MG Marvel R

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.

Electric cars are undoubtedly gaining popularity in the automotive industry. However, a recent study highlighted that EVs still exhibit reliability issues when compared to traditional internal combustion engine-powered (ICE) vehicles. Some argue that electric vehicles are less reliable, citing concerns about charging infrastructure, battery performance, and maintenance issues. While challenges may exist, the shift towards electric mobility is seen as a positive step in addressing environmental concerns and promoting sustainable transportation in the long run. Recent EV Models Show 79% More Issues Than Conventional Cars Based on a comprehensive survey incorporating feedback from over 330,000 electric vehicle (EV) owners covering the model years 2020 to 2023, the study unveiled a surprising trend. It revealed that EVs from the last three years exhibited a 79 percent higher incidence of issues compared to their conventional counterparts, despite boasting simpler drivetrains. The survey identifies 20 other issues related to EV ownership, including issues with the infotainment systems, engine, electric motors, transmission, and leaks. Interestingly, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), which have both a battery for short-range electric driving and an internal combustion engine for longer distances, are the least reliable category, showing 146% more problems than traditional cars. Read Also: Electric vs. ICE: Which is Better as Your New Car? Hybrids Outshine Conventional Cars On a brighter note, the report also highlights that hybrids are more reliable than regular petrol and diesel cars. These hybrids have 26% fewer issues compared to conventional cars, even though they use both a regular engine and an electric motor. It is worth noting that hybrids may have more potential problems than regular cars with only internal combustion engines. While hybrids may not have all the fancy features of modern electric vehicles, they are considered good choices for drivers who prioritize better fuel efficiency over other extra features. In Conclusion The rise of EVs brings challenges compared to traditional cars, with concerns about charging, batteries, and maintenance leading to a 79% increase in issues over three years. Hybrids, blending regular engines and electric motors, are notably more reliable, showing a 26% reduction in problems. Despite hurdles, the shift to EVs is applauded for environmental benefits, emphasising the need to address challenges as technology advances to shape the automotive industry's future. Read Also: CNG vs Electric: Which New Car to Buy

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