MG5 EV 2024 – Road trip report: Stafford to Winchester

Roger (at 87 years young) travelled from Stafford to outside Winchester and back in his MG5 EV Trophy Long Range 2024.

Introducing your road trip

Needed to attend a funeral in Kings Worthy, near Winchester, Hampshire. Could have had an overnight stay but more convenient to make it a day trip. Starting in Stafford, it would be a round trip of about 330 miles.

Planning & preparation

With a home charger it was easy to start with 100%. I’d decided the ABC strategy (‘Always Be Charging’) would be best. Using Zapmap I figured a stop after a couple of hours would be Banbury, estimated 10am arrival. Possible top-up was pencilled in at the new InstaVolt Superhub, north of Winchester. With a flexible return, I thought I’d plan it when I knew what my return start time would be.

Charging

First stop was InstaVolt, Banbury Stroud Park, only a couple of minutes off the M40, J11. Breakfast was taken etc. at 80% and the car was at 94% about 20 minutes later. As I was making good time, I decided to try the new Three Maids Hill, InstaVolt Superhub, just off the A34. Having travelled about 95 miles the InstaVolt charger initially started at 50kW+ but it soon dropped when the charge went over 80%. Both of these were paid using contactless, Banbury 85p/per kWh and Three Maids Hill was only 54p/per kWh (an introductory offer).

On my return, I encountered heavy traffic at Oxford so went into the Services and decided to top-up. I used a GRIDSERVE lower power charger (10kW) but it was still 85p/per kWh. I arrived home with 65% charge, plenty for the next day.

Although I’m on a low night-time tariff, I have solar too so charging is free during the day!!!!

Did you encounter any great driving roads on your road trip? If so, where were they and why were they great?

Nothing outstanding but going from north of Birmingham (M6) to the M40 using M5 south & the M42 is a better option as the M42 on the south/east of Birmingham is a nightmare.

The MG5 EV

I’ve always enjoyed my driving, even at the age of 87. I must admit that this car is impressive, so smooth and relaxing. The performance is taken for granted somewhat.

Road trip conclusion

Not everyone would want this type of trip but I relish them. The secret is, don’t get stressed by others, let them have the extra yard and let them arrive a few minutes before me!!