The MG4 EV has been spotted with trade plates in Malaysia and we initially thought that Bermaz might bring it.
Well, it seems that our information was slightly dated and we now know that Bermaz will not be the brand guardian for Morris Garage (MG) in Malaysia.
Meanwhile, the all-electric and relatively new MG4 EV has been spotted on Malaysian roads today in red with trade plates on. While SAIC, one of China’s largest automotive conglomerates, has been largely absent from the Malaysian market (besides some Maxus representation under Weststar).
We’ve been hearing rumours about the arrival of MG with many potential suitors that might serve as distributors. Back in 2013, Federal Auto and SAIC signed an MOU, but that amounted to nothing. Then in 2015, The Star reported that Weststar might be in the run ning to distribute MG vehicles. Another viable candidate is the Tan Chong Group, as they have distributorship of MG in Vietnam. However, we’ve heard it also said that Bermaz are looking to take on the brand in Malaysia. There’s also the possibility that MG might set up without a local distributor partner, the way Chery Malaysia has, but the fact is that MG Berjaya is registered under SSM, so there’s more evidence of a Bermaz distributorship.
In any case, it looks like the MG4 EV will be the first “Modern Gentleman” passenger car to be sold in Malaysia in decades. A battery electric vehicle is a sensible first introduction to the market. Rival Chinese brands GWM and BYD (soon Chery too) have already played their hands with EVs ranging from RM100K to about RM170K. MG can look at the available options and adjust their entry accordingly.
The MG4 EV is nothing to scoff at either. It’s a C-segment hatchback that is built on SAIC’s Nebula Modular Scalable Platform with European ambitions. SAIC says that the primary focus of the MG4 EV was the European market and in fact it has been on sale there since last year.
In terms of specifications, the MG4 EV has an optional 800V architecture, allowing for very quick charging times. 200km of range can be recovered in just 5 minutes with a 150kW DC charger. The battery pack ranges from 51 to 64 to 77 kWh depending on specification. With the smaller battery packs, top speed it limited to 160km/h, but the largest battery pack enables it to drive to 180km/h.
Three motor outputs are available: 170PS/250Nm, 150PS/250Nm or 245PS/350Nm each enabling century sprint times of 7.5s, 7.7s or 6.1s.
What do you think of the MG4 EV? Does its angular lines present a masculine alternative to the Ora Good Cat? Which would you buy if priced competitively?
