MG Motor India currently sells five models, comprising the Hector (Hector and Hector Plus), Astor, Gloster, ZS EV, and Comet EV. The company intends to broaden its product range further by introducing a new electric vehicle during the festive season of 2024. This information is disclosed by Rajeev Chaba, Managing Director of MG Motor India. It will mark the first product release following the collaboration between SAIC (the parent company of MG Motor) and JSW, owned by Sajjan Jindal. The JSW Group holds a 35 percent stake in the joint venture, which aims to introduce both Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEVs) in the country.
Regarding MG’s new electric car – speculated to be a re-badged Baojun Yep Plus – the company has maintained secrecy. However, indications point to it being the Yep Plus, as evidenced by the company’s design trademark filing in India. The Yep Plus, unveiled earlier this year, is a 5-door electric SUV with a wheelbase of 2,560mm. It measures 3.4 meters in length, 75mm wider, and 5mm taller compared to its three-door counterpart (Yep), with a wheelbase 450mm longer. Sporting a Defender-like appearance with a boxy stance, it features newly-designed alloy wheels and a blacked-out C-pillar, while its headlamps bear resemblance to Porsche graphics.
While specifics about the powertrain of the Baojun Yep Plus remain undisclosed, reports suggest it will feature a larger battery capacity than the 28.2kWh offered in the Yep 3-door variant, along with a 102bhp electric motor mounted on the rear axle. The electric SUV is expected to provide a range of approximately 401km on the CLTC cycle and reach a top speed of 150kmph.
Utilizing the Global Small Electric Vehicle (GSEV) platform also found in the Comet EV, the Baojun Yep Plus is anticipated to be priced between Rs 12 lakh and Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom). While it won’t have direct competition in India, it will take on models like the Citroen eC3 and Tata Punch EV.
