Taajeer Group and MG Motor revealed its first-ever 100% electric vehicle for the Saudi market – the brand-new MG ZS EV – during the 41st Saudi International Motor Show held at Jeddah International Exhibition and Convention Center under the patronage of the advisor of the Governor of Makkah Region. The stylish, compact SUV is based on the popular Middle East seller, especially in the Saudi market, the MG ZS, and is the first all-electric car from the British-born brand. MG is prepared to embrace the New Energy Vehicle world, and has already showcased this through the overwhelming response and the successful introduction of the MG ZS EV in Europe and the UK, the brand is launching its first-ever 100 percent electric vehicle in the region. The new MG ZS EV is equipped with a single electric motor that drives the front wheels and delivers 148bhp and 350Nm of torque – accelerating the compact SUV from 0 – 100 km/h in just 8.2 seconds. The new EV can travel on a single battery charge of NEDC for 335 KM and is equipped with fast charging which allows up to 80 percent of the battery to be re-charged in just 40 minutes. Based on the popular 1.5L petrol version of the MG ZS SUV, the compact SUV has proved to be the perfect option for buyers looking for a stylish, well-equipped, reliable car with an affordable price tag. As part of MG's ambitious plans to become market leaders in New Energy Vehicles, the brand continues to undergo a rigorous development program to ensure its innovative vehicles are reliable and equipped to take on the sometimes-extreme weather conditions in the region. This summer the MG ZS EV was tested in the UAE during the hottest months of the year and concluded the program successfully, demonstrating that the company is ready to deliver electric vehicles in the in general, and in the Saudi market in particular. Tom Lee, Managing Director for MG Motor Middle East, said: "MG Motor Middle East is benefitting hugely from the brand's global commitment to remain at the forefront of new energy development. Now, as the region's major cities focus on becoming the smartest and most sustainable in the world, we can contribute to that vision of the future with our first-ever 100% electric vehicle." Eng. Hazm Jamjoom, COO of Taajeer Group, said: "The future of cars in the Kingdom is moving towards taking advantage of international technologies, especially in the field of electric vehicles production". He added: "Taajeer Group has started equipping infrastructure in collaboration with MG to be fully ready to participate in the future sustainable transport strategy and contribute to reducing dependence on conventional fuels and reducing environmental pollution. This will be a priority for our new 2020 strategy". He further said "statistics shows a significant progress in our sales since the MG brand was launched in the Kingdom, as it has increased from 4,700 Vehicles in 2018 to reach 10,000 Vehicles by the end of 2019. The statistics also indicated a high level of the brand awareness in 2018 and 2019 increased from 12% up to 51%, which means increased demand for branding to an advanced level of satisfaction among the local audience". He noted that "to date, we have 20 authorized distributors and partners throughout the Kingdom, which contribute greatly to provide our distinguished after-sales services and ensure spare parts availability". MG Motor is experiencing a strong expansion in the Saudi market through a full network of showrooms or authorized dealers in other major cities and the new ZS EV is now available for ordering through Taajeer Group's showrooms and the first vehicles will be delivered in January 2020. — SG
