Volkswagen and Skoda are finally addressing a long-standing request from early ID.4, ID.5, and Enyaq EV owners: battery preconditioning. An over-the-air software update will soon bring this feature to more than 200,000 vehicles built between 2020 and 2024, promising improved charging performance in cold weather.
Battery Preconditioning Arrives for Early VW and Skoda EVs
Owners of the earliest Volkswagen ID.4, ID.5, and Skoda Enyaq electric vehicles have waited years for a battery pre-heating feature. Now, both brands are launching an over-the-air software update that will add this capability to vehicles manufactured from 2020 to 2024. The update is set to begin rolling out in the second half of November 2026, with additional waves following two weeks later.
From 2024 onward, these models have included automatic battery preconditioning as standard, but earlier vehicles missed out until now. The update will reach over 200,000 cars, enhancing charging performance especially in low temperatures.
How the Update Works
For the Skoda Enyaq, software version 3.9 introduces the battery pre-heating function, an updated welcome screen that no longer requires user confirmation, security updates, and a fix for the Online Connectivity Unit. Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5 models will receive similar improvements via software version 3.9.1, which also enhances electric door handle reliability and AC charging.
Owners with software version 3.8 will be prompted to install the latest update automatically over the air. Vehicles running version 2.x will need to visit an authorized service center to enable battery preconditioning. The new feature is manually activated via a virtual screen in the infotainment system, and the activation button is only available when the battery temperature is below 20°C (~68°F). The system also displays the battery’s current temperature for driver reference.
Once activated, the battery heats up to an optimal temperature of about 25°C (~77°F), a process that takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes. This allows the battery to accept higher power from DC fast chargers, reducing charging times in cold conditions.
Competitor Comparison
Battery preconditioning has become a standard feature among many EV competitors, especially those targeting colder climates. Brands like Tesla, Hyundai, and Kia have offered similar functionality for several years, giving them an edge in charging speed and convenience during winter. With this update, Volkswagen and Skoda are closing the gap for their early adopters, aligning their vehicles more closely with current market expectations.
Historical Context
Volkswagen Group delivered 4.73 million vehicles globally in 2024, reflecting a 1.4% year-over-year decline. The addition of battery preconditioning to older EVs may help retain customer loyalty and improve the ownership experience, especially as competition intensifies and consumer expectations rise.
Why this matters
The introduction of battery preconditioning for early ID.4, ID.5, and Enyaq models addresses a significant pain point for owners in colder regions, where charging times can increase dramatically without pre-heating. By offering this update, Volkswagen and Skoda are enhancing the usability and value of their existing EVs, potentially boosting customer satisfaction and brand reputation.
What this means for buyers
Current owners of affected Volkswagen and Skoda EVs should watch for the over-the-air update notification and ensure their vehicles are running the required software version. Those with older software may need to visit a service center. For prospective buyers, this move demonstrates both brands’ commitment to supporting their EVs over time and keeping pace with evolving industry standards.
Key Specs
- Eligible Models: Volkswagen ID.4, ID.5, Skoda Enyaq (2020–2024)
- Update Rollout: Second half of November 2026, in waves
- Number of Vehicles: Over 200,000
- Battery Preconditioning Activation: Manual, via infotainment screen
- Activation Temperature Threshold: Below 20°C (~68°F)
- Optimal Battery Temperature: 25°C (~77°F)
- Heating Duration: 30–40 minutes
- Software Versions: Skoda Enyaq: 3.9; VW ID.4/ID.5: 3.9.1
Images sourced from: electrek.co, autoblog.com, volkswagen-newsroom.com
