Automobile Desk: MG Motor has taken a big step with the aim of making access to luxury electric vehicles easier in the Indian automobile market. The company has formally launched the Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) program for its much-hyped sporty electric roadster 'Cyberster' and flagship MPV 'M9 EV'. The direct benefit of this new financing and ownership model will be available to the customers in the form of huge reduction in the initial ex-showroom price of the vehicles.
One of the major reasons behind the high cost of luxury cars is their expensive battery pack technology. To overcome this problem, MG has separated the price of car body and battery. Through this model, customers can now take the vehicle home without paying huge costs for the battery, whereas for using the battery they will have to pay a fixed fee per kilometre.
Revised prices and rental plans of Cyberster and M9 EV
As per the BaaS plans offered under MG Select retail network:
MG Cyberster: The starting BaaS price of this two-door sports car has been fixed at ₹72.49 lakh.
MG M9 EV: The starting BaaS price of this huge and luxurious MPV has been kept at ₹69.99 lakh.
The battery rental charge for both the premium models has been fixed at ₹8 per kilometer. This means that the vehicle owner will be charged the fare for his battery according to the distance he travels.
100 km/h in 3.2 seconds: Cyberster figures
MG Cyberster is designed keeping in mind the drivers who love powerful performance along with sporty looks. The aerodynamic design of this car is reminiscent of the classic MGB Roadster. The electric scissor doors found in it give it a unique identity on the roads.
Battery and Motor: It gets a powerful battery pack of 77 kWh, which powers the dual electric motor set-up.
Power Output: This engine generates tremendous power of 503.02 bhp and torque of 725 Nm.
Range and Speed: The car accelerates from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in just 3.2 seconds. When fully charged, it is capable of covering a distance of 580 kilometers.
M9 EV: Presidential seats and first-class cabin
On the other hand, the MG M9 EV is introduced as a high-end family and executive travel vehicle. The main attraction of this cabin is the comfort of the rear passengers, where special 'Presidential Seats' have been provided. These seats are equipped with features like 16-way adjustment, 8 massage modes, heating and ventilation.
Technical Specifications: It has a 90 kWh NMC battery pack, which with a single electric motor gives power of 241.65 bhp and torque of 350 Nm.
Driving Range and Charging: This MPV can run about 548 kilometers on a single charge. With the help of fast charger, it takes only 30 minutes to charge its battery from 30 to 80 percent.
Cabin Features: A 12.3-inch digital touchscreen, panoramic sunroof, 64-color ambient lighting and a 13-speaker premium music system with subwoofer and amplifier further enhance the cabin experience.
Network expansion in 14 cities of the country
To improve the delivery and service of these high-end electric vehicles, MG is expanding the scope of its exclusive 'MG Select' outlets. Currently, 15 such experience centers are being operated in 14 major cities of the country, through which the company is trying to strengthen its hold in the premium segment in the Indian market.
