After a pre-launch special, MG Motor has sold over 120 of their EV, the MG ZS, which is due to actually go on sale in November. At $55,990, it’s comparatively good value compared to other EV offerings, at around $10,000 cheaper than any other full EV for sale.
Boasting a full ADAS suite called MG Pilot, first seen on MG HS and the new MG ZST, the car has a real-world range of over 250 kilometres, a five star Euro NCAP rating and according to MG Motor, family sized passenger and luggage space.
Electrification
MG ZS EV customers can enjoy a driving range of up to 262 kilometres from a single charge[i] on the WLTP combined cycle. ZS EV features three levels of KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery) and three driving modes, Eco, Normal and Sport, allowing drivers to adapt to their everyday driving needs, and levels of energy conservation.
ZS EV is powered by a 44.5kWh, water-cooled, lithium‐ion battery, delivering 353Nm of instant torque and 105kW of power. It is charged via CCS and Type 2 ports, mounted within the front grille. The MG ZS EV can be rapid charged to 80% in 40 minutes from a 50kW rapid charging point, while owners can fully charge their vehicles in seven hours, utilising a standard 7kW home charging unit (available as an option), or can be charged at a slower rate using the included Mode 2 (home charger).
The MG ZS EV is fitted with a 7kW on-board charger for Type 2 AC charging as standard, in addition to rapid 50 kW DC capability.
Design
The MG ZS was designed at the outset to be ICE or BEV. As a result, interior space is almost identical on both models. ZS EV will be available in one trim level, packed with features. Inside, the MG ZS EV retains the boot space (470L seats up) of other ZS models and also features an panoramic stargazer sunroof, 8” colour touchscreen, integrated Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six-speaker Yamaha surround sound audio, and satellite navigation, heated front seats, electrically adjustable driver’s seat, proximity key and keyless start and unique 17″ light alloy aero wheels, with tyre pressure monitoring system.
Safety
The ZS EV boasts a full ADAS suite called MG Pilot. The driver aids include forward collision warning (AEB), adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, lane keeping assist, blind spot detection, speed sign recognition, rear cross traffic alert, and high beam assist to help keep you safe and focused on the road ahead. In addition, ZS EV was awarded a 5 star Euro NCAP safety rating, and a rear parking camera with sensors.
Warranty
MG ZS EV will receive a 7-year / 130,000km transferable new vehicle and battery warranty.
Infrastructure
Closing in on its goal of installing DC rapid charging stations every 75 kilometres across major highways in the nation, New Zealand is a global leader in the installation of EV charging infrastructure. Locally MG have partnered with TransNet to supply and install the Wallbox range of home chargers in customers’ homes. Around 80% of EV charging is typically done at home. A professionally installed 7.0kW home charger is therefore recommended.
Anthony MacLean, Business Manager, MG Motor New Zealand, said: “MG ZS EV is the most exciting product to join our rapidly expanding portfolio. Kiwi’s love SUV’s and so it is important to offer an affordable SUV that is also electric. Some customers put down a deposit 12 months ago; that is a testament to their foresightedness and patience.
“ZS EV is the first truly family friendly EV on the market. I think it will quickly win over the passionate EV community and will make great strides in converting more New Zealanders to become EV fans.”
MG Motor parent company, SAIC Motor announced the return of the brand to New Zealand and now have a network of 12 dealers across the country. Globally in 2019 SAIC produced over 6.2million vehicles.
| PERFORMANCE & TRANSMISSION | |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Front Suspension | MacPherson Struts |
| Rear Suspension | Torsion Beam |
| Electric Motor Type | Synchronous Motor |
| Battery Capacity, kWh | 44.5 |
| Maximum Power (kW) | 105 |
| Maximum Torque (Nm) | 353 |
| 0-‐100kmph (seconds) | 8.5 |
| Maximum speed (kph) | 140 |
| Charger Connection Type | Type 2 plus CCS |
| Estimated 7kW Charge Time (full charge) / hours | 7 |
| 50kW CCS Charge Time (to 80%) / mins | 40 |
| Driving Range: WLTP Combined Cycle (km) | 262 |
| Driving Range: WLTP: City (km) | 371 |
| Driving Efficiency: WLTP Combined kWh/100km | 18.6 |
| DIMENSIONS | |
| Overall Length | 4,314mm |
| Width exc. mirrors | 1,809mm |
| Overall Width inc. mirrors | 2,048mm |
| Height | 1,644mm |
| Wheelbase | 2585 |
| Front Track | 1,526mm |
| Rear Track | 1,539mm |
| Turning Circle | 11.2m |
| Luggage capacity (seats up) | 448Ltrs |
| WARRANTY & SERVICING | |
| Standard servicing interval | 1 year / 20,000 kilometres |
| Warranty (inc. battery) | 7 years / 130,000 kilometres |
[i] From a single charge on the WLTP combined cycle: Combined Range: 262 km; City Range: 371 km; Combined Driving Efficiency: 18.6kWh/100km.
