The letters 'M' and 'G' mean something different in the automotive world these days compared to where they stood a few decades ago.
The once proudly British brand now has Chinese owners, and a range of products free from quintessential diminutive sports cars. On the plus side, given China's trajectory in car production, it's very likely that MG could soon rise back up as a major global player.
And, like so many others out there, MG's pursuit of growth and buzz has wound up with it revealing its first ever electric car for the European market at the Geneva Motor Show overnight.
It's called the MG eZS; an electric version of the brand's smallest current SUV. An electric eZS has long been part of MG's line-up in China, but bringing a similar product to Europe could be the ticket to the brand's re-acceptance.
Few specifics about what actually lies under the eZS's skin have been revealed in the model's Geneva launch. But, there are some numbers concerning range to mull over.
The eZS is said to be able to travel 431km to a charge according to NEDC cycle tests. That sounds impressive, although it's worth mentioning that under the more stringent WLTP standards the eZS is expected to travel a lower 320km to a charge.
It's unspecified what motor or what size of battery pack help propel the eZS, but what is known as that a single lithium-ion battery pack is positioned in the rear. It's expected that the powertrain is the same as that used
“With the launch of our MG ZS electric SUV we’re delighted to be entering the electric car market at such an exciting time,” said MG sales and marketing head Daniel Gregorious.
“With all the practicality and versatility of a compact SUV, a full-sized boot and room for five, ZS means electric without compromise.”
Read more: Chinese motor giant relaunches MG in New Zealand
The news reveal is a timely one for Kiwis, given that MG only just re-launched to the New Zealand market late last month. And its position as a 'sleeper' brand in our market could be further enhanced if an electric model joins the line-up.
The three models that make up the current MG NZ line-up — the MG3, ZS, and GS — all place emphasis on value. The ZS has a starting price of $23,990. Given that value, an electric version of the ZS could become New Zealand's cheapest new EV if it were to land here.
For reference, the cheapest EV is the Hyundai Ioniq at $59,990. Next in line is the Volkswagen e-Golf, which is priced at $62,990.
We will hopefully have more information on whether the eZS will hit our shores later today.
