The Complete Guide to Charging Your MG 4: Everything You Need to Know
When it comes to 'refuelling' an electric vehicle (EV), the process is quite different from a traditional petrol-powered car. While both types of vehicles consume energy, the way we replenish that energy varies significantly. For EVs like the MG 4, charging is the equivalent of a fuel stop, but the good news is that you can do it almost anywhere there is access to electricity.
At Tynan MG Sutherland, we want to give you a comprehensive guide to understanding the charging process for the MG 4, including the different specifications, methods, and how long it takes to recharge your vehicle.
Charging Specifications for the MG 4
The MG 4 comes in five different specification levels, each offering varying charging capabilities. The key differences in these variants are their battery sizes and charging rates, which directly impact how long it takes to recharge the vehicle.
Here’s a breakdown of the charging capabilities for each MG 4 specification:
Model | Max AC Charging Rate | Optimum AC Charging Time (0-100%) | Max DC Charging Rate | Optimal DC Charging Time (10-80%) | Battery Capacity |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Excite 51 | 6.6 kW | 7.5 hours | 88 kW | 37 min | 51 kWh |
Excite 64 | 6.6 kW | 9 hours | 140 kW | 28 min | 64 kWh |
Essence 64 | 6.6 kW | 9 hours | 140 kW | 28 min | 64 kWh |
Long Range 77 | 11 kW | 7 hours | 144 kW | 38 min | 77 kWh |
X-Power | 6.6 kW | 9 hours | 140 kW | 28 min | 64 kWh |
As you can see, the Long Range 77 variant offers the fastest charging time due to its higher AC charging rate of 11kW.
Charging Your MG 4 at Home
One of the biggest advantages of owning an electric vehicle is the convenience of charging at home. Here’s what you need to know:
Standard Power Outlet Charging
All versions of the MG 4 come with a portable charging cable that plugs into a standard home power socket. However, this method is slower and only rated for 8A (amps), meaning you can expect to charge at a rate of 1.2-1.5 kW.
Pro Tip: To ensure optimal charging, avoid using air-conditioning or heating while your vehicle is plugged in. This will help you maintain a faster charging rate.
Dedicated AC Home Charging
For quicker charging at home, you can install a dedicated AC home charger (7/11/22kW). This option is perfect for those who want to ensure their MG 4 is fully charged overnight, without worrying about slow charging speeds.
If you have a solar panel system at home, you can also use excess solar energy to charge your car during the day, reducing charging costs significantly.
A Type 2 cable (sold separately) is needed for these dedicated chargers. It supports up to 22kW charging, making it perfect for fast home charging.
Charging Your MG 4 on the Go: Public Charging Options
When you’re out on the road, you have several options to charge your MG 4, including public charging stations.
DC Fast Charging
For quick recharges while on a road trip, DC fast chargers are the way to go. The MG 4 can accept a peak DC fast charge rate of 140kW for most variants, significantly faster than many competitors in the same price range.
- Tesla Superchargers are open-access to any brand of EV, including the MG 4. These chargers are some of the fastest and most reliable in the country.
- Evie chargers also provide DC fast charging at up to 150kW, allowing you to get back on the road in as little as 28 minutes.
During real-world tests, the MG 4 Long Range 77 charged from 40-80% in 26 minutes at a Tesla Supercharger, even during challenging conditions like a 35-degree heatwave.
Long Road Trips in the MG 4
When planning an EV road trip, it's important to factor in charging times. While the MG 4 can charge from nearly empty to full overnight at dedicated AC chargers, you'll need to plan for charging stops on longer trips.
Many accommodation providers allow guests to charge their EVs during their stay, either through standard power sockets (bring your portable charging cable) or dedicated AC chargers. Be sure to ask for permission and offer to pay for the electricity used.
Key Takeaways for MG 4 Owners
- Charging at home can be done with the included portable charging cable, but for faster charging, consider installing a dedicated AC home charger.
- DC fast charging on the go is fast and convenient, especially with networks like Tesla Superchargers and Evie chargers.
- Solar charging can be a great option for homes with solar panels, offering "almost free fuel" during the day.
- Real-world testing shows the MG 4 performs well under varied conditions, and its DC fast-charging capabilities are among the best in its class.
At Tynan MG Sutherland, we’re here to help guide you through the EV charging process and ensure you get the most out of your MG 4. Whether you're charging at home or on the road, the MG 4 is designed for convenience and efficiency every step of the way.
Interested in learning more? Come visit us today to explore the MG 4 and start your electric vehicle journey!
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Credit: CarExpert.com.au