MG ZS EV Launched - Battery Specification Explained
Published On 11-Mar-2022 16:37:12
The facelifted version now comes with a more powerful battery pack offering additional power and range, as compared to the earlier model.
MG Motors has finally launched the updated version of the ZS EV SUV, which was long-awaited. The new ZS EV will now be available in the price range of INR 21.99 lakh – INR 25.88 lakh (ex-showroom). So far, the ZS EV has been quite successful in the Indian market, and the new version will help it get an upper hand over Tata Nexon EV.
The car comes with several cosmetic and feature updates, but the key highlight this time around is the updated battery pack, which has increased both the power and range of this vehicle.
Exterior updates
Talking about the exterior changes, the India-spec model is quite reminiscent of the international version, which was publicly revealed in October 2021. The ZS EV now looks more like the sibling Astor with slender LED headlights, new LED DRLs, and LED taillights at the back.
However, the SUV gets unique touches with updated front bumpers and a new body-coloured front section, which has been blanked off, replacing the signature grille. The USB charging point has now been moved to the side in the same grille area.
The car now comes with new stylish 17-inch tomahawk hub alloy wheels providing it with a distinctive look on the road. The new ZS EV can be availed in four elegant colour options, including Currant Red, Ferris White, Sable Black and Ashen Silver.
Interior Updates
The interiors have been revamped, with a few cosmetic updates, including revised faux carbon fibre finishing around the dashboard and revised climate control switches. In terms of equipment, the ZS EV now gets an updated 10.1inch touchscreen infotainment unit, replacing the 8-inch unit of the earlier model, and a new 7-inch digital instrument cluster. Other comfort and convenience features include a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, updated i-Smart connected car tech, and a digital Bluetooth key.
Safety Updates
The safety has also been updated with a 360-degree camera onboard and a rear-drive assist package that includes blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert and lane change assist. Apart from this, the car continues to feature ABS with EBD, six airbags, a tyre pressure monitoring system and hill descent control.
Battery Specification – More Power and Extended Range
The biggest talking point of the facelifted ZS EV is the upgraded battery under the hood. The earlier 44.5kWh battery has been replaced with a new 50.3kWh battery pack. The automaker claims that the new battery now offers a range (as per ICAT) of 461 kms, as against the previous 419kms, a 42kms hike.
However, the real-world range of the car is yet to be tested, but it would be certainly up from the earlier model, which managed to offer around 310-320kms in mixed driving conditions.
The battery can be completely charged in 8.5-9 hours using an AC fast charger, while 80 percent charging can be done within 60 minutes via DC fast charger. The battery comes with ASIL-D, IP69K and ULUL2580 safety certifications, which makes it more robust and durable in various weather conditions in India.
The new battery produces 176PS and 353Nm torque, which is a 33PS jump over the previous model. The battery lets the car sprint from 0-100kmph in just 8.5 seconds. There are three different driving modes, namely Eco, Normal and Sport, provided for personalized driving. The ECO mode helps maximize battery range, the Normal focus on balanced driving, while the Sport mode will offer exhilarated driving experience.
Old ZS EV |
New ZS EV |
|
Battery |
44.5kWh |
50.3kWh |
Power |
143PS/353Nm |
176PS/353Nm |
Range |
419kms |
461kms |
2022 MG ZS EV vs Rivals
The upgraded battery will be the focal point of rivalry against the Tata Nexon EV and the upcoming facelifted Hyundai Kona Electric SUV. Though the ZS EV is more premium than the Tata Nexon EV, it would be interesting to see the performance of the latter when it is upgraded to a larger battery soon. As of now, the carmaker claims that Nexon EV offers a 312kms range on a single charge, while the real-world mileage is about 170-180kms.
However, it’s the price that could play a crucial role in the decision. Currently, the new ZS EV is the most expensive mass-market EV in the country, while Tata Nexon is available in the price range of INR 14.29 - 16.90 Lakh (ex-showroom). Hyundai Kona is presently available in the price range of Hyundai Kona Electric INR 23.79 - 23.97 Lakh (ex-showroom), however, the facelifted version is expected to surpass the price range of 2022 ZS EV.
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