Cheaper, shorter-range MG ZS EV launched in the UK

MG has launched a Standard Range version of its ever-popular MG ZS EV. Hot on the heels of the refreshed and restyled Long Range car, the MG ZS EV Standard Range gets a slightly smaller battery and a smaller price tag to go with it.
 

Until now, the only version of the refreshed MG ZS EV you could buy came with a 72kWh battery pack and cost from £28,495. Whilst this represents very good value for money for an EV capable of up to 273 miles on the WLTP cycle, a cheaper version with a smaller battery was always on the cards from a manufacturer that prides itself on value and accessibility to tech.

Powertrain changes

The only significant change on the MG ZS EV Standard Range compared to the Long Range car is the battery size. It gets a 51.1kWh unit – 6.6kWh more than the previous car’s 44.5kWh. This offers a WLTP combined range of up to 198 miles, which is 35 more than the outgoing car.

It can be charged at up to 100kW meaning 10 per cent to 80 per cent takes just 36 minutes in ideal conditions. This is a higher input power than the Long Range car which maxes out at 76kW. The motor, which drives the front wheels, is the same as that in the Long Range car but actually produces more power in the Standard Range car thanks to differences in the power management. Just shy of 175bhp is now on offer, putting it right in the middle of the ball park when compared to equivalent electric SUVs.

Trim levels and cost

MG is offering the ZS EV Standard Range in the same three trim levels as the Long Range car – SE, Trophy and Trophy Connect. All versions come with an updated infotainment system – MG iSMART – which connects via a smartphone app and allows remote control of various car functions.

A new 10.1 inch touchscreen is available, which is backed up by a digital instrument cluster. Higher spec cars come with touches such as a wireless phone charger.

Regardless of what trim level customers opt for, they will benefit from the plug-in car grant as all models sit below the £32,000 price cap, with £2000 knocked off the price compared to the Long Range cars. As such, the MG ZS EV Standard Range is priced from £27,495 after the grant is applied.

MG Motor UK Commercial Director, Guy Pigounakis, said: “The Plug-in Car Grant may have been reduced, but MGs commitment to delivering great value, world class EVs certainly hasn’t – the ZS EV offers unrivalled specification, range and performance for the money.”

If you want to get your hands on a Standard Range MG ZS EV, they’re available to order right now, with the first cars expected to be delivered before the end of February.