Burning Question - Does the MG ZS EV set a strong benchmark for a future sans fossil fuels?

I don’t think ‘EVs have arrived’, irrespective of how much the government is trying to push policies.

- Aadil Naik

I spent two weeks with the Hyundai Kona and realised there are a bunch of fundamental questions that still need to be answered. One thing’s for certain, though, manufacturers that are getting on the EV-train here are going down the ‘aspirational product’ route, instead of the ‘affordable’ one. I guess time will tell if it’s the right approach, but for now, we have a new entrant — the MG ZS EV. And it has its task cut out, from trying to be a good car first (EV or not) and then reducing all electric-associated anxieties.

On the face of it, the MG ZS EV isn’t visually radical. Sure, the prominent chrome grille looks cool, but the rest of the front is relatively smooth. The charging port hides under the large MG logo and is accessed by the panel swinging upwards and away from the car. Unfortunately, this is a design oversight, as in the open position it obstructs visibility to the port itself, making it a cumbersome affair trying to line up the charging cable without getting down on your knees.

The headlights are inspired by the London Eye, and if you look at it in just the right angle, you can see the resemblance. The 17-inch alloy wheels are modelled after windmills, keeping with the theme of sustainability and zero emissions. And there is a strong line along the length of the car ending in a haunch over the rear wheel. But what catches your eye is the huge sticker above the front wheel, proclaiming ‘electric’. MG wants to make sure absolutely no literate individual mistakes this for a gasoline-powered vehicle. With a sticker bigger than my palm, I think that box is well and truly checked. Does the MG ZS EV look uniquely electric? No. But it looks handsome and elegant, and I can live with that.