MG is returning to Malaysia. First Indonesia, then Malaysia, or at least that what’s we’re hearing. A source close to Carlist claims that MG is scheduled to make a comeback here, and in advance of the big reveal, the company has already set up multiple showrooms.
With the stylish MG4 expected to land in Malaysian showrooms as the company’s flagship, naturally, we are intrigued in any MG debut in neighbouring countries, and Indonesia is the most recent to host the MG4 premiere. In a reveal in Indonesia last week, both the MG4 EV and ZS EV were unveiled.
In addition to the MG4 Electric, we can see the company’s dedication to the South-East Asian market as it launched the MGZS EV, a state-of-the-art SUV, as well. From what we are gathering, the Malaysian specifications will be almost identical to what Indonesia will receive, so here’s the lowdown.
MG will start assembling the two EVs at their plant in Cikarang, West Java from this quarter. The Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), which boasts a huge presence there and owns this factory, is also the manufacturer of Wuling automobiles.
The MG4 EV is aesthetically pleasing with its sleek design, vertical front turn signals, subtle brake lights, and sharp LED headlights. To show off the car’s high level of finish, the EV on display features quality materials, a sporty burgundy theme, and a clever connectivity system.
A 360-degree camera and Intelligent Car Connectivity features voice control, remote control apps, navigation, and internet audio streaming.
A permanent magnet synchronous electric motor with a maximum power output of 170 horsepower and a peak torque of 250 Nm powers the MG4 EV. The car’s 51 kWh battery has a claimed driving range of up to 425 km (NEDC).
Meanwhile, a 50.3 kWh lithium battery powers the PM Synchronous Motor used in the MG ZS EV. This has a driving range of up to 403 km when fully charged and takes thirty minutes to charge the battery to eighty percent in fast-charging mode.
It boasts 174 hp and 280 Nm of torque, and as you’d expect, employs the latest safety systems including Lane Assist System (LAS), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Advanced Cruise Control (ACC), Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Rear Drive Assist (RDA), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).
As far as pricing goes, the MG4 EV will go on sale in Indonesia for IDR 433 million (RM129,193), while the MG ZS EV will cost IDR 453 million (RM135,160).
OUR THOUGHTS
It goes without saying that this launch in Indonesia is a kind of ‘teaser’ and a prelude to an imminent debut in Malaysia. Just when exactly is still unclear. But one thing’s for sure. These two good-looking MG EVs will give the established EVs on the market, like Tesla, a real run for their money.