In recent years, there has been a huge boom in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. Many well-known makers have begun offering their most popular models in EV iterations and newcomers to the scene have made a name for themselves by introducing new and exciting EVs as well as innovative technologies in electrification.
British automotive marque MG might be best known for their sports and mini cars, but a new revelation produced by SAIC Motor might shift public knowledge of the company. The MG Cyberster, unveiled in images in March of 2021 and physically at Auto Shanghai in April 2021 is stealing the spotlight from other more popular electric sports cars.
Although Tesla has been on the scene as the leader of EV production and sales and has dominated the market, recent productions have seen increased competition for the company, and it seems that even the company’s flagship model is not immune. The Model S has been in production since 2012 as one of Tesla’s major offerings, but the Cyberster has an opportunity to dethrone the liftback EV.
Let’s take a closer look at how the gorgeous MG Cyberster could outshine the Tesla Model S!
The MG Cyberster’s Specifications
The sports car from MG takes inspiration from the classic MGB Roadster in appearances but has been built on an all-electric base. Capable of covering around 500 miles on a single full charge according to the maker, putting it at the high end of ranges available on comparable EVs. The Tesla Model S advertises just 405 miles estimated range, but future years are likely to improve on that number.
The Cyberster is also capable of accelerating 0-62 MPH in less than three seconds, proving that its aerodynamic design is worth more than the aesthetic appeal that it provides. Tesla’s Model S also insanely fast, boasting an acceleration of 0-60 MPH in just under two seconds in the Plaid trim. If the Cyberster proves itself more than theoretically in acceleration, it could provide some competition for Tesla in that arena as well.
Although more specifications and details will become available closer to the production date as things are finalized, the Cyberster is already making big promises in range and acceleration. According to reports from MG, the Cyberster will go into production sometime next year (late in 2023) and will begin delivery shortly thereafter. Guy Pigounakis, MG Motor’s UK Commercial Director, noted at an event in May of 2022 that “In around 18 months’ time, the car that enthusiasts have been waiting for will be launched,” which aligns with this timeline.
According to Kelley Blue Book, the Tesla Model S retails starting at $104,990. A final price for the Cyberster has not yet been announced, however, the initial concept was funded through a crowdfunding campaign which saw contributions from 5000 potential buyers. The goal from MG was to raise 5% of the initial $149 billion required to launch the concept into production and each share was priced at just $149, which was considered the deposit on the car.
The Features And Technology In The MG Cyberster
According to details shared so far by MG, the Cyberster will feature some exciting new technologies including a gaming cockpit and 5G connectivity as well as design upgrades. The gaming cockpit design includes interactivity as well as a large LED instrument cluster on a secondary screen. The main screen will highlight relevant vehicle information for the driver. Additionally, the car will be equipped with intelligent driving modes, “active upgrading” technology able to auto-upgrade with over the air instructions, and level three autonomous driving ability.
The “driver-centric” interior design also includes zero gravity seats with floating head restraints and luxury upgrades in materials. Additionally, the gaming style theme continues with a steering display that shows music playlists and other non-vehicle related information. The car will be offered in both left and right-hand drive markets eventually, according to MG, making it an international prospect.
Other design elements that make the Cyberster stand out are door panels and red leather handles that reflect the design of the “laser belt” that runs the length of the car’s exterior. The “laser belt” is a strip of LED lighting down the side of the car and which also outlines the door. The car also features a full width taillight above the rear diffuser and a convertible fabric roof. The classical shaped MG grilled serves dual functions as a throwback to the inspiration as well as an air duct to direct airflow over the chassis. Featuring classic round headlights that are interactive “Magic Eye” iterations that open when switched on, the front end is striking.
The profile of the vehicle has a distinct two-stage shoulder line and a flatter “kamm tail” rear that is accented by alloy wheels and LED tail lamps that are integrated into the car to allow for a flat surface there as well. According to MG the intention in the overall profile of the vehicle was to harken back to their British heritage.
Although Tesla is first on the scene and has a few years on MG’s introduction to the EV roadster arena, there are some aspects of design, technology, and features in the Cyberster that put it in the running to outshine the Model S in the near future. The gorgeous overall physique of the Cyberster is incredibly appealing and if MG follows through on their promises with regard to range and technology integration, the Cyberster might just outshine all the competition in the EV Roadster market.