MG published the first official photos of the upcoming MG4 EV, an all-new model set to launch this September in the UK. The MG4 EV will be the first to introduce the Modular Scalable Platform (MSP) architecture which will underpin several new models in different segments. The new MG was teased and spied last February, but this is the first time we get to see its exterior and interior design without any camouflage. Predictably, it adopts a five-door hatchback bodystyle with a few crossover styling cues.
At the front, MG designers went for a
grill-less style, with aggressive LED headlights and aerodynamic lines on the
front bumper reminiscent of the recently facelifted MG5 EV. The profile is
sculpted with a dose of plastic cladding on the side sills, and features side
windows that are visually connected with the rear windscreen.
At the back, the full-width LED taillights
are somewhat similar to the Toyota Yaris, with a two-part rear spoiler looking
like the continuation of the roofline due to the glass roof. The rear bumper
has an aluminum-style skidplate, and the aero-style wheels are shod in
high-profile tires, presumably for enhancing comfort. Inside the cabin there is
a fully digital dashboard, in line with the current EV trend. The free-standing
infotainment touchscreen looks rather large and has physical buttons
underneath. The center console is limited to a wireless charging pad and a
circular knob. The two-spoke steering wheel looks similar to what we have seen
from the likes of Skoda, with a small free-standing digital instrument cluster
behind it. We can also see a couple of cupholders, large door bins, and
Honda-style climate vents.
More importantly, the MG4 EV will
introduce the new Modular Scalable Platform (MSP), a RWD EV-dedicated
architecture that will bring the latest updates in safety, technology and
efficiency. With a battery height of only 110 mm and a 50:50
weight distribution, the platform is said to offer improved handling. Initially,
the MG4 EV will be available with two battery capacities, with 51 kWh or 64
kWh, offering 350-452 km of WLTP range. The model will be
fitted with a rear-mounted electric motor, although the platform will be AWD-ready
with a potential addition of a second front-mounted electric motor. MG also
mentioned the compatibility of the platform with “future technologies including
battery swap systems” and over-the-air updates throughout the vehicle’s
lifecycle.
The automaker suggested that the new
architecture will underpin various different models including hatchbacks, SUVs,
and sportscars, with the latter most likely referring to the production version
of the MG Cyberster. It will be compatible with wheelbase lengths between 2,650
mm and 3,100 mm, covering a wide spectrum of
segments.
MG will soon announce the specifications
of the MG4 EV, together with pricing for the UK market. David Allison, Head of
Product and Planning at MG Motor UK, talked about “excellent value for money”,
so we guess that the MG4 EV will be a value-focused proposal. Rivals will
include the likes of the VW ID.3, the Kia EV6, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and more
fully electric hatchbacks and crossovers.
