It was at last year’s Shanghai Auto Show, that MG showcased its two-seater Cyberstar sports car concept. But come MG’s centenary celebration in 2024, the brand will be looking to have a production version ready…
At first look it’s obvious the concept draws inspiration from the classic MGB Roadster, the car everyone associates the company – however there are also heavy profile similarities with the BMW Z4 and Mazda MX5.
While the body is designed to enhance aerodynamic performance, the classic slim MG-style grille also serves as an air duct to ensure airflow over the chassis.
It features classic-looking yet interactive round ‘Magic Eye’ headlights that open when switched on. The LED tail lights are integrated flat into the rear of the car, projecting a digital image that cleverly echoes MG’s British heritage.
Inside, driver and passenger are separated thanks to a ‘digital fibre’ cockpit which adopts a driver-centric layout. Here there is a large interactive LED instrument cluster while a second central screen presents all vital info in a modern minimalist style.
The ‘Zero Gravity’ seats have floating head restraints, while the door panels and red leather handles reflect the ‘laser belt’ that runs down the exterior – a running theme.
With module-less battery technology, it features an Autonomous L3 intelligent driving system. Developed at the MG Advanced Design Centre in London, it is claimed the all-electric architecture will deliver a range of 800 km and a 0-100km/h time of less than 3.0 seconds.
The specs of the production car won’t look as radical, and may feature a more toned-down interior and less fancy equipment. This is to make the car more affordable for consumers, while keeping the concept elusive.
Whether a concept or production car, the Cyberster is a bold statement about MG’s history and future – and we’re here for both.
By Bill Varetimidis
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