Low entry point for EV

MG has lowered this country’s entry point to new electric vehicles (EV) ownership with a sticker price of $55,990 for its first fully electric model. 

Deliveries of the ZS EV – an electric version of the compact SUV – are set to begin in November.

In place of the 1.5 and one-litre turbo engines powering conventional models, the ZS EV has a 44.5kWh, water-cooled, lithium‐ion battery and synchronous electric motor. It achieves a driving range of up to 262km using the WLTP combined cycle test.

MG Motor NZ has set a slightly lower range expectation of 250km based on real-world testing, conducted in urban traffic in Auckland excluding motorways.

With AC on and driver and passenger, MG achieved more than 250km on one charge, which was calculated including range to empty of 30km.

The electric powertrain develops 105kW with 353Nm of torque for a 0-100kph time of 8.5 seconds.

There are three levels of kinetic-energy recovery and three driving modes so owners can adapt to their driving needs and levels of energy conservation.

Charging is via CCS and type-two ports on the front grille and the vehicle comes with a 7kW on-board charger. The ZS EV can also be rapid-charged to 80 per cent in 40 minutes using a 50kW rapid-charging point.

In New Zealand, MG have partnered with TransNet to supply and install the optional Wallbox range of home chargers, which can fully charge the battery in seven hours.

Anthony MacLean, business manager of MG Motor NZ, says: “Kiwis love SUVs and so it’s important to offer an affordable SUV that is also electric.”