Electric cars are now more affordable than ever. Chinese car maker MG has announced the new MG ZS EV will be priced at $48,990 drive-away.
This is actually cheaper than the $49,990 charged for the first 50 pre-orders.
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At the updated price the compact electric SUV severely undercuts other lower-priced electric vehicles such as the circa-$59,990 Hyundai Ioniq sedan and Nissan Leaf hatchback.
If that seems like a bargain, bear in mind it is about $15,000 more expensive than the most expensive petrol-powered ZS model.
MG guarantees the battery for eight years/160,000km, but the rest of the car is covered by a five-year/unlimited km warranty, which is two years shorter than the rest of the brand’s range.
Power comes from a 44.5kW battery and an electric motor making 105kW and 353Nm.
MG claims a driving range of 263km via the more stringent and real-world WLTP testing regime.
The battery can be replenished up to 80 per cent from empty in 40 minutes via a 50kWh DC charger. A 7kWh AC home charger will take about seven hours.
MG Australia boss, Peter Ciao, said, “We are making a commitment that each electric vehicle sold by MG locally will offer value that encourages mainstream adoption. MG wants to make zero-emission motoring add up for the first time for customers locally. An attainable electric vehicle is the first step in creating demand in the market which will lead to better infrastructure, something that MG Motor is a proud champion of.”
The ZS EV isn’t just about environmental credentials, it is also packed with safety and luxury features.
Families will appreciate the extensive safety suite, which includes auto emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, radar cruise control and reversing camera with parking sensors.
Connectivity is taken care of via an eight-inch touchscreen that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
A massive panoramic sunroof covering 90 per cent of the car’s roof adds a touch of luxury, as do faux leather seats and interior trim with contrast stitching, along with chrome highlights throughout the cabin.
- News.com.au