After receiving an overwhelming response for Hector, MG Motor is readying its second product launch in the Indian market. It will be an electric vehicle named MG eZS, which is based on ZS SUV (ICE) sold in Chinese market. This has now been spied by automotive enthusiast Krishnapalsinh Virpara.
MG ZS electric SUV will help the company to build upon Hector’s success and gain an upper hand in the emerging EV segment. As of now, the only other electric SUV in the Indian market is Hyundai Kona, which was launched in July 2019.
MG eZS was unveiled for the first time at 2018 Guangzhou Motor Show. Its exterior design is quite similar to that of ZS SUV, but it does not come with conventional radiator grille. Instead, it has an astral themed, chrome infused front grille that houses the charging socket. With a gentle push of the MG logo in the centre, a section of the front grille opens up to reveal the charging socket.
Other key highlights of MG eZS include sleek projector headlamps, LED DRLs, body cladding, faux silver coloured skid plates at front and rear, LED tail lamps, and aerodynamic alloy wheel design. eZS will have premium interiors, featuring leather seats and 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
MG eZS will also be offering internet connected smart features that are available with Hector. Powered by iSMART, the revolutionary technology allows users to access various features such as real-time vehicle tracking, voice assistant, emergency call, remote vehicle control, geo fencing, weather and traffic updates, navigation and vehicle diagnostics.
MG eZS is powered by a 44.5 kWh lithium ion battery connected to an electric motor that generates max power of 148 bhp and max torque of 350 Nm. eZS has a top speed of 140 kmph and can go from 0 to 100 kmph in 8.5 seconds. It can cover around 300 km on a single charge.
Production of eZS has already started at MG’s manufacturing plant in Halol, Gujarat. eZS will not be a volumes player like Hector, but MG expects good demand from a niche target market. eZS is expected to be priced around 2-3 lakh cheaper than Hyundai Kona, which can help boost sales. Kona currently retails at Rs 23.7 lakh. MG eZS customers can also benefit from subsidies available under government’s FAME-II policy.