MG ZS EV Exclusive 2020 Owner Review

Steve Durham drives an MG ZS EV Exclusive 42.5kWh 2020, standard specification.

This is Steve’s first electric car, he’s owned the MG ZS EV 3-4 years and drives under 5,000 miles annually. The current mileage of the car is between 20,000-30,000 miles and he achieves 120 miles from an 80% charge.

Why did you choose the MG ZS EV?

I was introduced to EVs when I was given a brand new MG5 as a courtesy car when my ICE hot hatch was in for repair. I had the MG5 for a month and enjoyed the EV experience. I then decided a 3-year old MG ZS EV would be my next car!

Positives

I love the relaxed drive/ride
the tech included
spacious boot
home charging is cost effective and efficient.

Negatives

From the outset I knew the range was limited although it is adequate for 90% of our journeys, charging at home. The range is an issue requiring frequent charging on public networks. I find I need to plan journeys carefully, using Zapmap as a route planner and payment method.
using the public charging network is expensive and patchy at best.

Compared to when you first bought the car, does your battery still charge at the same rate & do you still get the same range?

No, at 100% I used to get around 150 miles range, I now get 130-140 miles. Due to the low range I need to charge to 100% to get adequate range.

Have you experienced any faults with the car? If so, what have they been?

There have been no faults during my ownership of the car.

What are the standout technological features of the car?

The cruise control is effective & convenient, the blind spot detection is also invaluable. The automatic headlights are great, and work effectively dipping from main beam quickly when oncoming traffic is in view. Lane and speed detection systems are also very good. The sat nav is simple and accurate, predicting arrival times accurately.

Tell us something people wouldn’t readily know about your MG ZS EV

I think the nature of the electric powertrain, though widely known, always impresses due to 100% torque characteristics.

What’s the biggest or funniest myth you’ve heard about EVs?

Perceived safety issues primarily when charging in the rain and fire concerns.

What electric car(s) are you interested in next and why?

I am currently upgrading to a Renault Megane E-Tech. My positive ownership experience with the MG has convinced me a longer range EV is its perfect replacement. Also, my wife now also drives a Citroën ë-C3 which is a perfect 2nd/city car.

Electricity supplier & tariff

Octopus Go

What public charging networks would you recommend to others and why?

Generally I use any convenient network identified using Zapmap and prioritised by Zapmap pay availability.

Insurance

Tesco Insurance – I have found insuring an EV slightly more costly than insuring an ICE hot hatch, but have been pleasantly surprised by an insurance reduction changing from the MG to the Renault.

Please itemise where you’re saving money (or not) owning & running an MG ZS EV

Reduced fuel costs are the primary benefit and servicing, on the whole, is cheaper. Initially the £0 road fund licence was great, but the introduction of the flat £195 tariff & £600 luxury car tax is a disappointment.