end of 2023, this electric SUV did not have battery pre-conditioning. Skoda now reports that this feature can now be enabled via an over-the-air update. The same applies to the first generation of VW’s ID models, according to a VW spokesperson in an email. Thus, older VW ID.3, ID.4, and ID.5 models can also benefit from this update.
This function can significantly speed up fast charging, especially in low outdoor temperatures. Battery pre-conditioning was introduced in the Enyaq only starting from the 2023/2024 year change. If the software version starts with the number 4 or higher, the feature is already included. For older software versions, users can now update to version 3.9, while for VW models it’s version 3.9.1. The advantages of software version 3.91 are described on a VW website.
If version 3.8 is already installed, the vehicle will automatically offer an update; otherwise, an update to version 3.8 is required first, according to Skoda. For vehicles with version 3.X, this can be done online, while those with software version 2.X need to go to a dealership. Starting with version 3.8, two more updates are necessary: the first prepares the vehicle for battery preconditioning, and the second activates the function.
Since the update affects around 200,000 vehicles at Skoda alone, it will be rolled out gradually. At VW, the process began in early November, while Skoda will start with the first of the two updates on November 16, with the second following on November 30.
Skoda explains exactly how to determine the software version. The process may vary depending on the Enyaq variant. However, in the MySkoda app, the installed version can be checked in all models as follows:
Select the “Check” tab in the app.
Open the “Vehicle Details” menu item.
Read the software version under “Vehicle Software.” Clicking on the entry displays further details.
After an update, a new view called “Optimize Fast Charging” can be found on the touchscreen under the “Optimize” tab in the Charging section. There, you can manually activate pre-conditioning using the “Start Battery Pre-conditioning” button.
Manually activating battery conditioning on the Skoda Enyaq. Currently, the possible charging power is only 14 kW. After 47 minutes, it is indicated that at least 45 kW should be available. This modest value might also be due to a high battery charge level.
Image source: Skoda
The button is active only when the battery temperature is below 20 degrees Celsius. When tapped, the battery begins to warm up to an optimal charging temperature of around 25 degrees. This process takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the outdoor temperature and other conditions. Skoda recommends activating this function about 45 minutes before fast charging. Pre-conditioning is not required before AC charging. The following video explains how to configure the touchscreen so that you can reach the pre-conditioning button more quickly.
The current battery temperature can be displayed on the touchscreen via the “Battery Temperature for Fast Charging” menu item. The battery pre-conditioning view also shows the maximum charging power currently available.
Vehicles with software version 4 or higher also offer automatic battery preconditioning, meaning the preheating is activated automatically when a fast charger is entered as a destination in the navigation system. This feature is not included in the update.
More on the Skoda Enyaq and its smaller sibling, the Elroq:
In summary
The early Skoda Enyaqs did not have battery preconditioning, neither manual nor automatic. This meant that in winter, the optimal battery temperature for fast charging could only be achieved by driving quickly on the highway. Now, at least manual preconditioning can be installed. However, automatic preheating is not possible.