MG Electric Car Price in India 2020 Latest Updates and Deals

The MG ZS EV emerged as a game-changer in India’s electric vehicle market in 2020, priced competitively starting at ₹20.88 lakh (ex-showroom). With government subsidies and attractive financing deals, MG made electric mobility more accessible, offering a feature-rich SUV with a 340 km range on a single charge. Buyers also enjoyed benefits like free home charging installation and reduced road tax across states.

Key Takeaways

• Competitive pricing: MG ZS EV starts at ₹20.88 lakh (ex-showroom) in 2020.
• Government subsidies: Avail up to ₹1.5 lakh FAME II benefits on purchase.
• Low running costs: Saves ₹1 per km compared to petrol/diesel vehicles.
• Long-range battery: 44.5 kWh battery delivers 340 km on a full charge.
• Home charging: Free 7.4 kW AC charger with installation support included.
• Limited-time deals: Check for 2020 festive discounts and exchange bonuses.
• Pan-India service: Access 170+ service centers for hassle-free ownership.

Introduction: The Rise of Electric Mobility in India

The Indian automotive landscape underwent a significant transformation in 2020, with electric vehicles (EVs) emerging as a viable and eco-conscious alternative to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. Among the pioneers in this shift was MG Motor India, a subsidiary of the historic British marque now owned by China’s SAIC Motor. MG entered the Indian EV market with the MG ZS EV, marking its first fully electric offering and setting the stage for a new era of sustainable mobility. As fuel prices fluctuated and environmental concerns grew, more Indian consumers began to consider electric cars—not just for their green credentials, but also for long-term cost savings, lower maintenance, and government-backed incentives.

In 2020, the MG electric car price in India became a hot topic among urban professionals, environmentally conscious families, and tech-savvy early adopters. The MG ZS EV was positioned as a premium yet accessible electric SUV, offering a compelling mix of range, features, and brand trust. With the Indian government pushing for 30% electric vehicle penetration by 2030 through the FAME II (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) scheme, MG leveraged this momentum with strategic pricing, attractive financing options, and exclusive launch deals. This blog post delves into the latest updates, pricing structures, available variants, and special offers on the MG ZS EV in 2020, providing a comprehensive guide for anyone considering an electric car in India.

Overview of MG ZS EV: India’s First Mainstream Electric SUV

Design and Features

The MG ZS EV is a 5-seater electric SUV that combines modern aesthetics with practical functionality. Its exterior design features a bold front grille (with a charging port integrated into the MG badge), LED headlights, and a sleek silhouette that gives it a premium SUV appeal. The interior is equally impressive, with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, and a fully digital instrument cluster.

What sets the ZS EV apart is its focus on connectivity. MG’s iSMART Next-Gen technology allows owners to remotely control functions such as climate pre-conditioning, battery charging status, and geofencing via a smartphone app. This feature was particularly appealing in 2020, as Indian consumers increasingly valued smart integration and digital convenience in their vehicles.

Performance and Range

Under the hood (or rather, under the floor), the MG ZS EV is powered by a 44.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack paired with a permanent magnet synchronous motor that delivers 143 PS of power and 353 Nm of torque. This setup enables a 0–100 km/h sprint in just 8.5 seconds—impressive for an SUV of its size. The car offers a claimed range of 428 km (ARAI-certified) on a single charge, which was among the best in the Indian EV market at the time.

Real-world testing by Indian reviewers and early adopters showed a practical range of 300–350 km under mixed driving conditions (city and highway), depending on driving style, terrain, and use of climate control. For most urban commuters and weekend travelers, this range proved sufficient, especially with the growing network of charging stations in metros like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Pune.

Charging Infrastructure and Options

MG addressed one of the biggest concerns about EVs—charging—by offering multiple solutions:

• Home Charging: A 7.4 kW AC wall box charger was provided free with every purchase, enabling a full charge in about 6–8 hours.
• DC Fast Charging: Compatible with 50 kW DC fast chargers, the ZS EV could recharge from 0–80% in just 50 minutes, ideal for long-distance travel or quick top-ups.
• Public Charging Network: MG partnered with companies like Fortum and Tata Power to install fast-charging stations at key locations, including highways, malls, and MG showrooms.

Additionally, MG offered a portable emergency charger that could be plugged into a standard 15A socket, providing a slow charge (10–15 km per hour) in case of emergencies.

MG Electric Car Price in India 2020: Variants and On-Road Costs

Ex-Showroom Prices and Variants

In 2020, the MG ZS EV was available in two well-equipped variants:

• Excite: The base variant, priced at ₹20.88 lakh (ex-showroom), included essential features like LED DRLs, touchscreen infotainment, iSMART connectivity, and a 7-inch digital cluster.
• Exclusive: The top-end variant, priced at ₹23.58 lakh (ex-showroom), added features such as a panoramic sunroof, leatherette seats, 6-airbags, 360-degree camera, and adaptive cruise control.

These prices were significantly lower than imported EVs like the Tesla Model 3 (not officially launched in India yet) and even undercut some hybrid SUVs, making the ZS EV a value-for-money proposition in the premium electric segment.

On-Road Price Breakdown (Example: Delhi, 2020)

The final on-road price of the MG ZS EV varied by state due to differences in road tax, registration fees, and insurance. Below is a detailed breakdown for Delhi (NCR region) as of Q3 2020:

Component	Excite Variant (₹)	Exclusive Variant (₹)
Ex-Showroom Price	20,88,000	23,58,000
Road Tax (Delhi: 0% for EVs)	0	0
Registration Fees	600	600
Insurance (Comprehensive, 1st Year)	75,000	82,000
Handling & Delivery Charges	10,000	10,000
On-Road Price (Delhi)	21,73,600	24,50,600

Note: Road tax exemption under Delhi’s EV Policy (2019) significantly reduced the on-road cost. In states like Maharashtra (6% road tax) or Karnataka (12% road tax), the final price could be ₹1.2–2.8 lakh higher.

Price Comparison with Competitors (2020)

When compared to other EVs available in India in 2020, the MG ZS EV stood out:

• Hyundai Kona Electric: ₹23.71–25.81 lakh (ex-showroom) – higher priced with a similar range (452 km).
• Tata Nexon EV: ₹13.99–16.25 lakh (ex-showroom) – more affordable but smaller (30.2 kWh battery, 312 km range).
• Mahindra eKUV100: ₹8.25 lakh (expected) – compact and cheaper, but not yet launched.

The MG ZS EV struck a balance between affordability, premium features, and range, making it a top choice for buyers seeking a full-size electric SUV without the premium of imported models.

Government Incentives and Subsidies: How to Save More

FAME II Subsidy (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of EVs)

One of the most significant factors affecting the MG electric car price in India 2020 was the FAME II subsidy. Under this scheme, electric vehicles with a battery capacity above 10 kWh were eligible for a subsidy of ₹1.5 lakh per vehicle. The MG ZS EV, with its 44.5 kWh battery, qualified fully for this benefit.

The subsidy was applied directly by the manufacturer, meaning customers paid the reduced ex-showroom price. For example:

• MG ZS EV Excite: ₹20.88 lakh (after subsidy) (original price before subsidy: ₹22.38 lakh)
• MG ZS EV Exclusive: ₹23.58 lakh (after subsidy) (original price before subsidy: ₹25.08 lakh)

This made the ZS EV one of the most subsidized EVs in its class, enhancing its affordability.

State-Level Incentives

Beyond the central FAME II scheme, several states offered additional benefits:

• Delhi: 100% road tax and registration fee waiver, ₹10,000 incentive for scrapping old vehicles, and free parking at public places.
• Maharashtra: 6% road tax (instead of 12%), ₹1 lakh scrapping incentive, and subsidies for private charging stations.
• Karnataka: 12% road tax (higher than others), but offered ₹50,000 subsidy on EV purchase and free charging at BESCOM stations for 3 years.
• Telangana: No road tax for EVs, and ₹10,000 subsidy per vehicle.

Tip: Buyers were advised to research state-specific policies before purchasing, as savings could amount to ₹1–3 lakh depending on location.

Corporate and Fleet Discounts

MG also offered special pricing for corporate buyers and fleet operators:

• Corporate Discount: Up to ₹25,000 off for employees of registered companies (via tie-ups with MG).
• Fleet Leasing: Monthly leasing options starting at ₹45,000 (inclusive of maintenance, insurance, and charging), ideal for ride-hailing services and delivery companies.

These programs helped expand the ZS EV’s appeal beyond individual buyers to institutional users, further driving adoption.

Latest Deals and Offers (2020 Launch Promotions)

Launch Discounts and Early Bird Benefits

To celebrate the ZS EV’s launch in India (launched in January 2020), MG rolled out a series of time-bound offers:

• Free Wall Box Charger: Valued at ₹1.2 lakh, this was provided at no extra cost to all buyers.
• Free 5-Year Maintenance: Covered routine servicing, brake pad replacement, and battery health checks.
• ₹1 Lakh Cashback: For customers who booked before March 31, 2020.
• Free Public Charging for 1 Year: Up to 500 units at MG-affiliated stations.

These offers significantly lowered the total cost of ownership, making the ZS EV more attractive than ICE SUVs with higher fuel and maintenance expenses.

Financing and EMI Options

MG partnered with banks and financial institutions to offer competitive loan packages:

• Loan Tenure: Up to 8 years.
• Interest Rates: Starting at 7.99% p.a. (lower than standard car loans due to EV incentives).
• EMI Example: For the Excite variant (on-road ₹21.74 lakh), a 7-year loan at 7.99% resulted in an EMI of ₹31,500/month.
• Down Payment: As low as 10%, with some banks offering 0% processing fees.

Additionally, MG introduced a buyback guarantee after 3 years (up to 60% of ex-showroom price), reducing buyer anxiety about resale value.

Exchange and Loyalty Bonuses

MG encouraged ICE car owners to switch to electric:

• Exchange Bonus: Up to ₹50,000 extra for exchanging an old MG vehicle.
• Referral Program: ₹10,000 cashback for referring a friend who buys a ZS EV.

These incentives helped MG build a loyal customer base and accelerate EV adoption in India.

Ownership Experience: Real-World Insights and Tips

Cost of Ownership vs. ICE SUVs

One of the biggest advantages of the MG ZS EV was its low running cost:

• Electricity Cost: At ₹8/unit, a full charge cost ₹356 (44.5 kWh × ₹8). At 350 km range, this equates to ₹1.02/km.
• Petrol SUV Comparison: A petrol SUV with 15 kmpl and ₹100/liter fuel costs ₹6.67/km—over 6x more per km.
• Maintenance: EVs have fewer moving parts. Annual maintenance cost for ZS EV: ₹10,000–15,000 vs. ₹25,000–40,000 for ICE SUVs.

Over 5 years and 75,000 km, the ZS EV could save owners ₹3–4 lakh in fuel and maintenance alone.

Charging Tips for New Owners

To maximize battery life and convenience:

• Charge to 80–90% for daily use; reserve 100% for long trips.
• Use fast charging sparingly (every 10–15 charges) to reduce battery degradation.
• Pre-condition the battery using the app before driving in extreme temperatures.
• Install the home charger on a dedicated circuit to avoid overloading.

Resale Value and Market Perception

In 2020, the ZS EV held strong resale value due to high demand and limited supply. MG’s buyback program and 8-year/150,000 km battery warranty (covering 70% capacity) boosted consumer confidence. Used ZS EVs in metro cities were reselling at 75–80% of original price after 2 years—better than most ICE SUVs.

Conclusion: Is the MG ZS EV Worth It in 2020?

The MG electric car price in India 2020 reflected a strategic entry into a market poised for electric transformation. With the MG ZS EV, the company delivered a compelling package: a spacious, feature-rich electric SUV with a competitive price tag, backed by generous government subsidies, state-level incentives, and exclusive launch deals. At ₹20.88–23.58 lakh (after FAME II), it undercut rivals like the Hyundai Kona while offering a longer list of premium features than budget EVs like the Tata Nexon.

For Indian consumers, the ZS EV wasn’t just about going green—it was about smart financial planning. With minimal running costs, low maintenance, and long-term savings, the total cost of ownership was far lower than comparable ICE SUVs. Add in the convenience of home charging, expanding public infrastructure, and MG’s robust support ecosystem (iSMART, free maintenance, buyback), and the decision became even more compelling.

While challenges like range anxiety and charging infrastructure gaps persisted in 2020, MG’s proactive approach—partnering with charging networks, offering free wall boxes, and launching awareness campaigns—helped ease the transition. For urban families, eco-conscious professionals, and forward-thinking fleet operators, the MG ZS EV was not just a car; it was a statement of intent toward a sustainable future.

As India continues its journey toward electrification, the 2020 MG ZS EV stands as a milestone—proof that premium electric mobility can be both affordable and desirable. Whether you were looking for your first EV or upgrading from a petrol SUV, the MG ZS EV in 2020 offered unmatched value, performance, and peace of mind. With prices, deals, and incentives aligned to make the switch easier than ever, there’s never been a better time to go electric with MG.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the starting price of the MG electric car in India in 2020?

The MG ZS EV, the brand’s first electric SUV in India, started at ₹20.88 lakh (ex-showroom) in 2020. This competitive pricing positioned it as a premium yet accessible EV option in the Indian market.

Which MG electric car was launched in India in 2020?

MG Motor India launched the MG ZS EV as its first electric vehicle in 2020. It was a 5-seater SUV with a 44.5 kWh battery pack and a claimed range of 340 km on a single charge.

Did the MG ZS EV price in India 2020 include subsidies?

The ex-showroom price of the MG ZS EV reflected standard rates, but buyers could avail additional state-level EV subsidies. Final on-road prices varied depending on local incentives and registration charges.

What were the variants and their prices for the MG electric car in 2020?

The MG ZS EV was offered in two variants: Excite (₹20.88 lakh) and Exclusive (₹23.58 lakh), both ex-showroom. The higher variant added features like a powered tailgate, panoramic sunroof, and advanced safety tech.

Were there any special deals on MG electric cars in India during 2020?

Yes, MG offered limited-time benefits like free charging wall boxes, low-interest EMI schemes, and loyalty bonuses. These deals aimed to boost EV adoption and ease the transition for first-time electric car buyers.

How did the MG electric car price in India 2020 compare to rivals?

The MG ZS EV was priced higher than the Tata Nexon EV but undercut the Hyundai Kona Electric. Its premium positioning justified the cost with longer range, larger dimensions, and a more upscale interior.