SAICs MG, expanding its European presence in the high-end new energy vehicle (NEV) market, has unveiled its hybrid hatchback MG3 model for the European market. It combines a fossil-fuel engine that charges a larger battery so the car can periodically run in electric, zero-emission mode.
The MG3 is a budget rival to the Toyota Yaris and Volkswagen Polo hatchbacks. It will go on sale in Ireland this year.
A tried-and-tested 1.5-litre petrol engine powers an electric motor, producing a combined system power of 190 kW/258 hp. The electric motor can operate the car independently from the petrol engine, or the driver can choose to run the petrol engine exclusively. MG says its drive system is designed for long-distance, high-speed motoring.
As with the MG ZS EV, now selling in Europe, MG promises generous driver assistance and entertainment features as standard. Its twin-display screens can be personalized, and customers will have access to the full range of MG Connect services. A seven-year/80,000-mile manufacturer warranty will also be included.
MG has set an ambitious sales target of 10,000 units in Europe this year and is opening 40 dealer outlets across the continent. It is also establishing a network of charging stations and expanding its online sales channels, including an app allowing customers to book test drives and make payments.
The company aims to be one of the top 10 car brands in 2025 when it is scheduled to open its first showrooms outside China. In the past, MGs’ inexpensive internal-combustion small and compact cars have attracted buyers in many European markets.
In its early days in the European market, MG concentrated mainly on sales in Germany and France. It has expanded to other countries, including Italy and the Netherlands, with a joint venture with local company JSW.
At the Geneva show, MG will showcase its latest cars, including a revamped version of its popular MG3 compact hatchback. This will be available in several versions, ranging from entry-level to premium.
A hybrid MG3 is also being introduced for the Chinese market. It will combine a petrol engine with an electric motor, and the company claims it can travel for up to 800 km (497 miles) on a single charge. MG is already selling pure-EV models in China, including the ZS EV, which has seen tremendous sales since it was launched last October. It sold 6,131 vehicles in the UK to the end of May, accounting for 5.5 percent of all new electric registrations. It is the third biggest seller in the C-SUV segment behind the Tesla Model X and Toyota Prius. It is a popular choice for buyers seeking affordable green transportation who can commute daily on the motorway.
