All-electric roadster headlines 3-model MG preview
A BATTERY electric vehicle roadster will be among at least eight MG vehicle models slated to enter the Philippine market until 2025. The MG Cyberster was previewed at the recent media thanksgiving party of SAIC Motor Philippines, exclusive distributor of MG.
“MG continues to play its role as a strong upcoming contender in the progress and transformation of the automotive landscape in the Philippines…. We are excited to announce that we are looking to expand our model lineup further with about eight new models to be introduced by 2025,” said SAIC Motor Philippines President Felix Jiang in a speech during the event in Makati City.
According to the executive, the MG portfolio will continue to be comprised of internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered models and electric vehicles, and added that the brand will “extend (its) presence in various segments.”
He described the MG Cyberster as a “two-door EV roadster” that “embodies MG’s renowned British roadster heritage, (but) for the 21st century.” The MG Cyberster is set to be publicly launched here by first half of 2024, according to SAIC Motor Philippines Marketing Manager Che Cabotaje. The Cyberster is powered by a 77-kWh battery which runs its 1x e-motor. It has 335bhp on tap, and the transmission is a single-speed automatic, which drives the rear wheels. MG claims a zero-to-100kph time of 4.6 seconds.
Also previewed was the MG One crossover, set for release in Q1 of next year. The MG One is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter gas engine. Meanwhile, “Velocity” was among the few media outlets given a sneak peek of the MG4 XPower — also for release in the first quarter of 2024. The XPower will take its place as the highest variant of the previous launched MG4 (which presently has Standard and Lux variants).
“Together with our product extension, we are dedicated to establishing a robust dealership network that ensures accessibility and exceptional service for our valued customers. These indeed are exciting times for MG,” concluded Mr. Jiang. — Kap Maceda Aguila
