SAIC Motor Philippines, Inc. (SMP) has officially taken over the distributorship of MG Philippines and is looking to bring in three new electric vehicle (EV) models by the 4th quarter of 2023.

The takeover means that MG will be officially a Chinese-operated brand in the country as part of the international organization of SAIC Motors.

Concerning the upcoming EV models, the Chinese automaker confirmed at its coming out party last July 19, 2023, that these would be the MG Marvel R, the MG4 EV, and the MG ZS EV.

We will focus on the MG ZS EV as the country's regular gasoline model already exists. These specifications are those available from other countries, as SAIC Motor Philippines, has yet to reveal the EV's official spec list and pricing.

Also read: About last night: Why SAIC Motor Philippines' arrival is a big thing in the industry

ZS-T Styling

The new MG ZS EV resembles the locally available MG ZS-T. It is because, under TCCCI, the MG ZS was sold both in its pre-facelifted and facelifted models under the guise of the ZS and the ZS-T. The former is the older version of the crossover, while the latter is its newer version.

It means the upcoming MG ZS EV will look more like the MG ZS-T, just with a different grille, bumpers, and set of wheels. However, the body shape will remain essentially the same, with a couple of updates to the crossover interior.

A different infotainment system

Regarding interior differences, the MG ZS EV has various features that make the cabin feel comfortable, convenient, and relaxing. The EV, at least for the European market, has a 10.1-inch infotainment as standard that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite navigation. It also has a different operation system skin than locally available in the Philippines.

Aside from what was mentioned above, the MG ZS EV has an immersive 3D sound 6-speaker sound system, a wireless charger, and three USB ports so everyone on board can simultaneously charge their devices. 

It also has access to the MG iSMART app, which lets you remotely start the vehicle, activate the climate control system to cool or heat the car, and schedule when to charge the battery.

However, take these specs with a grain of salt, as MG Philippines may tweak these European specifications just a bit to suit the local market better.

Estimated 400 to 440km range

The MG ZS EV also comes with a decent amount of range. Depending on the variant they bring in, it can drive around 428 to 439 kilometers on a single charge based on specifications available for the EV in Europe.

However, based on the specifications of the EV for the Thailand market, it can do around 403 kilometers on a single charge thanks to its 50.3 kWh battery pack. In the UK, the long-range version with a 72.6kWh water-cooled lithium-ion battery is the one that can do 439 kilometers (WLTP).

So basically, it outdoes the likes of the Nissan LEAF, which only has a range of around 250 to 300 kilometers. 

Quick on the draw

The MG ZS EV is quick as the crossover can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph between 8 to 8.6 seconds, depending on the variant that enters the Philippines. MG may bring in the Trophy version with 177 PS and 280 Nm of torque or the longer-range model with 156 PS but the exact torque figures.

Regardless of what version MG Philippines brings, the ZS EV will be a performer and can compete with other turbocharged models, at least in performance. 

Fast charging available

According to the MG ZS EV specifications for the European market, the EV can charge from 0% to 100% in 8 hours with a 7kW fast charger. Charging times decrease if you use a 50kW rapid charger, which can get from 0 to 80% in just 54 minutes. Using a 100kW charger, the MG EV can go from 0% to 80% in 36 minutes.

However, if you use the included 3.3kW charger and a standard wall socket, your charging times will be closer to around 16 hours.

If priced right, do you think the MG ZS EV is the electric vehicle that could make you ditch internal combustion engines?

Did you like our story? Could you make sure to give it a rating if you do?