The Durability of Earlier Electric Vehicles

The mainstream adoption of electric vehicles has levelled the technological playing field. Automotive stalwarts had no choice but to respond to the threat of upstart companies, as they R&D their way into clawing back some of that market share.

In fact, it is this electric tit-for-tat that we are seeing what could possibly be the most the car has evolved ever since its inception more than 100 years ago. The current crop of even the most mass-market of electric cars would be able to achieve around 300 kilometres on a single charge.

This is the result of manufacturers chasing not only greater levels of energy density from their battery packs, but also more efficiency from their electric motors. Which then begs the question – can Singapore’s current oldest EV in consecutive sale (originally launched in early 2021) remain relevant in an ultra competitive segment?

We embark on a fact-finding mission to find out.

But First, What is an MG 5?

It was the first proper electric station wagon that you could buy at the time of its launch. Whilst manufacturers are now progressively moving onto building EVs on bespoke platforms, the MG 5 has been manufactured on an extensively adapted ICE platform.

These alterations have proven to be extremely effective, as the overall packaging is almost as good as any other present day EV. Our test car is the Exclusive variant. Its 61.1 kWh battery pack is stowed underneath the floor, and supplies the front-mounted 154 bhp electric motor with current. A more affordable Excite base model is also available, with a smaller 50.3 kWh battery and 161 bhp.

It comfortably sits five, though the high floor level can be uncomfortable for those with longer lower limbs. The cargo compartment measures out at an impressive 495 litres, which is significantly larger than some of its closest competitors.

And the good news continues. MG appears to have understated the MG5’s actual efficiency and range estimates. Officially, homologated figures show the car should be 17.5 kWh/100km, good for 403 kilometres of range on a full charge. We achieved 13.8 kWh/100km, which works out to be around 450 kilometres if we completely drained its 61.1 kWh battery pack.

But it is not all Good News

Modern, ground-up EVs are better able to regulate their mass on the go. Which means manufacturers can fit them with softer springs, improving their overall ride quality. Being an older car, it has not yet had the benefit of this additional R&D.

Another dead giveaway of its vintage is in the cabin. Overall build quality is decent, and we can’t even complain about any of the materials used here. But there’s no escaping from the fact that the infotainment screen looks extremely dated, and its antiquated graphics and laginess really detracts from the user experience as a whole.

Thankfully, these are issues that have already been fixed in an upcoming refresh.

For now though, the MG5 EV is still a thoroughly capable vehicle that has mechanical gubbins that were ahead of its time. Think about it – how many comparable EVs can do the range it can?

Its closest rivals appear to be giving up range for added luxuries. This is something that perhaps may not be of concern for MG5 EV buyers. These are the buyers that are looking for an affordable, reliable and nondescript car. One that shuttles you from Point A to Point B without fuss or fanfare.

It remains a well-priced, honest-to-god option. And it is the ideal option for those wanting to go electric, minus the complex digital screens most new EVs seem to come with!