MG Motor UK has secured 1,000 pre-orders for the new ZS EV within two weeks of the car going on sale.

The car, which was launched on July 17, was offered with a £3,500 discount for the first 1,000 retail customers. This was in addition to the £3,500 plug-in grant, meaning buyers paid £21,495 for the entry-level model.

Following the strong demand, MG has extended the offer for the next 1,000 customers.

Daniel Gregorious, head of sales & marketing at MG Motor UK, said: “We know that the canny British public can tell a bargain when they see one, but we’ve been blown away by the number of people who’ve moved quickly to secure an electric MG ZS at the launch price of £21,495. By extending our offer to match the government grant for the next 1,000 retail customers, we’re delighted to be able to maintain this offer, even if it’s just for a few more days. To anyone who’s been thinking about ordering a ZS EV, I suggest they do it now.”

The first 1,000 customers also received a complimentary home charging unit – an offer which will not be continuing – ensuring that those who were quick off the mark secured the best deal.

MG’s rapid sales performance mirrors that of the Kia e-Niro, which sold its first year’s allocation within the first month.

Kia is limited to around a 1,000 units per year due to battery supply issues, but MG says it has no supply issues and has a new battery factory in China that can produce 300,000 units per year.

The first batch of ZS EVs are expected to be delivered to customers in September.

Positioned as the first affordable, family-friendly electric car, the ZS EV provides a WLTP-accredited range of 163 miles.

Based on the ZS, ZS EV features a 44.5kWh lithium-ion battery pack which powers an electric motor with 143PS and 353Nm of torque.

It is available with MG Pilot, which includes advanced emergency braking, blindspot monitoring, lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control.

The MG ZS EV can be ordered with a fully refundable £500 deposit.