Qatar 2022: Welsh fans embark on 5000-mile electric car trip from Europe

A four-man team of Welsh football supporters is undertaking an epic, 5,000-mile journey across Europe and the Middle East in an MG electric vehicle, as they make their way to Qatar for the highlight of the global footballing calendar.

Having set off from Wales on Tuesday (October 25), the four electric-car enthusiasts are currently travelling through Europe, and are expected to arrive in Amman, Jordan on November 12. The team will be travelling through Jordan and Saudi Arabia, experiencing the rich culture that the region has to offer, with plans to visit iconic sites such as Wadi Rum, Al Ula, and Hofuf as well as the King Fahd Stadium in Riyadh along the way.

On their trip, the team will be visiting the MG car dealerships, which will provide crucial charging facilities for the new MG4 Electric model, as well as a chance for the team to connect with like-minded enthusiasts. Just 22 days after setting off, the team is expected to arrive in Qatar on November 18 — in time for Wales’ first group game against the US on November 21.

Driver Nick Smith explained the thinking behind this unique journey: “Our love of football, a thirst for adventure and the desire to raise awareness of sustainable issues are all behind this exciting trip. We’ll also be dispelling some of the myths and misconceptions surrounding electric cars. We’re passionate about the positive change that electric cars can bring. They’re an important part of reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, decreasing CO2 emissions and improving the air quality of our towns and cities.”

The central sustainability message of the trip is that electric cars are viable alternatives to petrol and diesel, even in the most challenging circumstances. The MG electric vehicle is capable of approximately 281 miles (451 kilometres) on a single charge and can charge in just under nine hours from a standard home charger. With rapid charging, the car can go from 10% to 80% in just 35 minutes!