MG Cyberster: A New Era for MG Sports Cars
Introduction:
The MG Cyberster, an eagerly anticipated electric sports car, is set to hit the UK market. With prices starting at £54,995 and deliveries scheduled for August, MG aims to revolutionize the affordable electric roadster segment. The Cyberster will be available in two specifications: Trophy and GT.
Specifications and Features:
Both Trophy and GT versions of the Cyberster come equipped with a 77kWh battery. The Trophy offers 335bhp and 350lb ft of torque, allowing for a 0-62mph time of 5.0 seconds and a range of 316 miles. On the other hand, the GT model boasts four-wheel drive and an impressive power output of 496bhp and 535lb ft, enabling it to sprint from 0-62mph in just 3.2 seconds and providing a range of 276 miles.
In terms of features, the Cyberster offers customizable driving modes, six-way adjustable heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and adaptable regenerative braking as standard. Other notable features include Brembo brakes, 19-inch alloy wheels, a 10.25-inch touchscreen with two smaller 7.0-inch displays, dual-zone climate control, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, a 360-degree parking camera, and an eight-speaker Bose audio system.
Design and Size:
The MG Cyberster’s design takes inspiration from contemporary gaming trends and features scissor doors, providing a sense of theater. The roadster has a wide and spacious cabin due to the lack of an engine in the nose. The batteries are located in the chassis using a ‘skateboard’ principle. While the Cyberster has grown in size compared to its predecessor, the MG F, it still maintains a curvaceous and approachable design.
Market Response and Future Plans:
According to MG UK commercial director Guy Pigounakis, the company has received an overwhelming response from potential buyers. MG’s British dealers have also shown great enthusiasm for the Cyberster. However, Pigounakis emphasizes that the Cyberster’s main function is to serve as an image-builder for the brand. MG aims to sell around 2000 units annually in the UK once demand stabilizes.
The MG Cyberster represents a significant step forward for MG in terms of design and technology. Carl Gotham, MG’s design director, sees the Cyberster as a key player in shaping the design style of future MG models. While MG will continue to focus on SUVs and estates, the Cyberster marks the brand’s reentry into the sports car segment.
Insight from Carl Gotham, MG’s Head of Design:
Carl Gotham, who played a pivotal role in the development of the Cyberster, sheds light on the project’s origins. The idea of a new sports car at MG was always present, and when Gotham joined the company, he pushed for its realization. The Cyberster project started as a skunk-works project and later evolved into one of Gotham’s main responsibilities.
Gotham explains that the Cyberster had to be a statement of intent about the company’s future. It needed to embody MG’s brand identity while being curvaceous, warm, and approachable. The exterior design was predominantly done in the UK, while aspects of the interior and fascia were finalized in Shanghai.
The EV Challenge and Design Ambitions:
As an electric vehicle, the Cyberster had to be larger than past roadsters. This presented both positives and negatives for the design team. On the positive side, the EV architecture allowed for ample cockpit and pedal space, along with excellent weight distribution thanks to the low position of the battery in the chassis. However, challenges such as seat height and overall size had to be addressed.
Gotham reflects on his experiences as a design director in the EV era, emphasizing the need to balance brand heritage with evolving vehicle design. He also highlights the importance of catering to different customer preferences in different markets, such as the UK and China.
Conclusion:
The MG Cyberster represents a significant milestone for MG, offering an affordable and powerful electric roadster. With its unique design, advanced technology, and promising specifications, the Cyberster is set to make a mark in the sports car segment. MG’s emphasis on brand recognition and value for money has paid off, as evidenced by the increasing sales figures in recent years. As MG continues to expand its lineup, the Cyberster paves the way for a new generation of MG sports cars.