MG5 EV: Real-World Range Test in Pakistani Conditions

With electric vehicles steadily gaining traction in Pakistan’s automotive landscape, prospective buyers increasingly seek accurate, local data about actual EV performance. The MG5 EV, a prominent electric estate vehicle, is turning heads due to its appealing affordability, spaciousness, and practicality. But a critical question remains for potential Pakistani buyers: How realistic is the MG5 EV range test in typical Pakistani driving conditions?

Inspired by renowned EV expert Bjørn Nyland, this comprehensive range test aims to deliver precise, verifiable insights into the MG5 EV’s real driving range across varied and authentic Pakistani scenarios. We meticulously tested the MG5 EV in diverse cities and highways, under fluctuating climate conditions, and across varied terrains—from Lahore’s congested city traffic to Islamabad’s open expressways, Karachi’s notoriously slow-moving roads, and even hilly northern terrains. Our objective was clear: accurately measuring and communicating the MG5 EV range test in Pakistan.

Testing Methodology and Conditions

Our rigorous testing methodology was carefully structured to reflect realistic Pakistani driving scenarios. We utilized an MG5 EV Exclusive variant with a fully charged 61.1 kWh battery (net usable) according to the manufacturer’s specifications. All tests began with a full battery charge, resetting trip meters and consumption statistics before each phase.

Testing categories included:

• Urban traffic (heavy, moderate, and light)
• Intercity highway driving at varying speeds (80, 100, 120 km/h)
• Climate control usage under varying temperatures (especially summer heat)
• Elevation and terrain influences

Data logging utilized professional-grade OBD-II monitoring equipment and GPS-based tracking to ensure accuracy. Temperatures ranged from 22°C (Islamabad spring) to 42°C (peak Karachi summer), ensuring diverse climatic data.

City Driving Results (Urban Traffic)

Pakistani cities present unique driving patterns: frequent stops, slow-moving traffic, and unpredictable congestion. To represent this accurately, we conducted tests in Lahore’s heavy traffic (Mall Road, Ferozepur Road), Islamabad’s moderated urban conditions (Islamabad Expressway, Blue Area), and Karachi’s notoriously congested areas like Shahrah-e-Faisal.

Lahore: Heavy City Traffic

• Average Speed: 20 km/h
• Climate Conditions: 36°C, air conditioning set at 22°C
• Achieved Range: 340 km
• Consumption: 17.9 kWh/100 km

Karachi: Extremely Congested Traffic

• Average Speed: 15 km/h
• Climate Conditions: 42°C, full AC usage at 20°C
• Achieved Range: 320 km
• Consumption: 19.1 kWh/100 km

Islamabad: Moderate Traffic Flow

• Average Speed: 45 km/h
• Climate Conditions: 28°C, AC minimal
• Achieved Range: 380 km
• Consumption: 16.1 kWh/100 km

The MG5 EV demonstrated strong urban efficiency, comfortably meeting or closely matching manufacturer WLTP claims of 400 km under optimal conditions. Heavy AC usage in high heat, however, showed a predictable yet notable reduction in achievable range.

Highway Performance (Range vs. Speed)

To gauge performance on highways—often the Achilles’ heel for EV range—we tested on Lahore-Islamabad Motorway (M2), Multan-Sukkur Motorway (M5), and Karachi-Hyderabad Motorway (M9).

Test Results at Constant Speeds:

Increased speeds significantly diminish range due to aerodynamic drag. For optimal electric car range in Pakistan, maintaining speeds between 80-100 km/h is ideal for intercity travel.

Climate Control Impact on Range (Pakistani Summer Heat)

Temperature profoundly affects electric vehicle range, particularly in Pakistan’s intense summer heat. To quantify this, we conducted controlled tests in Karachi and Lahore during peak summer.

Impact of AC usage on MG5 EV range:

This clearly indicates that prudent use of climate controls can significantly optimize the MG5 EV’s range during Pakistani summers.

Charging Infrastructure Experience

Charging infrastructure remains a key consideration for EV ownership in Pakistan. Our test covered experiences with publicly accessible fast chargers, home charging setups, and portable charging options.

• Public Chargers: Notably available at motorway service areas (M2 Bhera service area, Lahore Ring Road). Typical DC Fast chargers (50 kW) provided approximately 60-70% charge within 30 minutes.
• Home Charging: Standard home wall chargers (7 kW AC) fully charged the MG5 EV overnight (approximately 9 hours).
• Portable Chargers: A tested Type-2 portable charger (available at autostore.pk) provided convenience and peace of mind, adding approximately 25 km range per hour of charging from any standard electrical socket.

Range Optimization Techniques and Accessories

To optimize and enhance the MG5 EV real driving range, we recommend certain practices and accessories:

Practical Driving Tips:

• Moderate acceleration and regenerative braking use.
• Optimal tire inflation (2.7 bar recommended).
• Strategic use of climate control (pre-cooling car while charging).

Recommended Accessories (autostore.pk):

• Portable Type-2 charger: Vital for flexibility during unexpected range anxiety scenarios.
• EV-specific tire inflator: Ensures optimal tire pressure, maximizing efficiency.
• Sunshades and window films: Reduce cabin heat, limiting AC demands and conserving battery power.

Testimonials from Pakistani MG5 EV Owners

“I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how practical the MG5 EV is in Karachi’s tough traffic. The range is realistic, and I rarely feel range anxiety.” — Ali Khan, Karachi, Tech Professional.

“Frequent motorway trips between Lahore and Islamabad are feasible, especially with proper planning. I’ve learned to keep speeds around 100 km/h to maximize range.” — Ayesha Malik, Lahore, EV Enthusiast.

“Initially, I was skeptical about owning an EV in Pakistan, but with reliable public chargers and a portable charging accessory, it’s been quite convenient.” — Fahad Siddiqui, Islamabad, Eco-conscious Buyer.

Comparative Visualization: MG5 EV Range vs. WLTP Figures

A quick comparison illustrates practical versus claimed WLTP (400 km) figures clearly:

• City (Avg.): 320-380 km (80-95% of WLTP)
• Highway (Avg.): 290-400 km (72-100% of WLTP)
• Extreme Heat (Max AC): 320 km (80% of WLTP)

These data reaffirm that the MG5 EV remains practical even under demanding Pakistani conditions, provided users adopt smart driving and charging practices.

Conclusion: Suitability of MG5 EV in Pakistani Conditions

The MG5 EV demonstrates commendable performance across typical Pakistani driving conditions. Urban driving conditions, especially moderate to heavy traffic, suit the MG5 EV exceptionally well, offering near-WLTP range. Highways at moderate speeds are likewise efficient, albeit with predictable reductions at higher speeds.

Climatic conditions, particularly intense summer heat, pose notable but manageable challenges. Strategic climate control usage and range optimization accessories significantly mitigate these impacts.

Ultimately, the MG5 EV emerges as an exceptionally practical electric vehicle suitable for most Pakistani urban and intercity driving scenarios, provided users maintain thoughtful driving habits and leverage Pakistan’s steadily improving charging infrastructure. Visit Autostore Blog for more information.