As the storied marque MG celebrates its centenary, it has chosen to mark this milestone with an audacious entry into the electric vehicle market: the Cyberster. This electric roadster represents a significant departure from MG's recent history of producing budget-friendly family cars, harking back to its origins as a manufacturer of sports cars. The Cyberster is not just a celebration of MG’s 100 years but a bold statement about its future.
A Long-Awaited Return
MG, established in 1924, has a rich legacy of producing iconic sports cars. However, the last time MG introduced an all-new sports car, many of today's car enthusiasts weren't even born. The Cyberster, therefore, carries the weight of history on its sleek shoulders. Under Chinese ownership, MG has undergone a transformation, primarily focusing on economical family cars. The Cyberster breaks this mold as the first electric sports car that is financially accessible to the average enthusiast.
The Journey to Production
The concept of the Cyberster dates back to 2017, when a passionate group of designers at the SAIC studio in London envisioned a modern take on the classic MG B. This project, initiated without directives from the higher-ups, faced numerous challenges and was almost shelved during the pandemic. However, the enthusiastic reception at the 2021 Shanghai Motor Show convinced SAIC chairman Chen Hong to greenlight the production, demonstrating the power of public opinion.
Design and Aesthetics
Designed by Carl Gotham, the Cyberster combines classic sports car proportions with a modern electric vehicle aesthetic. Despite being significantly longer than the Mazda MX-5, the Cyberster maintains a sleek profile, avoiding the awkwardness that plagues many EVs. This is achieved through SAIC's ultra-thin battery cell design and a long wheelbase, preventing unseemly overhangs. The Cyberster’s design, complete with powered scissor doors and distinctive rear indicators, exudes a supercar aura.
Performance and Affordability
A true marvel, the Cyberster matches the legendary McLaren F1's 0-62mph time but at a fraction of the price, starting at £50k. Its affordability is partly due to the use of proven parts shared with the MG 4 EV, including motors, steering systems developed with Bosch, brakes from Brembo and Continental, and Pirelli P Zero tyres.
British Contributions
Despite its Chinese ownership, much of the Cyberster's development took place in the UK, particularly at Longbridge. British engineers played a crucial role in tuning the ride, handling, and various systems, ensuring the car caters to local tastes. They made several enhancements, such as lowering the driving position, adding adjustable lumbar support, and refining the car's digital interfaces to be less animated and more user-friendly.
Interior and Technology
The Cyberster’s interior boasts comfortable faux-leather bucket seats and a sophisticated infotainment system. However, the reliance on touchscreens for essential functions can be distracting, and the positioning of the steering wheel often blocks the view of the screens. Despite these minor drawbacks, the car offers a comfortable and engaging driving experience.
Driving Experience
On the road, the 2024 MG Cyberster impresses with its composed handling and supple suspension. The car's weight distribution is perfectly balanced, providing a confident and stable ride. The configurable driving modes—Comfort, Sport, and Super Sport—allow drivers to tailor the performance to their liking, while the regenerative braking system offers three levels of strength styled after Formula 1's KERS.
