MG Baojun

The MG Comet has been around for a year and continues to stand out as the most budget-friendly electric vehicle currently available in the market. March 2024 saw an impressive sales figure of nearly 900 units, positioning it as the third best-selling model in MG's lineup, right behind the Hector and Astor SUVs. This achievement underscores the Comet's significant impact on the Indian automotive landscape within just a year of its launch. Pros Smallest Turning Radius That’s right! The MG Comet boasts a remarkable turning radius of just 4.2 meters, making it a standout performer in navigating tight city streets and congested traffic conditions with ease.  Adding to its manoeuvrability is its compact size, measuring under 3 metres in length. To put this into perspective, the Tata Nano extends to a length of 3,164 mm. Feature Loaded Well, MG has been generous here, and I mean it. For starters, there’s a floating twin display housing the cluster and the infotainment system, both 10.25 inches each. Then there’s the nostalgia-inducing iPod-inspired steering wheel controls that feel great to operate just like the good old days. Besides three drive modes, regenerative braking (three levels) has also been offered. Spacious Interior Tall passengers in your family always complaining about the lack of headroom? Not anymore. Towering as a Jeep Compass, the Comet stands tall at a height of 1,640 mm.  With its exclusive platform, the Comet boasts a flat floorboard design, facilitating effortless movement inside the vehicle. Even the rear seats can be split in a 50-50 fashion for extended storage space.  Advanced Battery Tech With the 2024 update, MG introduced a 7.4 kW charger taking 3.5 hours to juice up the prismatic cell battery from nil. As for the range, MG claims an impressive 230 kilometres on a full charge. However, real-world conditions may lead to a slightly reduced range, with expectations hovering around the 190-kilometre mark. Aggressive Pricing Starting at a competitive price of ₹6.98 lakh, the Comet Executive trim presents an enticing offer, undercutting its closest rival, the Tiago EV, by approximately ₹1 lakh. But the savings don't end there. The range-topping Exclusive FC will cost you ₹9.23 lakh, saving you a whopping ₹2.66 lakh over the Tiago EV’s top-end trim.  Cons Subjective Styling The Comet's exterior body design language is undeniably unique, which may not resonate with every consumer's taste. Additionally, its large 2-door format introduces a distinctive element, albeit with the trade-off of exposing the entire interior whenever the doors are opened. Seating The EV excels as a comfortable two-seater, but accommodating four passengers may pose challenges, particularly during longer journeys. Accessing the rear seats can prove cumbersome, given the limited slide of the front seats. Boot Space With the rear seats up there’s hardly any room for luggage, let alone accommodating four passengers comfortably. The situation is further compounded by the presence of tyre puncture and charging kits, which occupy the already limited space, leaving only a tiny area available for one or two backpacks, at best. Thus, for weekend getaways, the necessity to split-fold the rear seats becomes inevitable. Driving Dynamics With its tall-body design, the Comet suffers from tremendous body roll, a characteristic that's hard to overlook. Additionally, the use of 12 inches, while contributing to its unique aesthetic, proves less than ideal for both rough roads and high-speed driving, leading to a compromise in overall handling and stability. Furthermore, road noise stemming from the tyres permeates the cabin, exposing the cost-cutting done on noise-suppressing material. Also Read: Mahindra XUV 3XO Variants Explained

MG Motors India is preparing to introduce a new electric vehicle to the Indian market. At present, there are two electric cars on offer; the Comet EV, and ZS EV. Although the name of the third model is yet to be confirmed, the company hints at its imminent arrival. Additionally, this upcoming EV will mark the brand's first release following its partnership with SAIC Motor and JSW Group. SAIC Motor, MG Motor’s parent company, and JSW Group, led by Sajjan Jindal, are key players in this collaboration. Upcoming MG Electric SUV: Based on Comet EV Platform While there is no official confirmation yet, many are expecting MG to bring the Baojun Yep Plus to India. This 5-door electric SUV is based on the Comet EV platform and was recently launched internationally. Chances are that this SUV could potentially be rebranded as an MG vehicle for the Indian market. Also Read: Hyundai Creta N-Line: What We Know So Far Upcoming MG Electric SUV: Battery Details If Baojun Yep Plus is introduced as a new MG EV for India, it is likely to use the same battery pack. The global-specific model uses a 28 kWh battery pack that can help the vehicle to travel up to 431 kms on a single full charge. In addition, the SUV uses an electric motor mounted on the rear axle. This can generate a maximum power output of 68 bhp with 140 Nm of peak torque. Its top speed stands at 150 kmph. With these specifications, the Baojun Yep Plus promises both power and efficiency for users, making it a compelling option in the electric vehicle segment. Expected Launch Date and Pricing The brand is likely to launch its new EV in India around the festive season later this year, likely towards the end of 2024. While an exact date is yet to be confirmed by the company, it is expected to be announced once the new MG electric car's name is finalized. The upcoming EV is seen as a strategic move to strengthen MG's presence in the market, with the manufacturer considering both luxury SUV and the affordable segment. Following this, the EV could target the mid-range category, offering a compelling option to a broader range of customers. Also Read: Upcoming Skoda SUV: What to Expect MG Future Plans The British automaker has ambitious plans to double its portfolio by the end of 2025, aiming to reach more customers and solidify its position in the country. While there has not been any official announcement or teaser for the new EV expected this year, there are several potential contenders. These include the MG4 electric hatchback, Mifa 9 electric MPV, or MG5 electric estate car, all of which were showcased at the 2023 Delhi Auto Expo.

MG Motor India is preparing to launch two more electric vehicles in the Indian market in the next 1 year. The company is currently selling the Comet as an entry-level electric vehicle and is priced under Rs 10 lakh. The other mode is the ZS EV, which is priced above Rs 20 lakh. MG aims to introduce two new EVs, which will cost somewhere between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 20 lakh. It is expected that MG could launch the re-badged versions of the Wuling Cloud EV and the Baojun Yep Plus in India; however, the company is yet to make an official announcement on the same. As a reminder, SAIC Motor and the JSW Group have recently entered into a strategic joint venture. The JV plans to launch multiple electric and ICE vehicles under the MG Motor nameplate in India. The new MG Comet EV and the Yep Plus SUV are likely to be priced under Rs 15 lakhs. The new models will be based on the E260 EV platform. MG Cloud EV Expected to be launched before the end of this year, the new MG electric MPV will be based on the Wuling Cloud MPV on sale in Indonesia. It measures 4295mm in length, 1,850mm in width and 1,652mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2700mm. This MPV will target both family and fleet operators. This electric MPV comes fitted with a 50.6kWh lithium-ion battery pack and a front-axle mounted permanent magnet synchronous electric motor that is rated at 134bhp and 240Nm. It is claimed to offer a range of up to 505km in a single charge.  The Indonesian-spec model is fitted with several safety features including traction control, multiple airbags, blind spot monitoring, electric parking brake, brake assist, VSM, front & rear parking sensors, TPMs, hill start assist control, reverse camera and others. It also comes with an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) with features like Lane Departure Warning System, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Monitoring, etc.  MG Yep Plus MG Motor India has already registered the design patents for the rugged Yep mini electric SUV. However, it is expected that the company will launch the 5-door version of the electric SUV - called the Yep Plus. The electric SUV will be launched by the end of this financial year, by March 2025. It measures 4000mm in length, 1760mm in width and 1726mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,560mm. The length and the wheelbase are increased by 600mm and 450mm, respectively, which allows Baojun to create more space inside the cabin.  The company is yet to reveal the battery specifications; however, it comes with a 102bhp, rear-axle mounted electric motor. It is claimed to offer a top speed of 150kmph. The Baojun Yep Plus delivers a range of up to 401km in a single charge. Also Read: Upcoming MG Electric SUV for India

MG Hector Blackstorm Edition has made its debut in India at the starting price of Rs 21.24 lakh (ex-showroom). This variant is derived from the top-spec Sharp Pro trims as it is offered with both petrol and diesel engine options. The newly launched Blackstorm Edition is also available for both the Hector and Hector Plus models. MG Hector Blackstorm Edition: Key Highlights? In line with the Astor Blackstorm Edition and the Gloster Blackstorm Edition, the exterior of the vehicle highlights an all-black paint scheme. This is further accentuated by red accents found on the bumpers alongside red brake callipers. Inside the cabin, the British-origin manufacturer has offered a combination of Sangria and Black colour themes, equipped with notable features. These include a 14-inch portrait-style touchscreen infotainment system, powered seat for the driver, Level 2 ADAS tech, climate control with rear AC vents, digital instrument cluster, and a full LED lighting package. MG Hector Blackstorm Edition: Powertrain Details Regarding engine choices for the Hector Blackstorm Edition, customers can opt for either a 1.5-litre petrol engine or a 2.0-litre diesel unit. The petrol variant delivers a maximum power output of 141 bhp with 250 Nm of peak torque. Transmission options include either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed CVT gearbox.  While the diesel on the other hand produces 168 bhp of power and 350 Nm torque. It comes later with only a 6-speed manual gearbox.  MG Hector Blackstorm Edition: Price and Rivals Pricing for the Hector Blackstorm Edition starts from 21.24 lakh and goes up to Rs 22.75 lakh (ex-showroom). Here is the detailed price breakup (ex-showroom) as per variants: MG Hector Blackstorm Edition CVT- Rs 21.24 lakh MG Hector Blackstorm Edition Diesel MT- Rs 21.94 lakh MG Hector Plus Blackstorm Edition CVT (7 Seat) - Rs 21.97 lakh MG Hector Plus Blackstorm Edition Diesel MT (7 Seat) - Rs 22.54 lakh MG Hector Plus Blackstorm Edition Diesel MT (6 Seat) - Rs 22.75 lakh As for rivals, it competes against the likes of Hyundai Creta N Line, Kia Seltos X-Line, Tata Harrier Dark, Volkswagen Taigun GT Line, MG Astor Blackstorm, and the Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo. Also Read: Upcoming Cars and SUVs Launching in April 2024