The former British Sports car brand MG, now flying the Chinese flag, has ambitious goals for Europe – and primarily focuses on affordable electric SUVs.
In the past, the British car brand "Morris Garages" was associated almost exclusively with open, two-seater sports cars. Many people will still have fond memories of the MG A and B models, both classic roadsters. The MG F was added more recently. Over. MG has been part of the Chinese car group SAIC (Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation) since 2007. SAIC is China's largest automaker, selling over 2020 million vehicles in 5,6. SAIC ranks seventh worldwide in terms of sales.
No more convertibles
So there is enough know-how and capital available to adapt a brand like MG to today's zeitgeist. It goes without saying that a revival cannot be based on the retro roadster route, even if some enthusiasts might wish for this. Industry experts no longer concede that there is a future for the convertible segment. Volume is made with SUVs, especially those in the compact format. At MG, these are driven fully or at least partially electrically. Because the brand should stand for “change and innovation”.
In some selected countries in Europe (Great Britain, Norway), MG has been represented since 2019 with two SUV models, the ZS, a vehicle in the B segment, and the EHS plug-in hybrid (C segment). Since this spring, both models can also be purchased from us. After deducting the environmental bonus of 9.570 euros, the battery-electric ZS starts at just over 21.000 euros. In terms of size, equipment and performance, this is a bargain and significantly cheaper than the competition.
"We want to make electric mobility accessible to as many people as possible," says Philipp Hempel, Sales & Network Director for the German-speaking region. The Chinese streamers should not cling to the image of a cheap home. On the contrary, MG sees itself on an equal footing with the competition in all disciplines – at least. The EuroNCAP crash test showed that lessons were learned from the mistakes of other Chinese manufacturers, such as Landwind: The ZS received the highest rating of five stars. The ten-year guarantee (or 150.000 kilometers) on the vehicle and battery should also provide proof of quality.
Up to 14 assistance systems at MG
MG also wants to keep up with the European brands when it comes to infotainment and connectivity, if not better. Voice control and over-the-air updates (OTA) are just as possible as various online functions, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Up to 14 assistance systems can be ordered for the electronics, including a Level 2 traffic jam pilot. Some of the charging management is even programmed for V2L (Vehicle-to-Load). External e-devices, e-scooters or other e-cars can be supplied with electricity in this way.
The plan is mainstream
It remains to be seen whether all of this has a positive influence on the customer's purchasing decision or whether it is ultimately all about the price. Because MG can't really score points when it comes to design, the models exude neither extravagance nor emotionality. China goes mainstream. The Marvel R Electric shouldn't make any difference here either. The third SUV from MG is internally considered a "high-end" vehicle and, with a length of 4,67 meters, is positioned in the territory of the VW ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq iV.
The price range is given by the company at 40.000 to 50.000 euros. Slated to go on sale later this year, the Marvel R is the brand's first all-wheel-drive vehicle. One motor is on the front axle and two more drive the rear axle. A range of almost 400 kilometers is promised, and a 70 kWh battery in the ground supplies the energy.
At the beginning of 2022, according to the plan, the portfolio will be expanded to include the MG5 Electric. It would then be the first all-electric station wagon in the world. MG has no shortage of other vehicle ideas. If you believe rumours, an electric sports car should be in development in addition to the three SUVs and the station wagon. Estimated debut: 2024. It is the year in which the MG brand celebrates its 100th anniversary.
