Marque’s ‘hybrid first’ approach
MG Motor New Zealand has announced details of its new “hybrid first” strategy as it focuses on delivering more low-emissions and fuel-efficient vehicles to the market.
Peter Ciao, MG Motor Australia and New Zealand chief executive officer, says the marque is entering an era where it can offer a range of “attainably priced” new models, many of which feature advanced hybrid powertrain technology.
“We’ve listened to motorists who have been requesting models which offer outstanding driving dynamics combined with the ability to travel significant distances plus deliver outstanding fuel efficiency,” he adds.
“Our new range of advanced hybrid powertrains will help position MG as the ‘go-to brand’ when it comes to exceeding these specific needs and requirements.”
The new strategy showcases models such as MG’s HS Hybrid+, HS Super Hybrid, MG3 Hybrid and ZS Hybrid.
New models
An all-new model being introduced to the MG portfolio this year is the HS Super Hybrid, pictured, which combines a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine and a 24.7kWh battery.
MG notes engineers drove a test version of the vehicle from Sydney to Melbourne on one tank of fuel and one charge, a distance of 880km, and still had more than 100km of available range remaining.
The HS Super Hybrid will be available in Excite and Essence trim levels and priced from $52,990 plus on-road costs. Final specifications will be confirmed ahead of launch in September.
Another newcomer for the local line-up is the all-electric MGS5 EV, which is built on the same platform as the MG4.
It is available in two battery sizes, 49kWh and 62kWh, and comes with either the Excite or Essence specifications.
The MGS5 promises a driving range of up to 515km and allows charging from 30 per cent to 80 per cent in 19 minutes. All models have a maximum power of 125kW and 250Nm of torque.
As part of the hybrid first strategy, MG is also reducing prices on a number of models including the ZS HEV Excite and Essence, the MG4 range and variants of the MG ZS.
