MG unveiled a new concept car at the Beijing motor show, the EXE181, which is an electric hypercar with a single, central seat. This futuristic-looking car was actually inspired by the famous MG EX181 from 67 years ago. To understand the full story, we have to go back even further to 1930 when MG engineers and racers George Eyston and Ernest Eldridge collaborated with MG founder Cecil Kimber to set top-speed records in the 750cc class.
They used a blower from Eyston’s Powerplus supercharger company on MG’s new M-Type sports car, creating the EX120, or Magic Midget. This car became the first 750cc car to surpass 100mph at France’s Montlhéry GP track. Despite a fiery crash that put Eyston in the hospital, he continued to work on improving the car’s aerodynamics. The result was the EX127, which extended the 750cc record to 120mph.
In 1934, Eyston set his sights on the 1100cc class record and transformed an MG K-Type sports car into the EX135, nicknamed the Humbug. It reached speeds of 120mph. The EX135 was later revised by engineer Reid Railton and achieved records in various categories after World War II.
MG wasn’t satisfied and in 1954, they created the EX179, which matched a pill-shaped body with an enhanced version of the Morris Minor’s engine. However, this car didn’t live up to expectations. In 1957, MG decided to extend the 1500cc record they had held since 1939 with a new car: the EX181.
To optimize aerodynamics, MG designed a flattened torpedo shape for the EX181 with rear wheels positioned closer together than the front wheels. Fins were added at the rear, and the driver sat in a small bubble. Stirling Moss, Britain’s top Formula 1 driver at the time, was the perfect fit for the car due to his height. Despite the cramped conditions, the car performed well in wind tunnel tests, with 30% less drag than the previous model.
The engine in the EX181 was a dual-overhead-cam B-series four from MG’s A sports car, equipped with a Shorrock supercharger and fueled by 84% methanol. It produced 300bhp at 7300rpm. In August, Moss drove the car and set a new record of 246mph at Bonneville.
Two years later, Phil Hill drove the EX181 to achieve a record of 255mph in the 2000cc category. This would be MG’s final record attempt with a combustion engine.
With the unveiling of the EXE181, an electric hypercar, MG has come full circle from its early record-breaking days. This new concept car pays homage to MG’s history while showcasing their commitment to electric vehicles. The EXE181 represents a new chapter for MG, combining their heritage with cutting-edge technology.
MG’s journey from record-breaking cars of the past to their current focus on electric vehicles demonstrates their ability to adapt and innovate in the ever-changing automotive industry. As electric cars become more popular, MG is positioning itself as a forward-thinking brand that is ready to embrace the future of mobility.
Overall, MG’s story is a testament to the brand’s resilience and ability to evolve over time. From their early days of setting speed records to their current focus on electric vehicles, MG continues to push boundaries and redefine what it means to be a modern car manufacturer.
